About PCOD

Polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) also known as polycystic ovarian syndrome is a women's medical condition characterized by irregular or no menstrual periods, obesity and excessive growth of hair. In polycystic ovarian disease the ovaries produce more follicles than normal, however the follicles do not mature into eggs, hence leading to abnormal menstrual periods in women. The name polycystic ovaries generally means enlarged ovaries which are produced from the cysts present on the follicles. According to a study conducted by Harvard Medical School, almost 5 percent of women worldwide suffer from PCOD at some stage of their lives. Early diagnoses and treatment is essential. Left untreated, PCOD can lead to heart disease and diabetes.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Excess insulin is thought to be one of the prime causes of PCOD. Excess insulin stimulates the ovaries to produce an increased amount of the male hormones called androgens, which stimulate the development of masculine characteristics. Increased androgen levels in women may lead to infertility and ultimately PCOD.

Symptoms of PCOD

• The most common symptoms include obesity, oily skin, irregular menstrual cycle, increased blood pressure, development of pre-diabetes (precursor of diabetes) or type 2 diabetes, loss of fertility, and abnormal and increased hair growth all over the body.
  In severe cases a medical condition known as Acanthosis nigricans is also associated with polycystic ovarian disorder. Acanthosis nigricans is a medical condition that is characterized by darkened and velvet-like skin in folds of skin such as the neck, groin and armpits.

Diagnostic Tests

• Diagnosis and detection of polycystic ovarian disease is based on a complete physical exam, ultrasound and blood tests. Blood tests check the levels of an array of hormones such as follicle stimulating hormone (FSH, LH), testosterone and many others.
  FSH and LH play an important role in women's bodies. They stimulate the ovaries to produce progesterone and estrogen. However in case of PCOS the pituitary gland fails to produce the hormones [FSH, LH], hence leading to a condition where there is no or less production of progesterone and estrogen, hence resulting in no or abnormal menstrual periods.

Treatment Methods

• Treatment methods are based on controlling symptoms associated with PCOD such infertility, hair growth and abnormal menstrual cycle. Oral contraceptives containing synthetic estrogen and progesterone are prescribed to decrease androgen production. Doctors prescribe drugs such as Vaniqa, which is a cream that helps reduce hair growth on the face.

Prevention/Solution

• Preventive measures such as regular exercise, weight reduction and a balanced, low-fat diet are thought to help in regulating insulin levels in the body and thus in keeping PCOD in check.