We all have currently adapted well to the new normal and working from home. While work from home comes with its own benefits, lack of physical activity and stress can lead to an imbalance of PCOD. PCOD is a common disorder in women of reproductive age group and affects 5% to 10% of women. It is associated with hormone imbalance and problems in metabolism. Though PCOD may cause irregular periods, there is a likelihood that women with PCOS may face fertility or related issues as well. However, the ongoing pandemic, increased stress and lack of physical activity are likely to cause a spike in PCOD conditions.
How can PCOD condition worsen during the pandemic?
Lack of physical mobility has led to a spike in complaints of the irregular menstrual cycle during the pandemic. While the exact causes of PCOD are unknown but certain factors that may play a role include excess insulin, low-grade inflammation, heredity and excess androgen. While working from home, PCOS is also adversely affected by diet, lifestyle and exposure to certain environmental toxins. Insulin Resistance: Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas. Insulin is needed to convert glucose to energy and to control cell growth. It has a key role to play in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins.
Low-grade Inflammation: In some women, eating certain foods, or exposure to certain environmental factors may trigger an inflammatory response. When an inflammatory response is triggered, WBC secrete mediators that may lead to insulin resistance and atherosclerosis.
All these factors contribute to spike in PCOD: irregular /absent menstrual periods, heavy menstrual bleeding, excessive facial and body hair, weight gain and obesity, patches of thick, darkened skin (acanthosis nigricans), particularly on the neck, groin, or underneath the breasts, oily skin and/or acne, insulin resistance and type II diabetes, and infertility due to irregular or absent ovulation
Treatments for PCOD
Daily exercise – Regular exercise has many benefits in treating PCOD. Exercise helps by burning calories, lowering cholesterol levels and building muscle mass, which decreases insulin resistance.
Eating a healthy diet – The ideal diet consist of different kinds of foods from various food groups- good carbohydrates, such as vegetables and fruits; lean meats, such as poultry; fish; and high fibre grains. It is advisable to eat foods that are low in sugar and fat and with a low glycemic index. Low GI foods cause the body to release insulin slowly, making it easier for the body to use food as energy rather than store it as fat. Foods rich in fibre also help control blood sugar levels. Carbohydrates are broken down into sugar, hence they are best eaten in limited amounts. It is better to avoid refined carbs, especially those found in processed foods, especially white flour, rice, potatoes, and sugar. Sugary drinks, including soda and sweetened juices, should be avoided.
Increase your exposure to sunlight by at least sitting and working under the sun for some time.
Weight Loss– this may help to control some of the symptoms of PCOS and help to increase fertility.
The writer is a Consultant Fertility Specialist, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Mumbai.