In today’s fast-paced urban lifestyle, women often find themselves juggling professional goals and personal responsibilities, with little time to prioritize their health. Amid rising fertility concerns in India, one condition has emerged as both common, misdiagnosed and untreated is Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD). According to the Ministry of Science and Technology, the prevalence of PCOS (used interchangeably with PCOD) in India ranges from 3.7% to 22.5%. In certain urban cities this number can be as high as 36% in adolescents. Despite being highly prevalent, PCOD is still surrounded by misinformation. Let us understand more details of this hormonal disorder and explore the options for PCOD treatment in Mumbai.
Table of Contents
What is PCOD?
Polycystic Ovarian Disorder (PCOD) is a hormonal condition that disrupts a woman’s ovaries,
inhibiting the normal formation and release of eggs. This results in ovaries filling with several
immature follicles and an excess production of male hormones (androgens). This results in
conditions like irregular menses, infertility, acne, and excess hair growth.
Common Symptoms of PCOD
Signs and symptoms can start at puberty or become noticed later, particularly with weight gain.
The most frequent signs are:
- Irregular periods or amenorrhea
- Oily skin and acne
- Increased body or facial hair (hirsutism)
- Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp
- Weight gain or inability to lose weight
- Infertility or an inability to conceive
If you’re experiencing at least two of these symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a specialist. You
can consult some of the best gynecologists for PCOD at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital
for a detailed investigation.
What Causes PCOD?
The exact cause of PCOD still remains unknown. However, years of medical research indicate
that some of these factors may contribute to PCOD:
- Genetics
Family history plays a significant role. If your mother or sister has PCOD, your chances of
developing it are higher. - Insulin Resistance
Up to 70% of women with PCOD have insulin resistance. This means the body struggles to use
insulin effectively, leading to high blood sugar and excess androgen production. - Inflammation
Chronic low-grade inflammation can also trigger androgen production and worsen PCOD
symptoms. - Lifestyle
Urban women are increasingly getting subjected to sedentary lifestyles, irregular diet patterns,
and stress, all of them contributing to PCOD.
Lifestyle Changes to Manage PCOD
While PCOD does not have a permanent treatment, it can be reversed in many cases with
sustained lifestyle modifications:
- Weight Management
Excess weight can have a negative effect on your hormones. Maintain a healthy weight to regulate your hormones and restore ovulation. - Balanced Diet
Focus on high-fiber foods, lean protein, healthy fats, and whole grains. - Exercise Regularly
You must regularly practice at least 30 minutes of physical activity—HIIT, cardio, yoga, or strength training—most days of the week. - Sleep Well
You must create a healthy sleep routine and get atleast 7 to 8 hours of good quality sleep daily. - Stress Reduction
Learn to cope with daily stress by including yoga, meditation or any other relaxation technique.
The Role of Diet in PCOD Management
Are you finding a PCOD-friendly diet? You must focus on eating whole foods, stay away from
processed foods and create a diet plan that includes low glycemic index carbohydrates, and
anti-inflammatory ingredients.
Foods to Eat:
- Leafy greens like spinach and kale
- Whole grains and legumes
- Low-fat dairy
- Nuts and seeds
- Omega-3 rich fish like salmon
Foods to Avoid:
- Refined sugar
- Processed foods
- Deep-fried or fatty meals
Exercise Recommendations
Choose a combination of:
- Cardio (walking, cycling)
- Strength training (to improve insulin sensitivity)
- Mind-body exercises (yoga, pilates) for hormonal balance
Treatment for PCOD
If lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough, medical intervention is available. PCOD treatment doctors in Mumbai offer a range of options tailored to individual needs. This includes the use of certain medications in most cases to manage the condition. If medications don’t help, some surgical options may be considered.
PCOD Care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital
While there is no permanent treatment for PCOD, this hormonal disorder is manageable with early medical intervention. Care includes lifestyle changes, better dietary habits and certain medications. Consistent care can help women with PCOD lead more fulfilling lives. If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms, don’t delay seeking medical care.
Our Department of Gynaecology & Obstetrics is a beacon of hope for women facing PCOD. Our experienced team of specialists offers comprehensive care, from diagnosis to treatment, using the latest medical advancements. We provide personalized treatment plans, including lifestyle guidance and medication, to help get relief, improve fertility and your quality of life. Do not hesitate to seek medical care for PCOD symptoms. An experienced team of gynaecologists at one of the leading gynaecology hospitals in Mumbai, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital helps guide you with personalized care for PCOD.