PCOD or polycystic ovary disease is a condition which women have enlarged ovaries with small cysts around the edges. It begins during a girl’s teen years and is caused due to hormone imbalance.

There are no specific tests to diagnose PCOD. However, doctors recommend a physical examination to look for excess hair growth and other signs of hormone imbalance. They might also recommend a pelvic exam, an ultrasound, and some blood tests to help determine PCOD.

Apart from missed or irregular periods, the signs of PCOD include:
• Pelvic pain
• Problems in falling asleep
• Thinning of hair on the head
• Mood fluctuations
• Acne
• Infertility
• Hirsutism (unwanted hair growth)
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Weight gain

Both PCOD and PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) affect the ovaries. They cause cyst formation in the ovaries and is caused due to hormone imbalance and other factors like eating junk food. The name PCOD is used when there is ultrasonographic evidence.

Treatment includes a combination of progestin, and birth control pills to regulate the menstrual cycle; medications of spironolactone or eflornithine to reduce hirsutism; medications of metformin or gonadotropins to help women ovulate, and lifestyle changes like eating a low-calorie diet and performing moderate exercises.