This is a common condition in adolescent girls and young women. Usually, the person is overweight and her menses are irregular. She may complain of excessive hair on the face or body. All features are not present in all the people with this condition.
As of now, there is no medicine which permanently cure this condition. It can go away on its own or stay the same. But bringing the body weight to ideal levels offers the best hope for natural relief of symptoms. It is not a tumour.
What are the signs and symptoms of PCOD?
Some women start experiencing symptoms around the time of their first period.
- Acne
- Darkening of skin
- Hirsutism (abnormal growth of hair on face and body)
- Irregular menstrual cycle
- Polycystic ovaries, sometimes both ovaries may be involved i.e Bilateral
- Polycystic ovaries or ovarian cysts
- Skin tags
- Thinning hair
- Weight gain
Facts to remember:
- It is important to have normal weight since this can improve symptoms. Diet and exercise are important to watch.
- If 60 days go by without a bleed, take the progesterone medication prescribed by your doctor for 10-14 days . Expect a bleed in 3-10 days of stopping the medicine. Keep a diary of menstrual cycles.
- If excessive facial hair is a problem, you can consider medication, but these medicines have to be taken exactly as the doctors prescribe.
- If you are overweight, blood pressure must be measured every 6 months and a record maintained. If BP is greater than 130/90, consult your doctor.
What are the possible complications of PCOD?
Some of the possible complications of PCOD are:
- Abnormal uterine bleeding
- Psychological disorders like depression and eating disorders
- Endometrial cancer
- Pregnancy induced or Gestational diabetes and/or hypertension
- Infertility
- Metabolic syndrome
- Miscarriage or premature birth
What are the treatment options for patients with PCOD?
- Weight management
- Medications as advised by the gynaecologist
- In vitro fertilization
- Surgery