Polycystic Ovary Disease (PCOD) is a medical disorder in which a woman’s ovaries frequently generate immature or partially mature eggs, which eventually develop into ovarian cysts. As a result, the ovaries enlarge and release a lot of androgens, which can lead to infertility, irregular menstrual periods, hair loss, and unnatural weight gain. A recent study found that approximately 1 in 5 Indian women suffer from PCOD. PCOD is also called Stein-Leventhal syndrome.

What are the symptoms of PCOD?

PCOD signs and symptoms typically begin around the time of the first menstrual period in puberty. Or it can develop at later stages. For instance, excessive weight gain later in life can lead to PCOD development. Many women are completely unaware that they have PCOD.

Some of the common symptoms are:

• Periods that are irregular, missing, or lengthy

• Heavy menstrual bleeding

• Acne

• Weight gain

• excessive body and facial hair growth

• Hair thinning

• Darkening of the skin

• Depression

• Headaches

• Increased androgens

• Difficulty conceiving

What are the causes of PCOD?

Although the exact cause of PCOS in women is unknown, the following are some key contributing factors:

1. Family history:

Women with PCOD have specific genetic correlations related to heredity.

1. Excess insulin production:

The body may produce more androgen, a male hormone that women have very little of, which might interfere with ovulation. The ovaries produce excessive amounts of androgen hormones, which can cause hirsutism and acne (hair growth on the face and body)

1. Low-grade inflammation:

According to a new study, women with PCOD have low-grade inflammation that increases androgen production and can result in problems with the heart or blood arteries.

Complications due to PCOD:

PCOD can lead to complications like:

• Infertility

• Diabetes

• Heart Diseases

• Depression

• Endometrial Cancer

How can it be treated?

1. Most patients are advised to lose weight to counteract PCOD’s symptoms. Healthy eating habits and regular exercise can help with the disease.

2. PCOD is also treated with hormone therapy and birth control tablets.

3. While there are several lifestyle recommendations for PCOD sufferers, you are advised to stick to a low-fat, high-carb diet.

4. One of the naturally occurring remedies for PCOD treatment is aloe vera.

5. Regular exercise keeps you in shape. You can work out in any way you like. Regular walking is another healthy physical activity.