Irregular Menstrual Cycle
An irregular menstrual cycle is one of the major signs of PCOD. It results in delayed or absent periods. One dealing with PCOD can experience a longer duration of the menstrual cycle.
For instance, the interval between periods is 35 days after 20 days, then 16 days. In addition, one can experience bleeding or spotting between subsequent periods.
Infertility
Approximately two out of ten ladies are having trouble conceiving because of the underlying PCOD. PCOD is one of the main reasons for female infertility. High amounts of androgen hormones, such as testosterone, are often associated with PCOD. The ovaries cannot release an egg (ovulation) when there is excess testosterone. PCOD may be the reason for infertility if a woman has been attempting to conceive for 12 months (or six months if she is older than 35) but failing to do so. For those with PCOD, the combination of irregular ovulation and hormone imbalances can make conception challenging.
Hirsutism
An additional growth of coarse or black hair on the face or body is called Hirsutism. The excessive growth of unwanted hair indicates POCD is underlying. The reason for Hirsutism is that the male sex androgen hormone dominates the female body. While most women don’t create much androgen, those who have PCOD frequently do. PCOD-related hirsutism might appear on the upper lip, cheeks, chin, inner thighs, upper arms, lower tummy, breasts, and lower back. The upper back, upper abdomen, and chest may be affected less frequently.
Acne & Pimple
Elevated testosterone levels can also cause acne and greasy skin. Usually the Face, Back, and Neck, can be affected by oily skin. Acne and oily skin are related and can be challenging to deal with. The good news is that medication, dietary modifications, supplements, and lifestyle adjustments can all be helpful.
Weight Gain
About 38–88% of women who have PCOD also struggle with weight gain. For women, gaining more weight can be emotionally and physically taxing. It may be more challenging to lose weight if you have PCOD, and being overweight can exacerbate PCOD symptoms. It will raise your chance of developing further health issues.
Dark Patches on the Skin
Dark, velvety skin patches that appear on your neck, groin, or under your arm, also known as Acanthosis Nigricans. It is also a sign of PCOD. Those with darker skin have PCOD more frequently. If the female has PCOD, it may be possible to determine whether they are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Inconsistent insulin levels and a higher BMI could cause Acanthosis Nigricans.
Ovulatory Dysfunction
Ovulatory dysfunction is an inability to release a healthy egg on time. Ideally, a healthy woman has 4 days (12th- 16th of the menstrual cycle) as the peak time to get pregnant. But, irregular menstrual cycles and cystic or immature eggs caused by PCOD make ovulatory dysfunctioning. As a result, ovulation window gets changed and cystic or immature egg’s leads to the female infertility,
Mood Swing
An underlying issue of PCOD might impact a person’s confidence and mood. This is particularly true if you exhibit acne, weight gain, or excessive hair growth. PCOD can also bring on severe mental health problems like anxiety, sadness, and eating disorders. It can be a severely disabling illness, both mentally and physically. It’s crucial to discuss any mood-related issues with your doctor. This illness may result in sleepless nights.
Insulin Resistance
Females with PCOD frequently have insulin resistance. It means cells in the body become more resistant to insulin. Due to the PCOD, the body produces more insulin. Excessive production of insulin leads to issues of weight gain and an overproduction of testosterone by the ovaries, which exacerbates symptoms.
Pelvic Pain
Another uncommon sign of PCOD is pelvic pain. Polycystic Ovarian Cysts can result from PCOD and can hurt the pelvic region. A steady ache or a sudden jolt in the lower abdomen may be the sensation associated with pelvic pain caused by ovarian cysts. The discomfort could be constant or sporadic. Ovulation, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids are just a few of the several conditions that can cause pelvic pain. For an accurate assessment of any pelvic pain, consultation with the gynaecologist is advised.
Diagnosis of PCOD and Treatments
A combination of physical examination, blood tests, imaging scans, and medical history assessment is usually used to diagnose PCOD. Below is a summary of popular PCOD diagnostic process:
- Medical History and Physical Examination: During the examination, your doctor will inquire about your weight fluctuations, hirsutism, irregular periods, and other symptoms. A physical exam will also be performed to look for outward indicators of insulin resistance, such as skin tags, acne, and excessive hair growth.
- Blood Testing: Testosterone, insulin, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone levels can all be determined by blood testing. The LH-to-FSH ratio is frequently high in PCOD, as are elevated levels of LH and testosterone. Blood tests, including those that measure insulin and fasting glucose, can also determine insulin resistance.
- Ultrasound: To see the ovaries and see if there are any numerous little cysts (follicles) on them, a transvaginal ultrasound may be carried out. Ovarian cysts are generally associated with PCOD, although they are not a guarantee of the illness; in fact, not all PCOD-affected women will have them.
PCOD Treatments
With the help of lifestyle change and the proper medical guidance, a female can live a healthy life and conceive successfully. Regarding this, PCOD treatments include-
- Physical Exercise
- Rich food diet
- Hormone Balancing Medications
- Fertility Treatment.
Conclusion
PCOD is a disease of the female ovaries. It leads to the cystic and immature release of eggs for the ovaries. It is one of the major causes of infertility, unwanted facial hair growth, weight gain and several more health issues. Along with it shows signs and symptoms, PCOD has tests and effective treatments. With the help of blood tests and ultrasound, one can learn about the underlying Polycystic Ovarian Disease.
To get the proper PCOD treatment, one can visit the nearest gynaecologist or Dr. Chaitali Mahajan Trivedi. She is a leading gynaecologist in Mumbai and offers treatment for PCOD and infertility issues caused by the condition. You can visit Nanavati Super Speciality Hospital to consult with the doctor and book an appointment with Dr. Chaitali Mahajan Trivedi today.
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