Polycystic Ovary Disease is a common disorder in girls that causes problems with the menstrual cycle along with other symptoms. This condition affects the reproductive organs of women i.e., the ovaries. They produce hormones progesterone and estrogen that helps regulate the menstrual cycle. Besides this, small amounts of androgens (male hormones) are also produced by ovaries. In PCOD, higher amounts of male hormones are produced; hence, symptoms like excessive body hair and severe acne are experienced. To manage the condition, it is important to timely consult a PCOS doctor in South Delhi.
What Causes PCOD?
Studies are still under research to find out the exact cause of PCOS but, researchers have found that the condition runs in families. Several studies have found that PCOD is related to insulin resistance in some girls. This means that girl’s body needs to make higher amounts of insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels. But this is also a question of concern as high insulin can affect ovaries and trigger the production of higher levels of androgens.
What Are the Symptoms of PCOD?
A girl suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome may experience certain changes in her body:
- Many small and insignificant cysts in ovaries
- Menstrual problems like missed, heavy, or irregular periods
- Excessive body hair
- Obesity/unexplained weight gain
- Acne
- Infertility
- Dark patches on the skin
How PCOD is Diagnosed?
Well, diagnosis of PCOD is not easy as there is no single test that can confirm the condition. It requires a number of tests along with the medical and family history examination to conclude that a girl is suffering from PCOS.
Androgen levels are examined through blood tests and physical examinations to identify visible symptoms. The gynecologist will also perform a pelvic examination followed by pelvic or vaginal ultrasound. Though irregular periods are a sign of PCOD, in girls, periods are often irregular for 2-3 years after their first menstrual period. Hence, diagnosing the condition in early adolescent girls is very difficult.
What is the Treatment for PCOD?
The most effective way of treating PCOS/PCOD is through medicines. The goal of treatment is to improve the quality of life by managing the symptoms. The medicines that may be prescribed in PCOD include:
Birth Control Pills
These medicines contain female hormones; hence, they can help restore the hormonal balance while reducing or eliminating the symptoms. The risk of endometrial cancer also gets reduced later in life with this.
Insulin-Sensitizing Medicines
They are used to treat diabetes and in PCOS, they help improve the body’s response to insulin. They also assist in decreasing androgen levels and improving ovulation.
Metformin
This is also a diabetes medicine that plays a role in improving PCOD symptoms.
Antiandrogens
They help reverse the effects of male hormones in women and reduce hair growth acne.
If you are experiencing any such symptoms, consult Dr. Ruchi Tandon, an experienced Gynecologist doctor in south Delhi.
