Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD): A Medical Overview
Overview:
PCOD is a hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by multiple cysts in the ovaries due to hormonal imbalance. It impacts menstrual regularity, fertility, and metabolic health. Lifestyle, genetics, and environmental factors play key roles in its development.
Pathophysiology:
In PCOD, the ovaries produce excess androgens (male hormones), interfering with ovulation. Insulin resistance is commonly seen, leading to hyperinsulinemia, which further stimulates androgen production. This disrupts the regular development and release of eggs, causing anovulation and cyst formation.
▪ Irregular or absent menstrual periods
▪ Excessive hair growth (hirsutism), especially on face and body
▪ Acne and oily skin
▪ Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
▪ Thinning of scalp hair
▪ Infertility
▪ Mood swings or depression
Complications:
If unmanaged, PCOD can lead to:
▪ Type 2 diabetes
▪ Endometrial hyperplasia or cancer
▪ Hypertension
▪ Cardiovascular diseases
▪ Infertility
▪ Obstructive sleep apnea
▪ Pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes
Recent Research Data:
Recent studies highlight that PCOD affects 1 in every 5 Indian women. Research links chronic inflammation, gut microbiome imbalance, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) to the development of PCOD. Lifestyle changes focusing on diet and exercise have shown significant improvement in hormonal profiles and ovulatory cycles.
Diagnostic Approach:
Diagnosis is based on Rotterdam Criteria, requiring any two of the following:
1. Oligo- or anovulation
2. Hyperandrogenism (clinical or biochemical)
3. Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound
Tests commonly include:
► Hormonal panel (LH, FSH, Testosterone)
► Blood glucose and insulin levels
► Pelvic ultrasound
► Thyroid function tests etc.
Conclusion:
Early detection and holistic management including diet, exercise, stress control, and medical therapy can significantly reduce the burden of PCOD and improve the quality of life in affected women. Homeopathy is a very effective mode of treatment for PCOD . With the recent advancement of treatment protocol homeopathy play an important role to improve the symptoms of the disease as well as helps in the reduction of the disease complications.
An article by, Team DNC ACADEMY.
Edited by, Dr. Soumallya Chattopadhyay.