What is Polycystic ovary syndrome-Disease -PCOS or PCOD-

POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME-DISEASE -PCOS OR PCOD- Meaning

Polycystic ovary syndrome/Disease (PCOS or PCOD) is a common gynaecological problem, which may lead to period problems, acne, weight gain and excess hair growth and infertility in women. A healthy lifestyle is particularly important to lower the chance of long term problems associated with this condition.

There are two ovaries in a healthy woman. These lie on either side of the womb (uterus). They make eggs that are released every month from alternate ovaries. Hormones are chemicals that regulate the ovulation or release of the eggs. The main hormones that are made in the ovaries are oestrogen and progesterone. The ovaries also normally make small amounts of male hormones such as testosterone.

You may have PCOS if you have at least two of the following problems –

• Presence of multiple cysts (fluid filled blisters) in the ovaries. The term polycystic means many cysts
• Altered balance of the female hormones. The ovaries make more than normal of the male hormone testosterone.
• Absence of ovulation every month and scanty bleeding or irregular periods.

Ayurveda classifies PCOS as a kapha dosha disorder. Vata is responsible for the movement of the hormones and pitta is responsible for the hormonal balance. PCOS is caused when kapha blocks vata and pitta.²