PCOD Problem in Females: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment Explained

PCOD problem in females is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women today, especially adolescents and young adults.

Irregular periods, acne, unwanted hair growth, sudden weight gain, and difficulty conceiving are often dismissed as “normal hormonal issues” — but in many cases, PCOD is the underlying cause.

Despite being common, PCOD is widely misunderstood.

Many women live with symptoms for years without proper diagnosis, while others panic unnecessarily about infertility or lifelong illness.

The reality is this:

PCOD is manageable, treatable, and does not stop women from living healthy, normal lives — when addressed early and correctly.

This detailed guide explains what PCOD is, why it occurs, how it affects the body, available treatments, and how expert care at Isha Women’s Hospital & IVF Centre, Dombivli, helps women manage PCOD at every stage of life.

PCOD stands for Polycystic Ovarian Disease.

It is a condition in which the ovaries produce higher-than-normal levels of male hormones (androgens).

Because of this hormonal imbalance:

• Ovulation becomes irregular
• Eggs do not mature properly
• Periods become delayed or missed
• Multiple small immature follicles (often called cysts) are seen in the ovaries

These “cysts” are not dangerous growths.

They are undeveloped eggs that did not ovulate on time.

PCOD is increasingly seen in:

• Teenage girls
• Young working women
• Women with sedentary lifestyles
• Women with family history of hormonal disorders

At Isha Women’s Hospital, PCOD is approached as a hormonal and lifestyle-related condition, not just a menstrual problem — ensuring complete and long-term care.

Many women confuse PCOD with PCOS, but they are not identical.

PCOD is more prevalent in India and generally easier to manage with early intervention.

Understanding this difference helps reduce unnecessary fear and anxiety.

PCOD does not have a single cause.

It develops due to a combination of hormonal, metabolic, genetic, and lifestyle factors.

Common Causes Include

• Hormonal imbalance
• Insulin resistance
• High intake of sugar and processed foods
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Sudden weight gain or obesity
• Genetic predisposition
• Chronic stress
• Poor sleep patterns

Insulin resistance plays a key role.

When insulin levels remain high, the ovaries are stimulated to produce excess androgens, which interferes with normal ovulation.

At Isha Women’s Hospital, identifying root causes is prioritised over repeatedly prescribing medications — a key reason for long-term symptom control.

PCOD symptoms vary from woman to woman.


Some experience mild symptoms, while others have multiple complaints.

Menstrual Problems

Menstrual irregularity is the most common sign of PCOD.

• Delayed periods
• Missed cycles
• Heavy bleeding
• Very scanty periods

Cycles longer than 35 days or frequent missed periods should never be ignored.

Hormonal Symptoms

Excess male hormones affect skin and hair.

• Acne and oily skin
• Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
• ​​​​​​​Hair thinning or hair fall
• ​​​​​​​Dark patches on neck, underarms, or inner thighs

These symptoms are distressing but reversible with proper treatment.

Weight & Metabolic Symptoms

Many women with PCOD struggle with:

• Weight gain, especially around the abdomen
• Difficulty losing weight despite efforts
• ​​​​​​​Sugar cravings
• ​​​​​​​Persistent fatigue

These occur due to slowed metabolism and insulin resistance.

Fertility-Related Symptoms

PCOD can affect ovulation, leading to:

• ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Irregular ovulation
• Difficulty conceiving
• Delayed pregnancy

However, PCOD does not mean infertility.


Most women conceive naturally or with minimal medical assistance.

PCOD diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms supported by investigations.

Tests Used

• Detailed medical and menstrual history
• Pelvic ultrasound to assess ovarian appearance

Blood tests, including:

• LH and FSH
• Testosterone levels
• Blood sugar
• Thyroid profile

Ultrasound alone does not confirm PCOD.

A comprehensive evaluation is essential.

At Isha Women’s Hospital, diagnosis is precise, avoiding overdiagnosis or unnecessary treatment.

Lifestyle correction is the first and most important step.

Key recommendations include:

• Regular exercise (30–45 minutes daily)
• Balanced diet low in sugar and refined carbohydrates
• Adequate protein and fibre intake
• Stress management techniques

Quality sleep

Even 5–10% weight loss can restore ovulation and regular periods in many women.

Medical Treatment Options

Medical treatment depends on symptoms and reproductive goals.

• Medicines to regulate menstrual cycles
• Insulin-sensitising drugs
• Treatment for acne and excess hair
• Ovulation-inducing medicines for pregnancy planning

Treatment is individualised and adjusted over time.

Can Women with PCOD Get Pregnant?

Yes — absolutely.

• Many women conceive naturally after lifestyle correction
• Others conceive with simple oral medications
• IVF is required only in a small percentage of cases

Early diagnosis and timely treatment significantly improve fertility outcomes.

Long-Term Risks of Untreated PCOD

If ignored, PCOD can lead to long-term health problems such as:

• Type 2 diabetes
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Endometrial thickening
• Anxiety and depression

Regular monitoring and proper treatment prevent these complications.

At Isha Women’s Hospital, Dombivli, PCOD care is comprehensive and compassionate.

Our Approach Includes

• Detailed hormonal evaluation
• Advanced ultrasound monitoring
• Nutrition and lifestyle counselling
• Fertility assessment and planning
• Long-term PCOD management

Under expert guidance, women receive care focused on root cause correction and long-term wellbeing, not temporary symptom relief.

PCOD is not a lifelong burden.


With awareness, consistency, and expert guidance, women lead healthy, confident lives.

Early action makes a significant difference.

If you experience irregular periods, hormonal symptoms, or fertility concerns, seeking timely medical advice can prevent years of discomfort and anxiety.

1. Is PCOD permanently curable?
Ans - PCOD is manageable but not permanently curable.

2. Can PCOD improve after pregnancy?
Ans - Symptoms may improve, but lifestyle care remains essential.

3. Can slim women have PCOD?
Ans - Yes. PCOD is not only related to weight.

4. Is PCOD dangerous?
Ans - Not when diagnosed and treated early.

5. Does PCOD always cause infertility?
Ans - No. Most women conceive naturally or with treatment.