Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or Polycystic Ovarian Disease is a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. PCOD or PCOS generally strikes at an early age. A woman with PCOD may suffer infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods. In such a condition the ovaries develop numerous small collections of fluid commonly called follicles which then prevent the reproductive system from regularly releasing eggs. It also causes excess male hormone (androgen) levels in the female body.
Causes
The cause of PCOD or PCOS is still unknown. Some factors that may be responsible for causing PCOD are as follows:-
- Excess insulin. The pancreas produces a hormone in the body called insulin. These hormones allow cells to use sugar, which is the body’s primary energy supply. The blood sugar levels rise, when the cells become resistant to the action of insulin, thus producing more insulin. This causes difficulties with ovulation because the excess insulin might increase androgen production (a male hormone in the body).
- Low-grade inflammation. Low-grade inflammation is generally used to describe white blood cells and the production of substances by WBCs to fight infections. This low-grade inflammation stimulates polycystic ovaries to produce androgens, resulting in heart and blood vessel problems.
- Researchers say that there might be some genes linked to PCOS or PCOD.
- Excess androgen. The ovaries in the female body start producing abnormally high levels of androgen, resulting in acne.
Symptoms of PCOD
- Irregular periods called amenorrhea
- Heavy bleeding called Menorrhagia
- Facial hair growth is known as hirsutism
- The excess peripheral androgen leads to acne problems that cannot be treated by the usual treatments.
- Weight gain around the waist area.
- Darkening of the skin around the neck called Acanthosis nigricans
- Infertility
- Severe Headaches
Solutions
The PCOD solution consists of changes in daily routine along with proper medications. Here are some of the solutions that can help you fighting with the bad effects caused by PCOD:
- Regular exercises
- Take proper medicines to treat insulin resistance power. This would balance hormones, correcting the menstrual cycles.
- Go for skin treatments for your acne, dark skin, and unusual hair growth.
- Follow a proper diet and add nutritious food supplements to your food.
- In some cases, you may require Second-line therapy. For example-Aromatase inhibitors, laparoscopic surgery, or ovarian drilling.
- Take a balanced protein in your diet.
- Cut out coffee as caffeine changes the estrogen levels and hormone behavior.
Thus, change your daily routine, If you want to treat PCOD or PCOS. You will get the results once you change your lifestyle. It is always better to consult the gynecologist if you are facing major health problems.
