What is PCOD ?
PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) is a medical condition in women, where the ovaries produce multiple immature eggs which, over time, become cysts on the ovaries.
Ovaries are the reproductive organs of a female which control the menstrual cycle and the production of hormones like estrogen, progesterone, inhibin, relaxin etc. The accumulation of the eggs swells the ovary and makes it release large quantities of male hormone thus causing infertility.
PCOD is a hormonal condition that affects approximately 5- 10% of women in their childbearing ages (12 to 45-years). While the prevalence of PCOD differs, it affects around 9% to 22% of Indian women. The numbers are about 2% to 7% in China and Sri Lanka
There is no set ‘cure’ as such for PCOD, but one of the best ways to manage it is by introducing changes in your lifestyle (after having consulted professionals, of course: your gynecologist, an endocrinologist and a dietician, preferably). Exercising and maintaining a healthy diet (low on sugars and carbohydrates, high on protein and fiber) are the most effective ways to get your PCOD under control. This also cuts out some of the weight gain, which is very helpful, as even a 5% reduction in weight eases treatment considerably.
Depending on the case, a person may be given medication to help balance their hormones. Some cases even require Second-line therapy - laparoscopic surgery, ovarian drilling, aromatase inhibitors, to name a few.
