PCOD – How does PCOD Affect a Woman?

PCOD (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, also known as Sten-Leventhal Syndrome, is a health condition that affects a woman’s ovaries. In this condition, the ovary gets enlarged and contains fluid-filled sacs, also known as cysts, and a tendency to high levels of male hormones, androgen. 7 to 10% of women are affected by PCOD.

The ovaries are glands(a pair) located on either side of the uterus(womb). The ovaries produce Ova (the eggs), which are then released into the uterus monthly during one’s menstrual cycle. Each ovum develops in the woman’s ovary from a swelling that is relatively small and known as a follicle.

The ovaries produce certain hormones such as estrogen, androgen, and testosterone, a male hormone.

How does PCOD affect a woman?

PCOD affects in the following ways:

1. Every month, about 12 follicles develop on the surface of a woman’s ovary. This is, of course, more than usual. These follicles are called cysts, and in this manner, the disease also gets its name. Poly implies many; Cystic refers to the follicles, Ovary Syndrome. These cysts are fluid sacs in the ovaries that are benign. They are not related in any way to cancer
2. Although one comes across many follicles, they do not mature completely, and because of this, no ovum is released. When such a situation occurs, the woman does not have periods. In some cases the ovulation takes place sometimes, thus causing irregular periods
3. The balance of these ovaries gets affected. Normally, the ovaries tend to produce higher levels of testosterone

Underlying Causes of POCD (Polycystic Ovarian Disorder)

The root causes of POCD are largely unknown, but several contributing factors are identified:

• Hormonal Imbalance: Increase in luteinising hormone by pituitary gland. If not treated on time, this male hormone might convert to estrogen. To balance this, enough progesterone has to be produced, which does not happen in this case. If this is not treated, it could lead to another condition called endometrial hyperplasia, where the uterus lining gets extremely thickened. This could increase the risk of endometrial cancer(cancer of the uterus lining).
• Genetic Factors: Genetic predisposition may play a role in the development of POCD.
• Insulin Resistance: Difficulty in effectively using insulin may contribute to the disorder.
• Weight Issues: Being overweight can be both a cause and a consequence of POCD.

Recognizing Symptoms of PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disorder)

Symptoms of this condition could start as early as during pregnancy. Women affected with this problem might not get their menstrual period started on time. Because of this, the eggs are not released into the ovaries.

• Vocal Changes: A deepening of the voice.
• Breast Shrinkage: Decrease in breast size.
• Muscle Growth: An increase in muscle mass.
• Insulin Issues: Overproduction of insulin or insulin resistance.
• Cardiovascular Risks: Elevated risks of high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.
• Weight Challenges: Weight gain and difficulty in shedding it.
• Menstrual Irregularities: Absence of regular menstrual cycles.
• Skin Problems: Occurrence of acne.
• Excessive Hair Growth: Unwanted hair growth on the face and body, known as hirsutism.
• Hair Thinning: Thinning or loss of hair on the scalp.
• Fertility Issues: Challenges in achieving pregnancy.

Diagnostic Methods for PCOD

To diagnose Polycystic Ovarian Disorder (PCOD), healthcare professionals typically rely on a combination of blood tests and imaging studies.

• Hormonal Blood Tests: Assessing levels of male hormones and luteinizing hormones to understand hormonal imbalances.
• Ultrasound Imaging: Utilized to detect whether hormonal irregularities are due to tumors in the ovaries or adrenal glands.

Different women experience different symptoms, and the severity of the symptoms also varies. Symptoms usually develop around puberty as well as early twenties. In most cases, women who experience this syndrome have difficulty conceiving.

Other health conditions linked with PCOD

• Women can have Type 2 diabetes or become diabetic during pregnancy
• Sleep apnea
• Infrequent periods which can lead to cancer of the womb
• Poor self-esteem or depression