What is PCOD/PCOS? Causes, Types & Symptoms Explained

PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) are among the most common hormonal disorders in women of reproductive age. In simple words, it means your ovaries produce multiple immature or partially mature eggs, which turn into cysts over time. If untreated, PCOD/PCOS can lead to irregular periods, unwanted hair growth, acne, and even infertility.

How Does PCOD/PCOS Develop?

PCOD/PCOS doesn’t happen overnight. It is a result of a hormonal imbalance, genetics, and lifestyle factors. Here’s how:

Hormonal Imbalance: Your ovaries produce excessive androgens (male hormones) that disrupt ovulation.
Insulin Resistance: Many women with PCOS have high insulin levels. This triggers the ovaries to make more testosterone.
Heredity: If your mother or sister has PCOD, your risk increases.
Obesity and Sedentary Lifestyle: Being overweight can worsen insulin resistance and PCOD symptoms.
Stress: Long-term stress affects your hormones and can aggravate PCOD.

Common Types of PCOS

Doctors often classify PCOS into 4 major types:

1️⃣ Insulin-Resistant PCOS: Caused by high insulin levels.
2️⃣ Post-Pill PCOS: Some women get PCOS-like symptoms after stopping birth control pills.
3️⃣ Adrenal PCOS: Triggered by excess stress hormones (like DHEAS).
4️⃣ Inflammatory PCOS: Chronic inflammation in the body disrupts hormone balance.

10 Common Signs That You Have PCOD/PCOS

Wondering if you have PCOD? Here are 10 signs that you have PCOD:

1️⃣ Irregular periods or missed periods
2️⃣ Excessive facial or body hair (hirsutism)
3️⃣ Acne or pimples that don’t go away easily
4️⃣ Oily skin and scalp
5️⃣ Unexplained weight gain, especially around the belly
6️⃣ Thinning hair or hair fall
7️⃣ Difficulty in getting pregnant
8️⃣ Mood swings, anxiety, or depression
9️⃣ Dark patches on skin (neck, underarms)
🔟 Fatigue or low energy levels

How to Manage PCOD/PCOS Naturally

The good news is PCOD can be managed naturally with the right approach:

Eat a balanced diet: Include whole grains, lean proteins, green veggies, fruits, seeds like flaxseeds and chia. Avoid junk food, sugary drinks, refined carbs.

Maintain healthy weight: Even a small weight loss (5-10%) can help regularize your periods.

Stay active: 30-45 minutes of daily exercise like yoga, brisk walking, or strength training is very helpful.

Manage stress: Try meditation, deep breathing, hobbies, or talking to loved ones.

Herbal Remedies: Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha, Shatavari, Cinnamon, and Turmeric help balance hormones naturally.

Hydrate Well: Drink enough water and herbal teas like spearmint tea, which is known to reduce androgens.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Many women ignore PCOD/PCOS symptoms. But early diagnosis helps you manage it better and prevent complications like Type 2 Diabetes, infertility, or heart disease.

If you have irregular periods, acne, excessive hair growth, or trouble conceiving, consult an expert today.

Book a doctor consultation here to get personalized Ayurvedic solutions for PCOD/PCOS and other women’s health issues.