As a woman suffering PCOD, she will search for several things that reduce the effects of this condition. Do you know about them? If not, then keep exploring this blog, as it elaborates on everything about PCOD.
Polycystic ovarian disease is a hormonal disorder that affects many women globally. It has severe influences on a woman’s reproductive health and other aspects including mental well-being, weight management, and long-term health risks.
PCOD - An overview
Polycystic ovarian disease is a hormonal disorder where the ovaries produce excessive amounts of androgen (male hormones), which can lead to an irregular menstrual cycle and the formation of small cysts in the ovaries.
Women in their reproductive age are most commonly affected by the issue of PCOD or PCOS, left untreated can cause mild to severe problems including infertility. That’s why many women address these issues immediately and safeguard their health.
But what is the exact cause of this condition? To the surprise, there is no accurate reason for polycystic ovarian syndrome or disease. However, conditions like PCOS affect around 8 to 13% of women in their reproductive age and up to 70% of the affected population remain undiagnosed worldwide.
In this case, if you’re a woman with PCOD or PCOS, then you can follow these tips to overcome this issue. Still, how can you know that you’re affected by PCOD? Here it is.
How to identify that I have PCOD?
As usual symptoms of PCOD tell that you have this condition, but make sure consultation is the most important thing for final confirmation.
Polycystic ovarian disease mainly affects the ovaries, which are responsible for estrogen and progesterone production, along with the male hormone, androgen. This condition leads to the abnormal release of male hormones and causes these symptoms.
- Irregular and unpredictable period or menstrual cycle.
- Heavy bleeding during the menstrual period.
- Excess growth of facial and body hair.
- Acne and male hair loss pattern.
- Difficulty in conception or infertility.
- Obesity, depression, and sleeping disorders.
Can I cure PCOD completely?
As soon as women identify the symptoms or doctors confirm PCOD, they eagerly ask if is it curable. However, it is. But, polycystic ovarian syndrome or disease is not a reversible condition. So, women can reduce the side effects, but not treat the condition completely.
Tips to reduce PCOD problems
Here is a list of tips that effectively help a woman overcome or reduce polycystic ovarian disease.
Dietary tips
Reduce Refined Carbs and Sugar
Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks to stabilize blood sugar and reduce insulin resistance. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods like grains and vegetables.
Increase Fiber Intake
High-fiber foods help regulate blood sugar and improve digestion. Include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support healthy hormone levels.
Incorporate Healthy Fats
Healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and seeds aid hormone regulation. Omega-3s reduce inflammation and improve overall insulin sensitivity.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Losing 5-10% of body weight can significantly improve PCOS symptoms. Combine a balanced diet with regular exercise for effective results.
Lifestyle improvements
Poor lifestyle habits are one of the most important reasons for hormonal imbalance conditions like PCOD and PCOS. So, make sure to follow these things. They are:
Regular Exercise
Incorporating at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise into your daily routine can work wonders for managing PCOS symptoms.
Activities like walking, cycling, or swimming enhance insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and support weight management key factors in reducing PCOS-related complications. Additionally, exercise improves overall physical and mental health, making it a cornerstone of PCOS management.
Stress Management
Chronic stress can significantly worsen PCOD symptoms by increasing cortisol levels, which disrupts hormone balance. Engaging in stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can help calm your mind and body.
These practices not only alleviate stress but also promote emotional well-being, making it easier to cope with the challenges of PCOD.
Adequate Sleep
Sleep is crucial for maintaining hormonal balance and overall health. Aim for 7-8 hours of uninterrupted, quality sleep each night to support your body’s natural rhythms.
Sleep deprivation can make PCOS symptoms worse by increasing insulin resistance and disrupting reproductive hormones. A consistent sleep schedule and a relaxing bedtime routine can significantly improve your overall well-being
Seeking medical help
You can consult your doctor if you experience any of the mentioned symptoms because it can effectively help you reduce the effects of PCOD.
On the other side, you must understand that not everyone with PCOD should mandatorily experience these symptoms. So, in that case, women can consider a gynecologist consultation after frequently missing their periods.
Is PCOS and PCOD the same?
Most often polycystic ovarian syndrome and disease that is PCOD and PCOS are often identified as the same. But is it true? These two conditions are slightly different and can have these differences.
| PCOS | PCOD |
|---|---|
|
It is a broader syndrome that has cysts in the ovaries, hormonal imbalances, and irregular periods. |
Multiple small cysts are there in the ovary |
|
It can bring a wide range of hormonal and metabolic issues, affecting multiple body functions. |
Mainly causes ovarian cysts and menstrual irregularities.
|
|
Physical examinations, blood tests and ultrasound scans are the common methods of diagnosis. |
Through ultrasound scans and blood tests, the PCOD condition is diagnosed. |
Last Few Words
The different strategies you’ve explored in this article, from dietary changes to exercises highly contribute to reducing the effects of PCOD on your body. Because polycystic ovarian disease is not a reversible condition, ignoring it or leaving it untreated affects your reproductive health severely.
In addition, seek expert help; you must consult a doctor if you’re continuously noticing changes in your monthly menstrual cycle. With their guidance and your commitment to self-care, you can easily understand the challenges and effectively reduce PCOD and achieve a happy pregnancy.
People also ask
Yes, women can achieve natural pregnancy even if they have Polycystic ovarian disease. However, if you’ve been trying to conceive for a long time with PCOD and haven’t seen optimal results, you must consult fertility specialists.
Doctors test you completely and suggest the best treatments for successful conception.
Working out thirty minutes every day helps to improve your health. The best exercise for PCOD is cardio. For PCOD, these are some simple activities, walking, strength training, yoga, cycling, and jogging.
If you want the best and fastest pregnancy results with PCOD, you must consult your doctor. They may recommend you take oral medications stimulating ovulation or advise you to undergo any specific fertility treatment for conception. In addition, make sure to follow the listed tips to overcome the PCOD.
Ultrasound scans and blood examinations are the two recommended tests for PCOD.
