What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a set of symptoms caused by a problem with a woman’s hormones. It affects the ovaries. These are the small organs that store a woman’s eggs. But it can also affect the rest of the body. PCOS is a very common condition in women of childbearing age. In some cases, it can lead to serious health issues if not treated.

Ovulation happens when a mature egg is released from an ovary. This happens so it can be fertilized by a male sperm. If the egg is not fertilized, it is sent out of the body during your period.

In some cases, a woman doesn’t make enough of the hormones needed to ovulate. When ovulation doesn’t happen, the ovaries can develop many small fluid-filled sacs (cysts). These cysts make hormones called androgens. Androgens are a type of hormone normally found in abundance in men, but women normally have them in smaller amounts. Women with PCOS often have high levels of androgens. This can cause more problems with a woman’s menstrual cycle. And it can cause many of the symptoms of PCOS.

Treatment for PCOS is often done with medicine. This can’t cure PCOS, but it helps reduce symptoms and prevent some health problems.

What is Polycystic Ovary Disorder (PCOD)?

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.

In this condition, the hormones of a woman go out of balance which creates various symptoms, including the absence of ovulation, irregular menstrual cycle, difficulty conceiving, weight gain, acne, and hirsutism. PCOD, also known as PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome), if left untreated, can lead to further health complications, like diabetes, obesity, heart diseases, and high cholesterol.

Common Symptoms of PCOD/PCOS

PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) often starts showing symptoms around the time of the first menstrual cycle during puberty, but it can also develop later, especially with weight gain over the years.

Common signs of PCOD include:

• Increased androgen levels: High levels of male hormones can lead to excess facial and body hair, as well as male-pattern baldness.
• Irregular periods: You may experience irregular or delayed periods due to problems with egg maturation.
• Difficulty getting pregnant: Hormonal imbalances can prevent eggs from maturing and being released, which can affect ovulation and make it harder to conceive. Many women are diagnosed with PCOD when they seek help for difficulty getting pregnant.
• Hair loss or thinning: Excess male hormones can cause hair to thin or fall out.
• Acne: Hormonal imbalances may lead to acne on the skin.
• Weight gain: Many women with PCOD experience weight gain or have difficulty losing weight.

How PCOD is Diagnosed?

There is no single test to definitively diagnose PCOD (Polycystic Ovary Disease). However, your doctor will assess your medical history and conduct a physical exam. Based on these, they may recommend the following tests:

• Pelvic Examination: To check for any physical signs of PCOD.
• Blood Tests: To measure hormone levels, which may be irregular in PCOD.
• Ultrasound: To examine the ovaries and uterus for typical signs of PCOD, such as cysts or thickened ovarian walls.

If diagnosed with PCOD, your doctor will likely suggest regular follow-up visits to monitor your condition.