Polycystic Ovarian Disease is a hormonal disorder in which women's ovaries produce immature or partially mature eggs. These eggs are not released from the ovaries and develop into cysts. These cysts grow larger daily, leading to increased secretion of male hormones called androgens, which disrupt the menstrual cycle.

Have You Ever Wondered What PCOD Is Then?

PCOD is a metabolic disorder that leads to increased androgen production, resulting in anovulation, in which the ovaries do not release eggs at all. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is an endocrine system disorder, while PCOD is a condition developed by an imbalance of hormones.

Prevalence 

It is increasingly found nowadays among women due to lifestyle and dietary changes. It has been estimated that about 1 in every 10 women is affected by PCOD.

Causes of PCOD 

Although the exact cause of PCOD remains unknown, the following are some significant factors that could cause increased androgen production :

• Insulin level: The excess insulin level in the body leads to increased androgen production, making ovulation difficult. Obesity is one common cause of insulin resistance and is one primary factor leading to PCOD.
• Heredity: Certain genetic correlations have been found in women suffering from PCOD, and it could have a family history.
• Low-grade Inflammation: Women with chronic low-grade inflammation tend to have a higher tendency to develop PCOD than other women.

Signs and Symptoms of PCOD

• Irregular menses.
• Abnormal hair growth (Hirsutism).
• Sudden weight gain and trouble in losing it.
• Acne.
• Dark patches of skin in the folds of the neck, groin, and under the breasts (acanthosis nigricans).
• Hair fall and hair thinning.
• Difficulty in conceiving.
• Skin tags found on armpits and neck.

PCOD Can Lead to Complications Like

1. Infertility.
2. Gestational diabetes.
3. Endometrial cancer.
4. Pregnancy-induced hypertension.
5. Metabolic syndrome.
6. Depression and anxiety.
7. Abnormal uterine bleeding.

Diagnosis

PCOD is diagnosed with the help of

• Symptom history.
• Physical examination, including a pelvic exam.
• Blood tests like glucose tolerance, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.
• Ultrasound examination also reveals PCOD, which is seen as cysts in the ovaries and thickening of the uterus's lining.

Treatment for PCOD 

Treatment for PCOD depends mainly on the symptoms and severity of the cysts. Certain medications like Birth control pills, which have a combination of estrogen and progestin, help in decreasing androgen production and lead to the regulation of hormones, thus lowering the risk of complications.

In some cases, progestin therapy is advised to bring your menses to a regular cycle and protect you against endometrial cancer. But remember, never begin any medication without consulting your doctor.

Management of PCOD 

First and foremost, let’s know how diet plays an important role in managing PCOD.

Foods to Avoid

Since PCOD patients are insulin-resistant, their diet is more or less similar to that of diabetic patients.

• Refined and processed foods, especially refined carbohydrates like white rice, maida, and pastry items like cakes, buns, and white bread.
• Fried foods lead to weight gain and obesity.
• Sugary drinks such as sodas and packed juices add calories to your body rather than doing any good, so it is best to avoid them.
• Processed meat.
• Dairy products like milk, curd, cheese, and yogurt should be consumed in moderation.
• Sweets and white sugar.

Foods to Eat 

Always remember that you need to eat food with a low glycemic index since it takes more time to digest and does not spike your insulin level.

• Low GI foods include whole grains, nuts, legumes, fruits, and non-starchy vegetables.
• Turmeric, berries, salmon, fish, and green leafy vegetables are among foods rich in anti-inflammatory properties.
• Organic brown eggs, chia seeds, flax seeds, and gooseberries.
• Try to eat your meals regularly and develop the habit of splitting them instead of eating them all at once.