In the run of this modern life, rushing here and there, PCOD is nowadays a more frequent occurrence of a disease, provoked by stress, a way of life and a lack of balance of the hormones, which affects the health of women. As well, it becomes one of those disabled conditions with many misconceptions attached.
It is at Ganga Laxmi IVF that we believe awareness is the beginning of wellness. This blog tries to explain PCOD in a very simple, straightforward, and simple way. Therefore, if you are newly diagnosed with it, or even if you suspect having it or are interested in finding out about the disease, this guide is for you.
What Is Polycystic Ovary Disorder?
PCOD is a hormonal disorder that targets the reproductive years in women. The condition leads to a hormonal imbalance that prevents the ovary from performing its duties, for example, ovulation (release of the egg). The ovaries become enlarged with the development of several little fluid-enclosed sacs or cysts.
These cysts are the immature eggs that do not get out of the ovulation cycle. Although poly sounds scary, the existence of contents of a cyst only adds up to being one part of the name and adds broad-based hormone imbalance.
PCOD vs. PCOS: What’s the Difference?
Perhaps you have heard about PCOS or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Even though the two terms may be used interchangeably, they slightly differ.
- PCOD is, rather, a disorder (a more representative term) and may be more frequently addressed by changes in lifestyle.
- PCOS, to the contrary, is considered to be worse and is perceived as a true syndrome that is usually treated with medication. This might be hormone therapy or fertility treatment.
A patient-centric approach is adopted in treating both these conditions at Ganga Laxmi IVF in order to create a synchronized treatment plan strategizing on general health and long-term fertility.
What Causes PCOD?
The cause of PCOD is not clearly understood, though. However, there are known causes:
- Hormonal Imbalance: Typically, women with PCOD report a higher level of androgens (male-type hormones) interfering with the process of ovulation.
- Genetics: PCOD seems to cluster in families. Consequently, if your mother or sister has PCOD, your chances of developing it are higher.
- Insulin Resistance: For many, PCOD comes with insulin resistance, i.e., their bodies fail to use insulin efficiently and are very much in danger of weight gain and type 2 diabetes.
- Lifestyle Factors: Bad diet, exercising rarely (or not at all), and high-stress levels can continue to worsen hormonal imbalance and contribute to the manifestations of PCOD.
Common Symptoms of PCOD
PCOD has a wide range of features, and not all women exhibit all of its common symptoms. The following are some very common clinical findings:
- Irregular menstruation and missed periods
- Excess hair growth on the face and body (hirsutism)
- Severe acne and oily skin
- Weight gain, especially centred around the abdomen
- Thinning of hair and male pattern baldness
- Inability to conceive (infertility)
- Mood swings, anxiety, depression
- Darkening of skin, especially around the neck and underarms
These symptoms can be evaluated in terms of physical health and emotional well-being. Early diagnosis and care are, therefore, necessary.
How Do I Get a Diagnosis for PCOD?
We at Ganga Laxmi IVF practice a thorough diagnostic protocol for the patient with PCOD:
1) Medical History & Review of Symptoms
Here, we find out all the relevant information, like menstrual cycle, symptoms, family history, and general health condition.
2) Physical Examination
This is to see if there are signs suggestive of excessive hair growth, acne, and distribution of body weight.
3) Ultrasound
Pelvic ultrasound helps us to visualize the ovaries and check for cysts.
4) Blood tests
Tests are done for hormone levels, insulin resistance, thyroid function, and cholesterol levels. With a real diagnosis lies the effective treatment. We would take much time to make sure that we overlooked nothing.
Can PCOD Be Cured?
PCOD cannot be properly cured, but with timely interventions, it can be controlled effectively. The first-line treatment is control of symptoms and reduction of the potential health risks, such as diabetes, heart disease, and infertility.
In Ganga Laxmi IVF, our treatment is highly individualised and it is based on the woman’s unique condition, lifestyle and reproductive matters.
Treatment Options for PCOD
Lifestyle Changes
- Diet: Good food behaviors, such as low sugar and high fibre are helpful in balancing the insulin levels.
- Exercise: Physical exercises that are done regularly aid in weight loss and the balancing of hormones.
- Stress Management: By improving emotional health, yoga, meditation, and counselling are helpful.
These changes in lifestyle could in themselves have an improvement on the level of symptoms in many women.
Medications
- The combined oral contraceptive pill regulates periods and reduces androgens.
- Metformin for insulin resistance.
- Anti-androgens are used to treat unwanted hair growth and acne.
- Fertility drugs like Clomiphene or Letrozole, if conception is desired.
Fertility Treatments
Advanced treatment options like Ovulation Induction, IUI, and IVF are recommended at our clinic when lifestyle interventions and medication therapy have failed to produce success in conception. We have the best technology and compassionate specialists.
Long-Term Health Risks of PCOD
If left untreated, PCOD can lead to several long-term complications:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Endometrial cancer
- Sleep apnea
- Depression and anxiety
This makes regular follow-ups and lifestyle management crucial, not just for fertility, but for overall health and well-being.
PCOD and Mental Health: An Overlooked Link
The emotional impact of PCOD is often underestimated. Many women struggle with:
- Low self-esteem due to weight gain or skin issues
- Anxiety or depression related to infertility
- Body image concerns
At Ganga Laxmi IVF, we put an emphasis on mental wellness as a part of PCOD care plans. You will have the counselors and support services, who will be there to guide you through the emotional problems that sometimes manifest with the condition.
Why Ganga Laxmi IVF for Treatment of PCOD?
Our centre is not simply a centre to treat symptoms but one that initiates balance, confidence and hope.
What makes us unique:
Whether it is symptom management or you are ready to plan for pregnancy, we are ready to help in each step.
Conclusion
PCOS is not a small hormone imbalance; it is a chronic disease that is going to affect nearly all areas of a woman’s health. However, there is the right information, support, and treatment for it to be pretty well controlled.
At Ganga Laxmi IVF, we aim at helping women understand their bodies so that they can live healthier and more productive lives. If you or your loved one is fighting with PCOD, do not postpone; contact us today so that you can start the healing process.