PCOD Symptoms: Recognize the Signs and Seek Timely Care

Introduction

Polycystic ovarian disease is a hormonal issue affecting women during the reproductive years. It is caused by a hormonal imbalance; therefore, it impacts ovulation, metabolism, and reproductive health of a woman. Early detection of the signs and symptoms can provide long-term reproductive health. This article will explain what are the symptoms of PCOD in detail. Identifying PCOD symptoms early helps prevent complications such as diabetes, infertility, and menstrual problems.

PCOD symptom checklist: What to watch for

Some of the most common PCOD symptoms experienced by a woman are:

• Irregular periods
• Excess hair growth (Hirsutism)
• Acne and Oily Skin
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Thinning hair or hair loss
• Darkened skin and skin tags
• Fertility problems

Irregular Periods

Women often experience irregular periods. They may miss one or two months, and menstrual cycles are more than 35 days. Some women experience heavy bleeding, whereas others may have light spotting during periods. Irregular periods occur due to hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance, which interfere with egg maturation. This delays the periods and results in no ovulation. Irregular periods are the most common signs and symptoms of PCOD.

Excess Hair Growth (Hirsutism)

Women with PCOD may develop unwanted hair on the chin, abdomen, back, chest, face, and thighs. Unwanted hair results from high levels of androgens, which stimulate hair follicles in some areas, leading to male-pattern hair growth.

Acne and Oily Skin

Women with PCOS will have oily skin, due to which they experience acne on the back, chest, cheeks, chin, and jawline. They may experience frequent breakouts, especially before periods. This occurs due to high androgen levels that stimulate sebum production, clogging pores, and producing acne. Acne is also the most common sign of PCOS in females, especially in young girls.

Weight Gain or Difficulty Losing Weight

PCOD causes unexplained weight gain in women. Women also find it difficult to lose weight despite doing exercise and managing their diet. Weight gain is especially around the abdomen, which makes them feel bloated. This occurs due to insulin resistance, and glucose is stored as fat.

Thinning Hair or Hair Loss

Hair becomes thin, weak, and falls rapidly in women with PCOS. Some women experience male pattern baldness. This also occurs due to increased levels of androgens that cause hair thinning. Hair growth increases in other areas, but scalp hair becomes thin.

Darkening of Skin and Skin Tags

Hormonal imbalance in PCOD also affects the skin and causes dark patches on the thighs, neck, underarms, groin, and elbows. Some women also have skin tags around the neck or underarms. The reason for skin tags is insulin resistance. High insulin levels cause skin pigmentation and enhance the formation of skin tags.

Fertility Problems

Women with PCOD have difficulty getting pregnant. This happens due to the absence of ovulation and irregular periods. The risk of miscarriage also increases if pregnancy takes place in women with PCOD. It becomes difficult to conceive without regular ovulation.

When to See a Doctor?

You must consult with a doctor if you experience two or more PCOD symptoms together, such as irregular periods for 3 or more months, persistent pimples, rapid weight gain, unusual hair growth on different body parts, dark patches or skin tags, and difficulty in conceiving when trying for more than a year without protection.

Conclusion

PCOD is a common hormonal disorder that can be managed successfully by making lifestyle changes, eating a proper diet, and taking appropriate treatment. It is important to know the early symptoms of PCOD so that women can take timely treatment to prevent long-term complications such as diabetes and infertility. If you experience irregular periods, hair growth on your chin or face, have persistent acne, or other PCOD symptoms, you should visit a doctor immediately to get diagnosed.