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Endocrine & Hormonal Imbalances
Question #14581
10 days ago
42

symptoms of pcod or pcos - #14581

Pihu

I am really confused and kind of worried because I’ve been dealing with what seems like the symptoms of pcod or pcos for quite some time now. First off, my periods are all over the place—like some months, they don't come at all and other times, it’s super heavy. And I’ve gained some weight, which I just can’t seem to shake off, especially around my belly. My skin has also changed a lot; I have these weird breakouts that were never an issue before. I went to my doc who said it sounds like the symptoms of pcod or pcos but didn't really explain what that means. I've also read online the symptoms of pcod or pcos can include hair growth in strange places, and yeah, I’ve noticed that too. Even my mood swings are way worse—I’m either too anxious or just really tired for no reason! Has anyone else experienced this? How do you deal with the symptoms of pcod or pcos? I really want to understand if there are any specific treatments or lifestyle changes that help! Maybe someone has some tips on managing symptoms of pcod or pcos because this is honestly getting overwhelming and frustrating. Would love to hear any personal stories or advice! Thanks!

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Doctors’ responses

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Polycystic Ovary Disease (PCOD) are common conditions that affect hormonal levels and the way the ovaries work. Your symptoms, like irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and hair growth in unusual areas, are indeed classic indicators of PCOS. This condition affects the way your ovaries function due to a hormonal imbalance, which can lead to infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods, excess male hormone levels, and polycystic ovaries. This can cause the ovaries to not regularly release eggs, leading to irregular periods. It’s important to confirm the diagnosis through blood tests that check hormone levels and an ultrasound to visualize the ovaries. Treatment typically focuses on managing individual concerns, such as infertility, hirsutism, acne, or obesity. If you’re not trying to get pregnant, hormonal birth control can help regulate your menstrual cycle and reduce androgens (male hormones). Metformin, a medication commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes, can aid in weight loss and menstrual regularity. For excess hair growth, options like electrolysis, laser hair removal, or topical creams might be recommended. Incorporating lifestyle changes is also crucial: a balanced diet and regular physical activity can help manage symptoms by reducing insulin resistance, managing weight, and keeping a steady menstrual cycle. Losing weight might be tough, but even a modest reduction can lead to significant improvements in symptoms. For mood swings, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or consulting a mental health professional can be helpful. It’s vital to follow up with healthcare providers regularly, as PCOS can have long-term health implications like type 2 diabetes or heart disease. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, a healthcare professional can provide more specific guidance that aligns with your health goals. Remember that you’re not alone and there is support out there to help manage these symptoms effectively.

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