Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD): A Comprehensive Review of Pathophysiology, Clinical Manifestations, Psychological Impact, and Therapeutic Approaches

Bondili Sadhana*
Pharmaceutical Technology, Kallam Anji Reddy Vocational Junior College, Telangana, India.
Periodicity:January - April'2025
DOI : https://doi.org/10.26634/jls.4.1.22112

Abstract

Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age worldwide. Characterized by hormonal imbalances, metabolic abnormalities, and polycystic ovarian morphology, PCOD is a leading cause of infertility and is associated with numerous systemic and psychological complications. The etiology is multifactorial, involving genetic predisposition, insulin resistance, and environmental influences. Insulin resistance exacerbates hyperandrogenism, disrupting normal follicular development and leading to anovulation. Clinically, PCOD presents with symptoms such as irregular menstruation, excessive facial and body hair, acne, alopecia, obesity, and infertility. Moreover, the disease adversely impacts mental health, contributing to anxiety, depression, and reduced self- esteem. Diagnosis relies on clinical assessment supported by biochemical tests and ultrasound imaging, with the Rotterdam criteria being widely accepted. Untreated PCOD increases the risk of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and endometrial carcinoma. Management focuses on lifestyle interventions, pharmacotherapy, and assisted reproductive technologies designed to meet patient needs. Emerging treatments such as inositol supplementation and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists show promising results. This review aims to provide a detailed understanding of PCOD's pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnostic approaches, complications, and therapeutic options to facilitate early diagnosis and effective multidisciplinary management.

Keywords

Polycystic Ovarian Disease, Hyperandrogenism, Insulin Resistance, Infertility, Mental Health, Metabolic Syndrome, Rotterdam Criteria.

How to Cite this Article?

Sadhana, B. (2025). Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD): A Comprehensive Review of Pathophysiology, Clinical Manifestations, Psychological Impact, and Therapeutic Approaches. i-manager’s Journal on Life Sciences, 4(1), 38-47. https://doi.org/10.26634/jls.4.1.22112

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