Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is a common hormonal condition that affects many women of reproductive age. It is often linked with irregular periods, excess androgen (male hormone) levels, weight gain, insulin resistance, acne, and fertility challenges. For women struggling with obesity alongside PCOD, managing symptoms through lifestyle changes alone can feel overwhelming. This is where bariatric surgery may play a meaningful role.
The Link Between PCOD, Weight, and Hormones
Excess body weight, particularly abdominal fat, can worsen insulin resistance. When the body does not respond well to insulin, it produces more of it, which in turn stimulates the ovaries to produce excess androgens. This hormonal imbalance contributes to irregular menstrual cycles, ovulation problems, and symptoms such as facial hair and acne.
Weight loss helps interrupt this cycle, improving insulin sensitivity and restoring hormonal balance. However, sustained weight loss can be difficult to achieve with diet and exercise alone for many women with PCOD.
How Bariatric Surgery Helps
Bariatric surgery supports significant and long-term weight loss by altering the digestive system. Beyond weight reduction, it also triggers important metabolic and hormonal changes that directly benefit women with PCOD.
- Improved Insulin Sensitivity: After bariatric surgery, insulin resistance often improves rapidly, sometimes even before major weight loss occurs. Lower insulin levels reduce excess androgen production, helping normalize hormonal function.
- Regulation of Menstrual Cycles: Many women experience more regular periods within months of surgery. As hormone levels stabilize, ovulation becomes more consistent, which is particularly important for those trying to conceive.
- Reduction in Androgen-Related Symptoms: Lower androgen levels can lead to noticeable improvements in acne, oily skin, and excessive facial or body hair over time.
- Enhanced Fertility Outcomes: By restoring ovulation and improving overall hormonal health, bariatric surgery may increase natural fertility in women with PCOD. Many patients who previously struggled to conceive are able to do so after achieving stable weight loss.
Benefits Beyond Reproductive Health
PCOD is associated with long-term health risks such as type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, fatty liver disease, and cardiovascular issues. Bariatric surgery can significantly reduce these risks by improving metabolic health, blood sugar control, and inflammation levels.
Women often report better energy levels, improved self-confidence, and enhanced quality of life following surgery. These are factors that also support emotional and mental well-being.
Expert Bariatric Care at Asian Bariatrics
At Asian Bariatrics Private Limited, women with PCOD receive personalized, evidence-based bariatric care under the guidance of Dr. Mahendra Narwaria, a highly experienced bariatric surgeon known for his patient-centric approach and advanced surgical expertise.
Dr. Narwaria and his multidisciplinary team focus not only on weight loss, but also on improving hormonal health, fertility potential, and long-term wellness, especially for women dealing with PCOD and metabolic disorders.
If PCOD symptoms are affecting your health, confidence, or fertility, and weight loss has been a constant struggle, bariatric surgery may be an effective solution as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Mahendra Narwaria at Asian Bariatrics Private Limited to understand whether bariatric surgery is right for you.
Dr. Mahendra Narwaria is a pioneer in laparoscopic bariatric surgery in India with over 25 years of experience and 10000 plus surgeries performed. His practice, Asian Bariatrics Private Limited located in Ahmedabad, is recognised as a bariatric surgery Centre of Excellence and his patients have access to all bariatric surgical procedures under his supervision.