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How to Get Regular Periods with PCOD

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Reviewed By: Dr. Vijaya Madhuri, fertility specialist at Ferty9 Fertility Center, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

It is the most common endocrine disorder, and has a prevalence of 5% to 15% globally. It will affect female reproduction and is more complex, with 70% inherited genes and also involves excess production of androgens (male hormones), which may disrupt the normal menstrual cycle of women and can lead to the development of numerous cysts on the ovaries.

PCOS not only affects the ovaries but also other body systems, particularly body metabolism in women. It is not only associated by significant hormonal imbalances, cyst formation, irregular or absent ovulation, but also impacts metabolism that includes: insulin resistance, weight gain, type 2 diabetes, and high cholesterol levels. This condition is considered severe and also has potential long-term health risks that may include the increased risk of serious health complications such as endometrial cancer.

What is Polycystic ovarian Disorder (PCOD)

This condition when compared to PCOS is mild, and involves the ovary production in a large number of immature or partially mature eggs. These eggs can develop into small and fluid-filled sacs that are called ‘cysts’ present on the ovaries. The presence of these numerous immature follicles might lead to hormonal imbalances that primarily affects estrogen and progesterone levels in the woman.

Women suffering with PCOD may still ovulate, although it might be irregular. It has minimal impact on metabolic health and insulin resistance is not mostly found. The severity with PCOD will be less and can be manageable with lifestyle changes. Proper management in lifestyle and following doctors advice can overcome severe long-term health complications.

Symptoms and signs

  • Irregular menstrual cycle
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Excessive hair growth or hair thinning
  • Obesity or Weight gain
  • Difficulty in getting pregnant (Infertility)
  • Acne or oily skin
  • Darkening of skin or pigmentation
  • Fatigue
  • Emotional distress

How to get periods with PCOD/ PCOS

Having trouble getting periods with PCOD/PCOS? You are not alone. Your lifestyle matters!

Your daily habits like food and sleep can impact your menstrual cycle. Let us understand the connection between lifestyle and fertility to make changes and improve things naturally.

Balanced Diet: Try to add the following foods into your diet that can enhance your period cycle and your chances of conception:

·       Vegetables (Especially Beans and green leaves)

·       Fruits (Especially Avocado and Berries)

·       Fermented and low-fat dairy products

·       Low fat chicken, sea food and eggs

·       Whole grains (Rice, cereals)

·       Nuts and seeds

·       Olive oil and plant-based oils

Dietary habits to avoid when trying to conceive

There are certain food habits that may negatively impact your fertility. These habits include:

·       Processed foods and refined sugars

·       High caffeine intake

·       Alcohol consumption and smoking

·       Carbonated beverages

·       Deep fried foods

Healthy weight for better fertility

Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for better fertility. A balanced diet and regular exercise are essential for hormones and pregnancy success. Underweight or overweight individuals can cause hormonal imbalances, impacting conception success. Losing 5-10% of body weight can significantly impact hormone levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and restore ovulation and regular periods. A combination of diet and exercise can help achieve this goal.

Regular Exercise:

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. This can improve insulin sensitivity, help with weight management, reduce stress, and balance hormones. Activities like brisk walking, jogging, swimming, cycling, and strength training are beneficial. Even incorporating short bursts of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or stress-reducing exercises like yoga and pilates can be helpful.  

·       Adequate Sleep: Prioritize getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Poor sleep can disrupt hormone balance and worsen PCOD symptoms.  

·     Stress Management: Chronic stress can exacerbate hormonal imbalances. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engage in hobbies you enjoy.  

Impact of environmental factors on fertility:

 Air pollutants can disrupt hormonal balance and interfere with foetal development.

 Combination of food with pesticides, heavy metals or any other chemicals.

 Chemicals in cosmetic products.

 Heavy metals in certain makeup or hair dyes.

Medications: When Lifestyle Changes Aren’t Enough

Making changes in the lifestyle alone don’t regulate your periods in some cases. In this situation, your doctor may prescribe medications when these changes are not sufficient:

Menstrual Cycle Management and Supplements

Hormonal medications:

It is the First-line treatment for menstrual cycles, containing estrogen and progestin.

• Helps regulate any bleeding abnormalities every month and reduce androgen production that improve acne, and also protect uterine lining.

• Few medications include birth control pills and other than medicines, patches, vaginal rings, and hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) are also used based on the condition of woman.

Medications for diabetes:

These medications are commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes but can also help women with PCOD, especially those women with insulin resistance.

• Helps regulate blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity.

Anti-Androgen Medications:

These medicines are prescribed to block effects of high androgens like hirsutism (severe body hair) or severe acne (pimples).

• These are used in combination with birth control pills and may help regulate periods.

Medication Supplements:

• Inositol supplements: Improves insulin sensitivity, lowers androgen levels, promotes ovulation and regular periods.

•  Vitamin D: It helps improve insulin sensitivity and menstrual regularity.

•  N-acetylcysteine (NAC): It improves insulin sensitivity and ovulation.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These fatty acids reduce inflammation and improve hormonal balance.

Important Considerations

• Patience and Consistency: To see the changes in the improvement of menstrual cycle, it may take time. Women should keep patience and maintain consistency in the lifestyle and medications advised by the doctors.

• Individualized Approach: The treatment plan should be customized as it depends on various factors and lifestyle management of every woman to specific symptoms and needs.

• Regular Follow-ups: Regular check-ups with gynecologist or endocrinologist.

Conclusion:

In women, getting regular periods with PCOD often requires a combination of healthy lifestyle changes and, in many cases, medical interventions suggested by the doctors. Working closely with your healthcare experts is the key to develop an effective and personalized management plan and that may help reduce the risk of infertility and misconception.


How to Get Regular Periods with PCOD

FAQ's

Can PCOD cause irregular periods?
Yes, PCOD is a primary cause of irregular periods as it is a hormonal disorder in which the ovaries tend to produce excess androgens (male hormones). Elevated male hormone (androgen) levels may disrupt egg maturation and release, leading to irregular periods. Ovaries may develop cysts containing immature eggs, contributing to irregular menstruation.
What are the symptoms of PCOD affecting menstruation?
The symptoms of PCOD can show its effect in various ways, that includes: irregular periods, absence of periods, heavy menstrual bleeding, and painful periods. Periods that are less frequent have less than eight per year, with cycles longer than 35 days. Absence of periods lasts for three months or longer, and irregular periods vary significantly in duration, making it difficult to predict when the next period will occur.
How does weight management influence menstrual cycles in PCOD?
Maintaining a balanced weight is very important for women with PCOD, as insulin resistance can lead to increased androgen production which leads to irregularities in periods. Excess weight, especially abdominal fat, can worsen these issues. Weight loss can improve insulin sensitivity and lower the level of androgens. As a result, PCOD-related complications will also be reduced.
Are there natural remedies to regulate periods with PCOD?
Natural remedies for menstrual irregular periods (PCOD) include a low Glycaemic Index (GI) diet, anti-inflammatory diet, limiting processed foods, herbal supplements, stress management techniques, and enough sleep. These remedies will support overall health and improve PCOD symptoms, but should be discussed with a healthcare provider. Regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity, weight management, and hormonal balance.
What medical treatments are available for menstrual irregularities in PCOD?
Medical treatments for menstrual cycle regulation in female partners may include hormonal control, progestin therapy, diabetic controlling medicines, anti-androgen medicines, and ovulation-promoting medicines. The suitable treatments advised by fertility experts will help to manage symptoms, reduce any long-term complications, and promote regular ovulation and improve chances for pregnancy.
How can lifestyle changes impact period regularity in PCOD?
Lifestyle changes are crucial for managing PCOD and improving period regularity. A balanced diet low in processed and refined sugars, rich in fibre and whole foods, stabilizes blood sugar levels, improves insulin sensitivity, and supports hormonal balance. Regular exercise, weight management, and maintaining a healthy weight are essential factors. Stress management and adequate sleep are crucial for hormonal health, regulating cortisol levels and affecting other hormones involved in the menstrual cycle.
How to get pregnant with PCOS and irregular periods?
Pregnancy with PCOS and irregular periods can be challenging due to disrupted ovulation cycles. To avoid irregular periods, follow a healthy lifestyle, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress reduction. If lifestyle changes aren't enough, medical intervention suggested by fertility experts, timed intercourse, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) can be used. These treatments can help overcome ovulation and fertilization challenges.
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