PCOD

PCOS/PCOD Treatment in Hyderabad, India

PCOD or PCOS is a problem affecting the ovaries, which produce progesterone and estrogen hormones that regulate menstruation and also produce small amounts of the hormones inhibin, relaxation, and male hormones known as androgens.

Women with PCOS produce more male hormones than women with PCOD. Due to this hormone imbalance, they skip their menstrual periods and have a more difficult time getting pregnant.

There are many women with PCOD / PCOS who are unaware of it. The following symptoms affect ovulation and the ovaries:

• Ovarian cysts

• Increased levels of male hormones

• Skipped or irregular periods

It is therefore imperative to seek out an experienced specialist to handle its management. At CARE Hospitals, a team of specialists provides patients with lifestyle advice and prescribes medications for women who are experiencing common symptoms such as altruism. Under one roof, our gynecologists with decades of experience provide comprehensive care to patients, along with specialists like dieticians, psychologists, and our state-of-the-art technology.

Symptoms and signs of PCOD / PCOS

A woman may notice symptoms during her first period, while others discover symptoms after experiencing difficulties trying to conceive. PCOD problem and PCOS are characterized by the following signs and symptoms:

• Oligomenorrhea refers to irregular menstruation.

• Amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstruation.

• Menorrhagia refers to heavy menstrual bleeding.

• Hair growth on the face and body, including the back, belly, and chest

• Acne (face, chest, and upper back)

• Weight gain

• Hair loss (hair on the scalp gets thinner and falls out)

• Skin darkening (Neck, in the groin, and under the breasts)

Causes of PCOD

We are not sure exactly how PCOD affects women, but there are some factors worth considering:

• Excess insulin production: High insulin levels in the body can increase androgen production (a male hormone that females produce very little of) which interferes with ovulation.

• Excess androgen production: Excess androgen hormones produced by the ovaries can lead to acne and hirsutism (hair growth on the face and body).

• Low-grade inflammation: Women with PCOD have low-grade inflammation that causes increased androgen production, which can lead to blood vessel or heart problems.

• Hereditary: Certain genetic factors are associated with PCOD.

Diagnosis of PCOD / PCOS

An imaging study or blood test can be used to diagnose PCOD or PCOS, both of which affect body systems. Gynecologists ask about health history, eating habits, medications, vitamins, and supplements taken by the patient. These questions are based on symptoms like irregular periods, unwanted male-pattern hair growth, acne, or thinning of scalp hair.

A gynecologist may recommend the following tests to diagnose PCOD or PCOS:

• Pelvic examination: Physically examining the reproductive organs to detect masses, abnormalities, or growths.

• Blood tests: Blood tests will help diagnose hormone levels, including a fasting lipid profile (to check blood levels of cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins (HDL), triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins (LDL)), glucose tolerance tests.

• Imaging test: Ultrasound imaging is used to evaluate the size of the ovaries, the lining of the uterus, and cysts in the ovaries.

Additionally, the gynecologist may recommend other tests to determine if there are any complications. These tests may include:

• Blood pressure, glucose tolerance, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels should be monitored regularly.

• Check for anxiety and depression. 

• Checking for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Complications of PCOS / PCOD problem

When women experience PCOD or PCOS, they may wonder about the implications for their health, as elevated androgen levels can have various complications that warrant medical attention. These include:

• Irregular uterine bleeding
• Infertility or increased risk of hypertension
• Type 2 diabetes
• Preterm labor and premature birth
• Metabolic syndrome, posing risks for high blood sugar, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke
• NASH (Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis)
• Depression, often arising from unwanted hair growth and other symptoms
• Sleep apnea, particularly common in overweight women, leading to repeated pauses in breathing during the night and sleep interruptions
• Increased risk of endometrial cancer due to thickened uterine lining
• Miscarriage, indicating the spontaneous loss of a pregnancy

PCOD / PCOS Treatment

Your PCOD / PCOS treatment will target specific problems, such as irregular periods, obesity, infertility, acne, or hirsutism. The most common treatment involves a diet and exercise program and weight loss. By losing just 5 to 10 percent of your body weight, your menstrual cycle can be better regulated.

Symptoms like hair growth, acne, and metabolic disturbances will determine the treatment. These include:

• Medications can regulate the menstrual cycle by treating hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance.

• By using oral and injectable medicines, you can induce ovulation (quality and quantity).

• Fertility drugs are used to treat infertility.

• Reducing excessive hair growth.

• Treating acne and pigmentation.

• An ovarian drilling procedure is used in the case of PCOS patients who cannot respond to hormonal treatment.

Weight loss diets can be helpful for your condition. Nonetheless, some diets are more beneficial than others. Weight loss can reduce heart disease and diabetes risks, as well as improve cholesterol levels and lower insulin levels.

Women can lose weight by exercising for 20 minutes at a moderate intensity five days a week. Exercise helps to improve ovulation and insulin levels as well as weight loss.

The best treatment for PCOD and PCOS will include on-time diagnosis, along with the right treatment modalities in order to overcome the symptoms. To treat hormonal imbalance and conditions related to it, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is equally important.

The treatment for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) typically involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, medications, and, in some cases, surgical interventions. It's important to note that the approach may vary based on individual symptoms and goals. Here are common treatments for PCOS:

Lifestyle Changes:

• Dietary Modifications: Adopting a balanced and nutritious diet can help manage weight and improve insulin sensitivity. A focus on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins is often recommended.
• Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can assist in weight management and enhance insulin sensitivity. Both aerobic exercises and strength training may be beneficial.

Medications:

• Birth Control Pills: Oral contraceptives are often prescribed to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, and manage symptoms such as acne and hirsutism (excessive hair growth).
• Anti-Androgen Medications: Medications like spironolactone may be prescribed to counter the effects of elevated androgens, addressing symptoms like acne and unwanted hair growth.
• Metformin: This medication is commonly used to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate menstrual cycles, particularly in cases where insulin resistance is a factor.

Fertility Treatments:

• Clomiphene Citrate: This medication may be prescribed to induce ovulation in women trying to conceive.
• Letrozole: Another option for inducing ovulation, especially in women with infertility associated with PCOS.
• Weight Management:
• Weight Loss: For overweight individuals with PCOS, losing weight through a combination of diet and exercise can significantly improve symptoms and restore hormonal balance.

Surgical Interventions:

• Ovulation Induction Procedures: In cases where medications alone are not effective, assisted reproductive technologies (such as in vitro fertilization) may be considered.
• Ovarian Drilling: A surgical procedure where small holes are made in the ovaries to stimulate regular ovulation. This is less commonly used due to the availability of effective medications.

Management of Specific Symptoms:

• Topical Treatments: For managing acne or hirsutism, topical treatments or hair removal methods may be recommended.
• Psychotherapy: In cases where emotional well-being is affected, counseling or psychotherapy may be beneficial.

It's crucial for individuals with PCOS to work closely with healthcare professionals to tailor a treatment plan that addresses their specific symptoms, concerns, and reproductive goals. Regular monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan may be necessary over time.