Snigdha was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) when she was just 14. Being a child at the time and living in a small town with limited awareness about PCOD, she was left in the dark.
“I started menstruating at 13, and for the first year it was pretty normal. After that, I started having clots in my blood, extreme pain, and irregular periods. Sometimes I bled so much that pads weren’t enough to control my flow, so I went to see a gynaecologist, then an endocrinologist, a couple of blood tests, some ultrasound, and I was diagnosed with the incurable PCOD,” the 24-year-old told Financial Express.com.
When she was first diagnosed with PCOD, the news was overwhelming.
“Hearing that there was no definitive cure or treatment left me in shock. What surprised me even more was when my doctor mentioned that many girls have it, as though it was something ordinary. I felt a profound sense of betrayal by my own body, struggling with the pain and confusion that came with it. It was isolating—like no one truly understood what I was going through, and at times, I felt as though I couldn’t even rely on myself,” she revealed. Sadly, she isn’t the only one.
About one-third of all menstruating women around the globe have PCOD, reveals 2023 UNICEF report. According to a study conducted in Southern India and Maharashtra, about 9.13 percent of menstruating women in those regions suffer from PCOS, while 22.5 percent have PCOD.
What is Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD)?
Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is a medical condition in which a woman’s ovaries generate immature or partially mature eggs in large numbers during reproductive age.
According to doctors, these eggs develop into cysts in the ovaries over time. Due to the cysts, ovaries become large and secrete large amounts of male hormones (androgen) which causes infertility problems, irregular periods, unwanted weight gain, and other health issues.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), PCOS can cause hormonal imbalances, irregular periods, excess androgen levels and cysts in the ovaries. Irregular periods, usually with a lack of ovulation, can make it difficult to become pregnant. PCOS is a leading cause of infertility.
The cause of PCOS is unknown but women with a family history or type 2 diabetes are at higher risk.
‘Managing weight is a challenge’
When Snigdha was first diagnosed, she had little understanding of what it meant. “My doctors explained very little, simply labeling it as a “disorder”.
“It wasn’t until I turned 16, during a biology lesson, that my teacher explained what PCOD truly is,” she told Financial Express.com.
One of the most challenging symptoms she faces is the excessive blood loss, sometimes exceeding 100ml a day. “I meticulously track it since I use a menstrual cup, which helps me monitor the flow. Another significant challenge is managing my weight. Due to the severity of my blood loss, I’m restricted from engaging in intense physical activities. My doctors have advised me to stick to yoga or training specifically guided by PCOD-certified experts, ensuring it aligns with my health needs,” she shared.
For Snigdha, there are times when even stepping outside or completing daily tasks feels like an uphill battle.
“On some days, the bleeding is so intense that it feels as though my entire body is on fire, leaving me physically and emotionally drained. Managing work under such conditions can be incredibly challenging, often pushing my resilience to its limits. Throughout most of my teenage years, I struggled with self-hatred and frustration toward my body. My mental health deteriorated to the point where it began affecting my education, friendships, and relationships. I found myself doubting my abilities, withdrawing from social situations, and retreating into silence. I was actually lucky that my friends pushed me into taking therapy, which has helped me a lot,” she told Financial Express.com.
Dr Vandana Gawdi Sr Consultant Obstetrics & Gynecology, Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai told Financial Express.com that PCOD/PCOS is not just a medical condition—it’s a deeply personal journey for many women. At its heart, the syndrome stems from a delicate hormonal imbalance, where the ovaries produce higher-than-normal levels of androgens, commonly referred to as male hormones, she said.
“This disrupts the intricate dance of female hormones, like estrogen and progesterone, which regulate ovulation. As a result, eggs may not mature properly, leading to the formation of fluid-filled sacs or cysts in the ovaries. Beyond hormones, insulin resistance plays a significant role, creating a ripple effect that worsens the imbalance. For many, this journey begins quietly, often unnoticed, until symptoms start to interfere with daily life,” Dr. Gawdi revealed.
Factors like genetics, lifestyle choices, and even environmental stressors add layers of complexity, making it a unique experience for each woman. It’s not just about biology—it’s about understanding how this condition intertwines with every aspect of a woman’s life, she said.
Dr. Gawdi also revealed that early signs of PCOD/PCOS often whisper rather than shout, making them easy to overlook.
“Irregular periods—or sometimes no periods at all—are often the first clue. Imagine the anxiety of not knowing when or if your cycle will show up. Sudden, stubborn weight gain, especially around the belly, can feel like a betrayal of your body, no matter how hard you try to stay healthy,” she told Financial Express.com.
Then there’s the unexpected: excessive facial or body hair growth, which can be emotionally devastating, and acne that feels relentless, stubbornly resisting every cream and treatment.
“Darkened patches of skin on the neck or underarms might seem innocuous but could hint at deeper hormonal imbalances. These signs may feel like isolated nuisances, but they are your body’s way of signaling that something is amiss. Listening to these whispers early on can lead to timely care and a smoother path forward,” she explained.
What are the most common symptoms associated with PCOD/PCOS?
Living with PCOD/PCOS can feel like waging a silent war against your own body. The most common symptoms—irregular periods, weight gain, and hormonal acne—often go far beyond mere inconvenience.
“Irregular cycles can bring a sense of unpredictability and frustration, affecting everything from fertility to emotional well-being. Excessive hair growth in unexpected places and hair thinning where you least expect it can erode confidence and self-worth,” Dr. Gawdi revealed.
On a deeper level, the condition is closely tied to metabolic challenges like insulin resistance, which can lead to long-term risks such as Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
The emotional toll can be equally heavy—feelings of isolation, anxiety, and even depression often accompany the physical struggles. This isn’t just about symptoms; it’s about how they ripple through every facet of life, challenging women to find strength in the face of adversity.
What is the prevalence of PCOD/PCOS in India?
In India, PCOD/PCOS affects nearly 20–25 percent of women of reproductive age, a strikingly high number compared to global statistics, which range between 8–20 percent.
“Here, the unique challenges of a rapidly urbanizing society play a role. The shift towards sedentary lifestyles, high-stress work environments, and diets rich in processed foods has made hormonal imbalances more common. In rural areas, limited healthcare access and societal taboos about discussing reproductive health often delay diagnosis, leaving many women to silently struggle. Compared to developed countries, where awareness campaigns and better healthcare infrastructure empower women to seek help early, India faces a dual burden of stigma and lack of resources,” Dr. Gawdi said.
Yet, there is hope. Increasing conversations around women’s health are slowly breaking barriers, reminding us that every statistic represents real women, each with her own story of resilience, she said.
PCOD and fertility
For many women with PCOD/PCOS, the dream of motherhood feels fraught with uncertainty. Moreover, doctors have told Snigdha that there is a 70 percent chance I might face fertility issues.
“The hormonal imbalances that disrupt ovulation make conception challenging, and this can lead to a deep emotional struggle. But the journey doesn’t end here. Modern medicine offers a spectrum of solutions tailored to individual needs. Lifestyle changes, like embracing a healthier diet and regular exercise, often restore ovulation for many women. For others, medications such as Clomiphene or Letrozole can help the ovaries release eggs,” Dr. Gawdi explained.
Assisted reproductive technologies like IVF have brought the joy of parenthood to countless families. It’s important to remember that the path to fertility is deeply personal and filled with moments of doubt and hope. With the right care and support, many women go on to experience the joy of holding their baby, proving that PCOS is a hurdle, not a full stop, she added.
Is PCOD treatable?
It took Snigdha around 10-12 months to receive a diagnosis. Her world came to an halt when doctors told her that PCOD is incurable.
“I have tried everything: Allopathy, Homeopathy, and Ayurvedic. You name it, I have tried it. I have tried Exercising and dieting as well…For some time, light exercising and meditation worked for me, until it didn’t. It is definitely a challenge to maintain a proper recommended lifestyle, especially if you don’t see any results in a few months,” she told Financial Express.com.
When she bleeds a lot and for months, she is prescribed a medicine that helps in stopping the blood flow. “However, the next time my period occurs after taking this medicine, the bleeding and cramps tend to intensify significantly, making it even more challenging to manage,” she said.
There is awareness, but not enough. Some people say “Loose weight, it will get better”. What people don’t know is, that loosing weight is just a way that might control your PCOD, not magically heal the incurable, she added.
Meanwhile, Dr. Gawdi informed that managing PCOD/PCOS is not about a quick fix; it’s about finding what works for you. Lifestyle changes—like a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management—are the foundation of any treatment plan, helping to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce symptoms.
“Medications, like birth control pills, can regulate cycles, manage acne, and reduce excessive hair growth, offering a sense of normalcy. For insulin resistance, drugs like Metformin are often prescribed, helping to balance blood sugar levels and support weight management. Anti-androgens provide relief from the more visible effects of hormonal imbalance, like unwanted hair growth,” she said.
These treatments, while effective, are not cures but tools to improve quality of life. Each small victory—a regular cycle, clearer skin, or better energy levels—can feel monumental, reminding women that progress is always possible, she added.
Is there any hope for cure?
Recent advancements in PCOD/PCOS research bring a sense of optimism to a condition that has long felt overwhelming, Dr. Gawdi revealed.
“Inositol supplements, particularly Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol, have shown promise in regulating cycles and improving insulin resistance with minimal side effects. Personalized medicine is emerging as a game-changer, using genetic and hormonal profiling to craft tailored treatment plans. Research into the gut microbiome has unveiled a fascinating link between gut health and PCOS, paving the way for innovative treatments using probiotics. While these breakthroughs are exciting, it’s essential to approach them with realistic expectations,” she said.
PCOS management is a journey, but each step forward reminds us that science and determination together can create brighter futures.
‘PCOD/PCOS is more than just a diagnosis’
Snigdha revealed that throughout her diagnosis and journey her family has been her constant support. “My family, especially my mom and dad have really supported me from Day 1, they didn’t know about PCOD, and they tried to learn it from whatever sources they had. My mom is always pushing me to love myself and be confident, and she’s one of the reason I am here. My friends and my boyfriend have been nothing but supportive, from buying me menstrual cups and suggesting therapy to handling my insane mood swings, they have done it all,” she said.
I wish people were kinder to us PCOD girlies. I know a lot of people don’t understand it, but at least you can try, she emphasised.
I wish there is soon a proper medicine or a therapy that could help PCOD, she added.
PCOD/PCOS is a part of life that tests and transforms and it is more than just a diagnosis. While the journey can be challenging, it’s also a reminder of the strength women possess to navigate their health and well-being, Dr. Gawdi pointed out.
“Support, awareness, and timely intervention can make all the difference. To every woman dealing with PCOS: you are not alone, and your story matters. Your journey might have hurdles, but it’s also filled with opportunities to rediscover your resilience and take control of your health,” she added.
If you’ve just been diagnosed with PCOD/PCOS, my advice would be to find a doctor you trust, someone who will actually take the time to explain things to you, Snigdha shared.
“Look up the side effects of any medicine you’re prescribed so you know what to expect—it’s always better to be informed. I know it can feel super overwhelming at first, but trust me, it does get easier to handle. Making small changes to your lifestyle, like eating healthier, managing stress, and doing the right kind of exercise, can make a big difference. And don’t forget to lean on your friends or family when you need to—having support really helps. Take it one step at a time, and be kind to yourself. You’ve got this,” she maintained.