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What is PCOD?
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Kunuku yamuna , Gynecologist
The Full form of PCOD is Polycystic Ovarian Disease. PCOD means the most common hormone imbalance problem in women during their reproductive years. Most women aged 12-45 years are facing the PCOD problem.
In PCOD, the ovaries, which are female reproductive organs that produce eggs, are affected. As a result, the ovaries produce an excess number of immature or partially mature eggs. These eggs turn into small fluid-filled sacs or cysts over time.
PCOD is becoming increasingly common across India, particularly in urban areas. Recent studies show the national prevalence of PCOS/PCOD ranges from around 8% on average up to about 17.4% among young women aged 18–25 in Delhi NCR, with some urban areas like Mumbai reporting rates as high as 22.5% depending on PCOD diagnostic criteria.
While this condition is generally not life-threatening, it can substantially affect a woman’s fertility, metabolism, skin and hair health, mental well‑being, and overall quality of life if left unmanaged.
PCOD vs PCOS
PCOD and PCOS are the most common gynaecological conditions we hear about frequently. Most people think these two conditions are the same. Is that true? Are PCOD and PCOS the same? The answer is “No, PCOD (Polycystic Ovary Disease) and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) are not same”.
PCOD full form in medical - Polycystic Ovarian Disease is a condition in which the ovaries produce many immature or partially mature eggs, which over time become cysts. It is primarily caused by hormonal imbalance and poor lifestyle habits.
PCOS full form in medical - Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a more complex metabolic and endocrine disorder that affects the whole body, not only the ovaries. It causes hormonal imbalance, insulin resistance, and can lead to irregular periods, infertility, weight gain, and other systemic issues.
What are the PCOD Symptoms?
The symptoms of PCOD can differ in individuals. But Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) appears with a range of signs, all are majorly related to ovarian dysfunction and hormonal imbalance, which is why it's important to observe the changes in your body.
Most of the women are unaware of these symptoms, a few observe these symptoms during their first period, and some are found when they gain excessive weight or have trouble getting pregnant.
Some symptoms are mild, while others might feel overwhelming.
Common Symptoms Of PCOD or PCOS in Females
- Irregular periods: PCOD affects ovarian function and impacts egg release. Due to this, many women miss their periods, have fewer than 8 periods a year, or experience long gaps between cycles.
- Weight gain, especially around the belly: Hormonal imbalance and insulin resistance lead to weight gain, particularly around the waistline.
- Unwanted Hair Growth: This is a common visible symptom of PCOS. High levels of male hormones, such as androgens, lead to unwanted hair growth on the chest, face, abdomen, or back. This is called hirsutism.
- Hair Loss on the Scalp: While getting the unwanted hair on the chest, face and other places. The actual hair on the scalp may be thinning or lost.
- Acne or oily skin
- Mood changes and fatigue
- Trouble conceiving
- Heavy or absent periods
If you're experiencing a mix of these PCOD problem symptoms for more than a couple of months, it's a good idea to talk to a doctor.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionWhat are the PCOD Causes?
The exact cause of PCOD is not clear. The doctors believe the reasons for PCOD are genetic and lifestyle changes. Understanding what increases your risk helps you take control of your health.
Causes of PCOD
- Hormonal Imbalance: The higher levels of male hormones (androgens) in women disturb the ovulation process and lead to irregular periods and difficulty getting pregnant.
- Genetic Factors: Doctors believe PCOD is passed through the family members. If a mother or sister has PCOD, the chances of developing it are higher.
- Insulin Resistance: The pancreas releases the insulin hormone to regulate the blood sugar levels. The excessive amount of insulin leads to POCD in females.
PCOD Risk Factors
- Family History
- Insulin Resistance
- Obesity or Being Overweight
- Sedentary Lifestyle
- Early Puberty
- Medication that affects Hormones
Being aware of these risk factors can help in taking preventive steps. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and having regular health check-ups can lower the risk and help in early detection and treatment of PCOD.
What is the PCOD Diagnosis?
There is no specific test to diagnose PCOS or PCOD. The general diagnosis process includes medical history review, symptom observation, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies.
The main priority of PCOD Diagnosis is identifying the ovarian abnormalities and hormone imbalance in the patient.
Common PCOD Diagnosis Criteria
- Medical History: The first step typically involves a detailed medical history. The doctor will ask about your menstrual cycle patterns, weight changes, acne, excess hair growth, and whether there is a family history of PCOD or diabetes.
- Physical Examination: A physical examination is also conducted to identify visible signs, such as abnormal hair growth, acne, or skin discolouration around the neck and underarms.
- Blood Tests: Blood tests are an important part of diagnosing PCOS. Hormone level tests are performed to measure androgens (male hormones), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), thyroid hormones, and prolactin, which help rule out other hormonal problems. Insulin and glucose tests are done to check how the body is processing sugar and to detect insulin resistance.
- Pelvic Ultrasound: A pelvic ultrasound test is performed through the abdomen or transvaginally. A small probe is used to create images of the ovaries and uterus. This helps detect the presence of multiple small cysts on the ovaries and also measures the thickness of the uterine lining.
Mostly, this diagnosis procedure is done by the gynaecologists or fertility doctors.
What are the Treatment Options for PCOD?
There is no PCOD Cure. The main goal of PCOD Treatment is to manage the ovarian abnormalities and hormone imbalance in the patient. The treatment varies in individuals depending on their symptoms and condition.
The Doctor suggests a Specific PCOD treatment plan which includes lifestyle changes and medications recommended to manage hormonal changes and reduce the symptoms.
Common PCOD Treatment Plan Includes
Lifestyle Changes
- Weight loss is often the first step in managing PCOS. A low-calorie, balanced diet combined with moderate physical activity can help reduce symptoms. Even a small weight loss of around 5% of your body weight can improve hormonal balance, regulate menstrual cycles, and increase the effectiveness of medications.
Medications to Regulate Periods
- Combination Birth Control Pills: Normally, these pills contain estrogen and progestin to regulate hormones, lower male hormone-androgen levels, reduce irregular bleeding, and help with acne and excessive hair growth.
- Progestin Therapy: Progestin taken for 10–14 days every 1–2 months to regulate menstrual cycles and protect from endometrial cancer.
Medications to Help with Ovulation
- Clomiphene: Clomiphene is an oral medication taken during the first part of the menstrual cycle to stimulate ovulation.
- Letrozole (Femara) is a breast cancer treatment that helps stimulate the ovaries and induce ovulation.
- Metformin: This oral medicine used to lower the type 2 diabetes and improve insulin resistance, lowers insulin levels, supports weight loss, and may help induce ovulation when combined with clomiphene.
- Gonadotropins: Hormonal injections given to stimulate ovulation when other medications are not effective.
- In some cases, procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be suggested for conception.
Medications and Procedures for Excessive Hair Growth or Acne
- Birth control pills: Lower androgen levels reduce acne and unwanted hair growth.
- Spironolactone (Aldactone): Blocks androgen effects on the skin but requires strict birth control as it can cause birth defects. Not safe during pregnancy.
- Eflornithine (Vaniqa): A topical cream that slows down facial hair growth.
- Hair removal options include electrolysis and laser hair removal for long-term results. Temporary methods, such as shaving, plucking, or using hair removal creams, can also be used, but may require frequent repetition.
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When to See a Doctor for PCOS Treatment?
You should see a doctor for PCOS treatment if you notice any typical symptoms or have concerns about your menstrual cycle or fertility. Early diagnosis and management are key to preventing long-term health complications and improving your quality of life. Here are specific scenarios when you should consult a healthcare professional:
See a Doctor If You Have:
- Irregular, infrequent, or absent periods
- Difficulty becoming pregnant ( infertility)
- Excessive hair growth (hirsutism)
- Severe or persistent acne
- Unexplained weight gain and difficulty losing weight.
- Abnormal uterine bleeding
Specialists to See
- Gynecologist
- Endocrinologist
- Infertility specialist (Reproductive Endocrinologist)
What Is the Recovery Process After PCOD Treatment?
Managing PCOD is a long-term journey. PCOS Recovery process depends on the specific treatment received, such as medication, lifestyle changes and surgery.
The general recovery process includes the following doctor’s recommendations and suggestions.
- Healthy Diet
- Regular Exercise
- Stress Management
- Good Sleep
- Monitoring Symptoms
- Regular Check-ups
- Fertility Considerations
With consistent care, many women experience significant improvement in their symptoms within a few months.
What Precautions Can Help Prevent PCOD?
You can't always prevent PCOD, but taking better care of your health can lower your risk and reduce its impact.
Prevention Tips
- Stay physically active
- Maintain a proper, balanced diet with fewer processed foods
- Get enough sleep and manage stress
- Go for regular gynaecological check-ups
- Avoid junk food
What is a Healthy PCOD diet?
The female reproductive health depends on their food indirectly. Few foods benefit them and at the same time have negative impacts on hormonal balance and overall ovarian health. Let's find out the PCOD diet for women.
Foods for Women with PCOD
- Oats
- Quinoa
- Brown rice
- Whole wheat bread
- Broccoli
- Spinach
- Carrots
- Beans (kidney beans, chickpeas, black beans)
- Fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel)
- Skinless chicken
- Eggs
- Tofu
- Lentils
- Avocados
- Nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews)
- Seeds (flaxseeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds)
- Olive oil
- Pears
- Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Apples
- Oranges
- Low-fat milk
- Plant-based milk (almond milk, soy milk, oat milk)
- Yogurt
- Walnuts
- Fatty fish (salmon, tuna, trout)
- Whole fruits instead of juices
- Green leafy vegetables (kale, cabbage, fenugreek leaves)
- Cucumbers
- Tomatoes
- Zucchini
- Sweet potatoes
- Herbal teas (green tea, spearmint tea)
- Water (adequate daily intake)
Foods to Avoid for PCOD
- Refined carbohydrates (white bread, white rice, pasta made from refined flour)
- Sugary foods (cakes, pastries, cookies, doughnuts)
- Sweetened beverages (sodas, packaged fruit juices, energy drinks)
- Processed snacks (chips, crackers, fast food items)
- Fried foods (deep-fried snacks, fries, pakoras)
- Red and processed meats (sausages, bacon, hot dogs)
- Full-fat dairy products (full cream milk, high-fat cheese, butter)
- Sugary cereals
- Foods high in artificial sweeteners or preservatives
- Trans fats (margarine, hydrogenated oils used in bakery items)
- High-sugar desserts (ice creams, milkshakes, puddings)
- Excess salt (processed pickles, salty packaged foods)
- High glycemic index foods (white potatoes, sugary white bread)
- Excess caffeine (too much coffee, strong tea, caffeinated soft drinks)
- Alcohol (especially sugary cocktails and beer)
What are the PCOD Complications?
PCOD is not a life-threatening condition. But ignoring PCOD symptoms and not taking proper treatment can lead to serious complications.
- Infertility
- Obstetric Complications
- Cardiovascular Risk
- Metabolic Risk
- Pregnancy Complications
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Obesity
Our Experience in Treating PCOD
At Medicover Hospitals, we understand that living with Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) can be challenging. Many women come to us worried about irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and difficulty conceiving. Over the years, we’ve treated thousands of women who manage PCOD successfully, guiding them toward a healthier and more confident life.
Our experience in treating PCOD goes beyond just prescribing medicines. We focus on understanding every woman’s symptoms, health history, and personal concerns before planning treatment. Our team of gynecologists, endocrinologists, and nutritionists work together to create care plans that actually work in real life.
