Dr. Sandhya Shah is a highly skilled and experienced PCOS and PCOD doctor in Mumbai. She has been in the medical field for over 25 years, honing her skills through extensive research and experience. She is passionate about helping her patients reach their full potential and committed to providing the highest possible experience for them.
Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD), is also referred to as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), is a chronic and disturbing hormonal disorder found in women in their reproductive age, i.e., 18-45 years. Females with PCOS / PCOD may have increased male hormones, irregular periods, and multiple small cysts or fluid-filled sacs in one or both ovaries.
The exact cause for PCOS disorder or PCOD is unclear. It can be attributed to the disturbed hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, genetic and environmental factors like lifestyle and dietary habits.
An environmental and genetic combination causes polycystic ovary syndrome. Physical inactivity, obesity, and a family history of the condition may also contribute to it. Diagnosis is based on the following three findings: ovarian cysts, no ovulation and high androgen levels. On ultrasound, cysts can be seen. Hypothyroidism, hyperplasia, and hyperprolactinemia are a few other conditions that produce similar symptoms.
There is no cure for PCOS, but it can be managed. Weight loss and exercise are part of PCOD treatment. Taking birth control pills may help with excess hair, acne, and regular periods. It is also possible to manage this syndrome with metformin and anti-androgens. Among the efforts to improve fertility are clomiphene, weight loss, and metformin.
Clinical and biochemical criteria are used to diagnose PCOS. It is suspected in adolescents with hirsutism, acne, menstrual irregularities, or obesity. If excess androgen is detected in the laboratory, the diagnosis is further confirmed. In an androgen panel, plasma total testosterone, free testosterone, and DHEA sulfate are measured.
An excess of androgens can be detected by measuring plasma-free testosterone. The main marker of androgens produced by the adrenal glands is DHEA sulfate. Obese patients should undergo cortisol and thyroid function tests to rule out other causes of obesity.
Generally, the ovaries produce female sex hormones (estrogen) and a few male sex hormones (androgen). During each menstrual cycle, these regulate the development of eggs in the ovaries. PCOS is caused by an imbalance in sexual hormones.
In PCOS, they start producing more androgens which causes patients to stop ovulating, get pimples, and grow extra facial and body hair. During polycystic ovary syndrome, the eggs in the follicles do not mature properly and are not released from the ovaries. PCOS seems to be genetic, so if other women in the family have PCOS, irregular periods, or diabetes, the chance of having it increases.
PCOS cases have difficulty in getting pregnant.
In case pregnancy occurs, PCOS cases have:
If you suspect you may have PCOD/PCOS, it is important to seek medical help. Some signs and symptoms that may indicate PCOD/PCOS include:
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action.
The terms polycystic ovary disease (PCOD) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are often used interchangeably, but they are actually two different conditions. As the name implies, PCOD is a condition in which multiple cysts develop on the ovaries, whereas PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can cause a variety of symptoms, including cysts on the ovaries.
Lifestyle changes and diet modifications can help Manage Symptoms of PCOD. Some changes that can be made include:
There is no cure for PCOD, but there are various treatments that can help manage symptoms. Some common treatments include:
>Some non-surgical treatments for PCOD/PCOS include:
Getting pregnant with PCOS can be more difficult, but it is not impossible. Some things that can help increase the chances of getting pregnant include:
The length of PCOS treatment can vary depending on the individual and the severity of their symptoms. Some women may need to undergo treatment for several years, while others may be able to manage their symptoms with lifestyle changes alone.
Yes, PCOS can come back after treatment. It is important to continue to manage symptoms through lifestyle changes and regular medical care, even after treatment is complete.