1. What is PCOD/ PCOS AND HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

PCOD stands for POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN DISEASE OR POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME. It is diagnosed by presence of 2 of 3 of the following criteria - 1) Typical ultrasound picture of polycystic ovaries i.e. multiple small follicles arranged in periphery of ovaries in necklace like pattern 2) oligo/ anovulation 3) clinical/ biochemical hyperandrogenism.

2. WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF PCOS?

1) Irregular menses, prolonged cycles, scanty menses, absence of menses, spotting
2) Infertility, difficulty in conceiving
3) Obesity, weight gain
4) Acne, unwanted facial hair growth, hairfall, baldness, oily skin, dark patches of skin in folds and creases.

3. WHAT IS THE CAUSE/ PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF PCOS?

PCOS occurs due to increased production of male hormones from the ovaries. This happens because of excess secretion of LH hormone from the pituitary which leads to increased production of androgens from the ovary.

4. CAN PCOS BE CURED?

There is no permanent cure of PCOS. But the symptoms and problems associated with PCOS can be managed and treated.

5. WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR PCOS?

Treatment depends on the symptoms. If patient desires fertility, then induction of ovulation is done with medicines/ injections. For irregular menses, medicines/ hormones are given to regularise the menses. For male pattern symptoms like facial hair growth/acne, anti-androgenic medicines are given. Lifestyle management forms the mainstay of treatment of PCOS. WEIGHT LOSS, DIETARY MANAGEMENT, and EXERCISE, go a long way in reducing the symptoms of PCOS.