Home remedies to control PCOD symptoms

By DR. ANVI DOGRA, Registered Dentist

Polycystic ovary disorder (PCOD), also known as polycystic ovarian syndrome or Stein-Leventhal syndrome, is a complex disorder in which women experience irregular periods and/or the development of a few small cysts (fluid-filled sacs) on one (unilateral) or both ovaries (bilateral ovaries). This is due to the overproduction of male hormones (which is also present in females but in lower quantities) in females. This disorder affects around 7% of women in the world. There are higher chances for women with PCOD to develop type-2 diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, heart diseases and cancer of the uterus. Home treatment with diet, exercise and medicines helps control the symptoms, but there is no cure for this.

Causes of PCOD

Women with PCOD, sometimes referred to as polycystic ovarian syndrome or Stein-Leventhal syndrome, have irregular periods and/or a few tiny cysts (fluid-filled sacs) developing on one or both ovaries. This results from females producing too much male hormone, which is also present in females but in smaller amounts. In the world, approximately 7% of women suffer from this condition. Women with PCOD are more likely to experience excessive blood pressure, heart disease, type-2 diabetes mellitus, and uterine cancer. Although there is no known treatment for this illness, symptoms can be managed with food, exercise, and medication.

Symptoms of PCOD

Below are a few symptoms someone might face if they have PCOD

Period irregularities in the menstrual cycle, even for years at a time, people may go years without having a period. This condition is referred to as amenorrhea.

Acne may start to emerge, or the skin may get greasy

Excessive hair growth on the thighs, stomach, chest, or face

Hair loss on the scalp

There could be areas where the skin is thicker.

Pain in the pelvic region, which includes the uterus, fallopian tubes, cervix, and vagina, which is located beneath the belly.

Obesity or gaining more weight.

Home remedies for PCOD and PCOD problem home treatment

To control the symptoms of PCOD problems, home treatment, lifestyle modifications and a few natural therapies are the major treatments advised. Here are a few of the remedies:

1. Mulethi

Another name for mulethi is licorice. It was discovered to have potential benefits for PCOD management. In addition to acting against androgens, it also increases the synthesis of an enzyme that changes androgen and oestrogen, or the feminine hormone. For two months, you can use a cup of hot water that has been mixed with powdered mulethi root. You can use this brew for extended periods to have longer-lasting effects.

2. Flax Seeds

Research has shown a substance in flaxseeds that helps lower the body’s androgen levels. They resulted in a decrease in PCOS symptoms, such as abnormal body hair growth, which are brought on by elevated androgen levels. It was discovered to aid with weight loss as well. Flaxseeds can be consumed in a way that is good for your health, such as by eating them straight or incorporating them into smoothies and milkshakes.

3. Cinnamon

Cinnamon has a positive influence on insulin receptor function, which is advantageous for women with PCOS. Researchers have also discovered that incorporating more cinnamon into one’s diet will help with irregular menstruation. It can be drunk by mixing it into the water when making tea and drinking it every day. It can also be taken as more concentrated tablets; however, you should speak with your doctor beforehand.

4. Fish oil or omega-3 supplements

Research has indicated that the menstrual cycle can be brought back to regularity by supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids. Nonetheless, there is no alteration in the ovary’s size, number of visible follicles, weight, or haemorrhage. Supplementing with fish oil also showed a reduction in the waist-hip ratio.

5. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera helps restore the levels of a hormone in the ovaries, which is why it is included in formulations to manage PCOS along with several other chemicals. These results were from a study done on animals. Further research is necessary because the precise application of aloe vera gel is unknown.

7. Chasteberry or Nirgundi

The plant nirgundi has a wide range of medical uses. It has comparable effects to oestrogen, lowers testosterone levels, and fights the body’s insulin resistance. As a result, it might benefit PCOS-affected women.

FAQ

What are the other lifestyle modifications that act as pcod solutions?

A balanced diet and weight management can help reduce symptoms of PCOD, such as hair loss, acne, and mood issues. Doctors recommend a balanced diet with healthy nutrients. Weight management can also improve fertility, regulate periods, and reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Achieving a 5-10% weight loss can significantly reduce PCOS symptoms.

What is the medicine for pcod?

Progestin: Synthetic progestins like progestin are frequently prescribed to treat amenorrhea or irregular periods.

Birth control tablets: Some birth control tablets assist in lowering the body’s levels of androgen by containing oestrogen and progestin. In doing so, anovulation is lessened.

Letrozole and clomiphene: These two drugs aid in the induction of ovulation.

Metformin: Metformin helps people lose weight and lessens insulin resistance.