Polycystic Ovarian Disease or PCOD and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS are common conditions that affect women of reproductive age, especially the urban population. In this condition, the ovaries produce an excess amount of male hormones called androgens which hamper the normal functioning of reproductive hormones. This results in irregular menstrual cycles, the presence of multiple cysts on the ovaries, and often weight gain.
People often use these terms interchangeably as these conditions are quite similar, but there is a slight difference between the two. Simply put, PCOD is termed a disease which means it has a known cause, in this case, a hormonal imbalance that results in enlarged follicles in the ovaries. PCOS on the other hand is a syndrome, which means a set of certain specific, correlated signs and symptoms including hormonal imbalance, but with unknown direct cause.
Both conditions demonstrate similar signs and symptoms, and it is often observed that PCOS is quite common in women with complex and multiple complaints. It affects the endocrine system such as obesity, insulin resistance, irregular menstrual cycle, and anovulation.
Signs and Symptoms of PCOD/PCOS
Clinically there are similar signs and symptoms for PCOD and PCOS. If you are experiencing two or more of these symptoms, it is advised to start treatment and make suitable lifestyle changes.
Most common signs and symptoms are-
- Irregular menstrual cycle
- Weight gain
- Acne
- Excessive facial hair
- Thinning of scalp hair
- Frequent mood swings
- Anxiety
- Poor sleep quality
- Pelvic pain
PCOS/PCOD can be treated with Ayurveda
PCOS is described as a low-level chronic inflammation based on a study published by the National Institutes of Health. Ayurveda considers this inflammation as Ama which is an accumulation of toxins in the body. Ayurveda as a complementary therapy can definitely benefit in resolving complaints, Amapachan or detoxification, and regulating the menstrual cycle. Ayurveda focuses on balancing the Tridoshas(Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and restoring the hormonal imbalance with the right diet, lifestyle, and natural herbal remedies.
PCOD/PCOS is a metabolic disorder with an imbalance of multiple hormones and requires dietary modification with a combination of Ayurveda therapy. Panchakarma also is an effective treatment modality for PCOS. The therapy actually works on imbalanced hormones, insulin resistance, sluggish metabolism, and imbalanced fat. The aim of Ayurveda intervention is to restore the normal functioning of the reproductive system.
