PCOS and PCOD: Everything You Must Know About It

Before we define what PCOS and PCOD are, it’s important to understand the parts that they primarily affect. A woman’s reproductive system comprises two ovaries that alternately release an egg every month. If the egg is fertilised with the sperm, the first step towards pregnancy is taken. Otherwise, the egg is eliminated during the monthly periods. The ovaries are also responsible for secreting hormones like oestrogen, and progesterone, which regulate fertility, menstruation, and the development of hair. And it releases androgens (commonly thought of as male sex hormones) in minute quantities.

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic condition that impacts the entire endocrine system of women. The endocrine system is a collection of key glands and organs that handle hormone production and regulation in the body. These hormones control nearly all the processes in your body, such as growth, emotions, sexual functions, and even sleep.

In PCOS, the ovaries are enlarged and are distinguished by elevated androgen levels, the presence of small ovarian cysts in one or both ovaries, and irregular periods. The underlying cause of PCOS is still unknown, but genetics and environmental factors play a vital role in its development.

Women with PCOS or PCOD have higher insulin resistance. The ovaries respond to the excess insulin in the system by producing androgens, which can then lead to anovulation – a condition when the egg is not released. As a disorder that affects the hormonal balance in the system, specifically the reproductive function, PCOS causes women to stick to healthier life choices to manage symptoms.

What is PCOD?

Often used interchangeably, polycystic ovary disease results from an imbalance in hormones. The ovaries tend to release multiple eggs, either immature or partially mature, which develop into cysts over time. These cysts release androgens – the male sex hormones, creating further health complications. PCOD disrupts daily living since you can't get away with doing activities that are hazardous to your health.

Common PCOS/PCOD Symptoms

1. Sadness and Depression

About 40% of women with PCOS experience depression, particularly adolescent girls. This is partly due to younger women being more concerned about their physiology. As PCOS impacts hair growth – increase in body hair, and decrease in head hair, it can cause concern amongst younger women. Mental health also goes undiagnosed for many reasons, like lack of access to quality mental healthcare, social stigma, and lack of awareness, and this results in its own set of health issues.

2. Weight Gain

PCOS is linked heavily with insulin resistance. Insulin is vital in regulating sugar levels in the bloodstream. With increased resistance to insulin, the body stores extra sugar as fat, which causes weight gain. Obesity is also a risk factor for the development of PCOS, making it both the cause and effect of PCOS. In addition, affected women are also at risk of developing diabetes.

3. Infertility

It's challenging to get pregnant with PCOS, since the ovulation stage is often skipped due to the imbalance in hormones. If you do not ovulate, you will not get pregnant. There’s also a high chance of miscarriage with PCOS, given the imbalance in hormones, blood sugar, and pressure.

4. Metabolic Syndrome

Women with PCOS are at high risk for metabolic syndromes like obesity, hypertension, insulin, and resistance. These are other causes of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and sleep apnoea.

5. Endometrial Cancer

Due to prolonged exposure of the endometrium to oestrogen from anovulation, there is a 2.7-fold increase in developing endometrial cancer. There may also be an increased risk for ovarian cancer in women with PCOS.

While there is no cure, there are PCOS treatments to help manage the symptoms.

How Can I Manage my PCOS Symptoms?

Lifestyle Changes

This includes following a healthy diet with lean protein, low fat, low glycaemic index foods such as whole grains, leafy greens, fruits, and lentils. Cut out simple carbohydrates, alcohol, and smoking. Lose weight by exercising regularly and achieve your ideal Body Mass Index (BMI). Healthy eating, daily exercise, and avoiding harmful substances can bring substantial relief.

Medicines

Oral contraceptive pills have proven to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer, while also inducing regular periods. Medicines are also available for different stages of pregnancy to regulate key hormones. Whereas creams, electrolysis, and laser treatments are available for excessive hair growth and hair loss.

Surgery

Laparoscopic ovarian drilling is an invasive option that destroys androgen-producing tissue, correcting hormonal imbalance and restoring the normal functioning of the ovaries.

Insurance

PCOS is a common hormone problem in women of child-bearing age. And while there’s no cure, most symptoms can be managed with lifestyle changes, and one can lead a normal life, including bearing children. However, it is a serious condition that can lead to health complications later in life, which is why it is recommended to obtain a women's health insurance policy that also includes maternity insurance.

The Niva Bupa Health Pulse plan offers critical illness insurance protection, including support for pre-existing conditions, and treatment for PCOS-related complications. With PCOS, you may have to visit the hospital several times, for which your health insurance benefits can come in handy. The value of health insurance cannot be emphasised, since it covers pre and post hospitalisation fees, as well as yearly health check-ups.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between PCOS and PCOD?

PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) involves multiple immature eggs in the ovaries, often due to lifestyle factors. PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a hormonal disorder with more severe symptoms and long-term metabolic effects. PCOS is generally considered a more serious condition.

2. What are the common symptoms of PCOS and PCOD?

Common symptoms include irregular periods, weight gain, acne, excessive hair growth, and infertility. Some may also experience mood swings and insulin resistance.

3. What causes PCOS and PCOD?

The exact cause is unknown, but hormonal imbalance, genetics, insulin resistance, and lifestyle factors like poor diet and inactivity contribute to both conditions.

4.  Can PCOS/PCOD affect fertility?

Yes, both conditions can lead to irregular ovulation or anovulation, making it harder to conceive. However, with medical support and lifestyle changes, many women with PCOS/PCOD can still become pregnant.

5.  How are PCOS and PCOD diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on medical history, symptoms, ultrasound scans showing cysts on the ovaries, and blood tests to check hormone levels and insulin resistance.

6. Can PCOS/PCOD be cured?

There is no permanent cure, but symptoms can be managed effectively through lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring. Early diagnosis helps prevent complications like diabetes and heart disease.