What is Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD)?
PCOD (also known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or PCOS) is a condition affecting the ovaries that can produce symptoms related to a woman’s menstrual cycle, fertility, hormones, insulin production, heart, blood vessels and appearance. PCOD is the most common hormonal reproductive problem in women of childbearing age. An estimated five to 10 percent of women of childbearing age have PCOD. Women with PCOD have: • High levels of male hormones (androgens) • An irregular or no menstrual cycle • Many small cysts (fluid-filled sacs) in their ovaries (although this may not always be the case) What are the causes of Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD)? The exact cause of PCOD is not known. Women with PCOD frequently have a mother or sister with PCOD. But there is not yet enough evidence to say there is a genetic link to this disorder. Many women with PCOD have a weight problem. So researchers are looking at the relationship between PCOD and the body’s ability to make insulin. Insulin is a hormone
