What are the Early Signs of PCOD & What Should One Look For?
With so many people coming forward with their PCOD stories, one may be familiar with this term. However, what is PCOD exactly? We will learn everything there is to know about polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOD) in this blog, including early symptoms to be aware of. This comprehensive blog includes valuable insights from expert gynaecologist Dr. Chaitali Mahajan Trivedi. She is a leading gynaecologist offering the most effective PCOD treatment in Mumbai. Let’s start with learning what PCOD is.
What is PCOD?
One prevalent disorder that impairs the function of the ovaries is PCOD. While the precise prevalence of PCOD is unknown, estimates suggest that one in ten persons may be affected (if they have ovaries, that is!). On the other hand, almost 50% of individuals might not exhibit any symptoms.
Understanding the roles that a healthy ovary plays is essential to understanding PCOD. Here is a quick refresher for everyone:
A component of the reproductive system is the ovaries.
These are two grape-sized, almond-shaped organs on either side of the uterus or womb. They serve the following two purposes:
to undergo ovulation, the process of developing and releasing an egg,
to release the hormones progesterone and estrogen. These control the menstrual cycle and fertility, or the ability to make babies! Another androgen/sex hormone produced in modest amounts by the ovaries is testosterone.
The expansion of the reproductive organs, the distribution of fat (hips, legs, and breasts because of oestrogen), and the development of the breasts are all primarily caused by this hormone.
Progesterone thickens the lining of the uterus, preparing the body for pregnancy. The body will tell the womb to release its lining if the egg is not fertilized, a process known as menstruation.
Why does Polycystic Ovarian Disease, or PCOD, Occur?
There is evidence to show that PCOD may run in families even though its exact cause is unknown. We do know that aberrant hormone levels are frequently present in PCOD patients.
Patients with PCOD often have insulin resistance. Blood sugar is regulated by insulin. Their bodies will need to produce more insulin to overcome this. Furthermore, it has been noted that PCOD patients have altered testosterone levels.
Afterward, various symptoms may result from these changed hormone levels, which we have discussed in more detail below.
What Should one watch out for regarding the Early Indicators of PCOD?
Individual differences may exist in the intensity of PCOD symptoms. Some people encounter every indication, while others just a few. It’s understood that it’s not very helpful in terms of quantifying!
Among the symptoms of PCOD are:
pelvic discomfort, sporadic or nonexistent periods
challenges getting pregnant (caused by irregular or absent ovulation, the process by which the egg is produced and released)
weight increase (resulting from insulin resistance)
hair loss and thinning on the head
greasy skin or acne
hirsutism, or excessive hair growth, is typically seen on the face, chest, back, or buttocks
depression and anxiety
Although weight gain may indicate polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOD), being overweight can, regrettably, also exacerbate insulin resistance. Consequently, the signs and symptoms of PCOD may worsen.
How can PCOD be Treated?
There are surgical as well as non-surgical treatment options available for PCOD. Let’s find out more about it:
Non-surgical Options
Standard Treatments
Oral Contraceptives
In addition to treating acne and hirsutism, birth control tablets, injections, patches, intrauterine devices, and vaginal rings can be used to control the menstrual cycle. Progestin and estrogen hormones found in these contraceptives aid in restoring normal hormone levels. They even shield the patient from endometrial cancer in addition to assisting with ovulation regulation. This course of action is only advised if the patient has no intention of getting pregnant.
Mild Oral Antibiotics
These can aid in PCOD/PCOS acne treatment.
Anti-Androgens
Among these are medications that help lessen excessive hair growth or scalp hair loss by stopping the effects of androgens.
Infertility Treatments
Certain medications, like oral estrogen (clomiphene), drugs used to treat breast cancer, insulin-resistant type 2 diabetes treatments, and injectable hormone medications like gonadotropins, can aid in the patient’s ability to ovulate. When taking medicine doesn’t work, and a woman with PCOD/PCOS wants to get pregnant, she may consider in-vitro fertilization (IVF).
Lifestyle Alterations
Nutrition
Reducing the amount of carbohydrates in the patient’s diet is necessary to positively impact insulin levels. A low-glycemic index diet is preferred over a standard weight-loss diet, with the majority of carbohydrates coming from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Managing Weight
Reducing body weight can potentially lower insulin and testosterone levels and trigger ovulation again. To help them achieve their weight loss objectives, patients must actively engage in weight loss programs and schedule frequent visits with dieticians. Regular exercise can lower blood sugar and cholesterol, help prevent diabetes, and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. It can also help maintain a healthy weight.
Surgical Treatment
Laparoscopic Ovarian Drilling. This is an infrequent surgical method used to induce ovulation in women with PCOD/PCOS. It is only used after infertility treatments or lifestyle modifications have failed.
To introduce a small tube to inflate the belly during ovarian drilling, the surgeon first creates a little incision at the belly button. A laparoscope, a viewing instrument, is inserted into the abdomen by the surgeon once the belly is full of air to prevent internal organ injury. This makes it easier for the surgeon to see the ovarian cysts up close. Finally, the surgeon inserts surgical instruments to drill or puncture the cysts in the ovarian tissues associated with elevated androgen levels through the same incision or additional tiny incisions made in the pelvic area. For this, lasers or electrocautery can be utilized.
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Consult a Renowned Gynaecologist in Mumbai for PCOD Treatment
PCOD is manageable; however, patients must constantly follow doctor-recommended treatment. If the recommendations are continuously followed, the PCOD or PCOS ailment will be completely eradicated from the body before one knows it. See a gynaecologist for additional guidance and information; they can offer more detailed information on effective PCOD treatment. Dr. Chaitali Mahajan Trivedi is available to consult at Nanavati Super Speciality Hospital.
With over 24 years of experience, the top gynaecologist in Mumbai is also a cosmetic gynaecological surgeon with competence in laparoscopic surgery (OB/GYN). She aims to assist her patients with appropriate treatments to address their worries and counseling on issues related to sexual self-esteem and confidence. See Dr. Chaitali Mahajan Trivedit at Nanavati Super Speciality for additional information.