PCOD - Present Cry Of The ‘SHE’ Population!

Got your periods twice this month? Worried about irregular and prolonged menstrual cycles? Chances are that you have polycystic ovary disorder.
 
PCOD: Polycystic Ovary Disease is among the most common complaints gynaecologists get. Reports have stated that almost 10% of the women in the world are suffering from PCOD. What is even more concerning is that every third patient diagnosed with PCOD is a teenager. If you have irregular/infrequent periods, you might be the one. Compared to PCOD, women with PCOD produce more male hormones, and this hormone imbalance leads to infrequent/irregular menstrual cycles and causes complexities in pregnancy.
Here we will discuss some common symptoms, causes, and dietary plans for PCOD patients.

PCOD – Present Cry Of The ‘SHE’ Population!

In today’s scenario, as soon as a woman enters reproductive age (13 and above), she becomes prone to PCOD, especially if any family member has a history of PCOD. The severity of polycystic ovary disease might vary for different age groups. For instance, a teenager with PCOD might suffer from an irregular menstruation cycle or a fuller body, whereas a grown woman can suffer infertility.
Note:  If you are gaining weight excessively and can’t get rid of it, it might be in your best interest to consult a gynaecologist.

What Causes PCOD – A Threat For ‘SHE’?

To date, the exact cause of PCOD is unknown. Yet experts believe that there are certain factors that promote this disorder.

Mentioned below are some common causes of PCOD:

  • High Insulin – The primary energy source for the human body is sugar, and the pancreas produces insulin, allowing cells to use it. When the cells start resisting the action of insulin, naturally, the pancreas increases the production of insulin. Further, excessive insulin can escalate androgen production, causing difficulty with ovulation, hence PCOD.
  • Genetics – The most common belief among experts is that genetics play a significant role in causing PCOD. There are many studies that support this belief to an extent. Therefore, if your sister, mother, or any other blood relative is suffering from PCOD, you might have a higher chance of suffering from it.

Symptoms And Consequences of Polycystic Ovary Disorder

PCOD is a disease with some apparent symptoms. Skipped, absent, and prolonged menstrual cycles are perhaps the most obvious symptoms of PCOD. However, there are times when there is no symptom at all, especially with young girls.

  • Irregular menses – This is a common symptom found in women of all ages. You can also experience heavy blood loss and clots.  
  • Infertility – It is mostly diagnosed in grown women and primarily due to the increased production of male hormones in their bodies.

Besides unpredictable and uncontrollable hormonal changes, this disorder can trigger many other conditions, as mentioned below.

  • Hair Loss or male pattern baldness
  • Obesity
  • Excessive hair growth
  • Acne 
  • Depression
  • Infertility
  • Sleep disorder
  • Pigmentation and darkening of the skin

So far, you would have come to know that PCOD is a fairly common disorder, yet it does not have any exact cure.

Changes In Lifestyle of PCOD Patients

If you are diagnosed with PCOD, you can control your symptoms with certain lifestyle changes. No, it does not mean that you cannot have your favourite meal, but just be a bit cautious of what you eat, wear, and do. 

When the body goes through insulin resistance, the percentage of sex hormone decreases, resulting in an increased amount of free testosterone. So if you don’t want to worsen your scenario, just cut on excessive insulin. Increasing the amount of fibre in your diet can do wonders in combating insulin resistance.

In fact, obesity is also one of the outcomes of insulin resistance. In addition to it, obesity decreases the production of insulin sensitising compounds. Therefore, it is advised to try weight reduction that can decrease the level of free androgen and insulin levels, resulting in the spontaneous resumption of menses. Additionally, maintaining a fibre-rich diet and minimising glucose and excess fat can stimulate the action of insulin, thereby reducing insulin resistance.

Diet To Follow For PCOD

A diet rich in fibre and green vegetables is the most suitable for PCOD patients. Your diet can include: –
  • Unprocessed foods
  • Whole grains
  • Nuts
  • Legumes
  • Dark red fruits (blueberries, blackberries, cherries, red grapes)
Try avoiding the following food items:  
  • Pastries and white bread
  • Fried foods
  • Sugary beverages
  • Processed meats
  • Solid fats
  • Excess red meat
In today’s world, PCOD is a common disorder, so you must consult with the best in the industry. Assam Hospital can be the leading solution for PCOD patients. We have boarded the best gynaecologists that will walk you through a simple process to combat the cry of the ‘she’ population.