PCOS and PCOD
Key Difference Between PCOS and PCOD You Must Know
The difference between PCOS and PCOD is important for many women who are trying to understand their reproductive health. Both of these terms are commonly used around irregular periods, hormonal imbalance, and fertility issues but they are not exactly the same. It’s important to know how these conditions can affect women of every age group. There are many women who are facing issues related to hormonal health, and that’s where PCOS and PCOD comes in.
What is PCOS?
The full form of PCOS is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. This is a condition that affects how a woman’s ovaries work. It is mainly caused by hormonal imbalance, when the body starts making more male hormones (called androgens) than normal. Additionally, this can affect the regular release of eggs during the menstrual cycle.
In PCOS, small fluid-filled sacs which are known as cysts, may develop on the ovaries. These cysts are actually immature eggs that haven’t been released. This is why there are many women with PCOS who experience irregular periods, difficulty in getting pregnant, acne, or unwanted facial hair.
What is PCOD?
The full form of PCOD is Polycystic Ovarian Disease. It happens when a woman’s ovaries produce many immature or partially mature eggs, which over time can turn into small cysts. These cysts can also lead to changes in hormone levels, especially an increase in male hormones (androgens). These may also cause symptoms like irregular periods, weight gain, and skin problems like acne.
PCOD is more common and is less serious. It mostly happens because of unhealthy lifestyle habits, poor diet, and stress. It’s important to eat the right foods, do regular exercise, and medical guidance.
Key Difference Between PCOS and PCOD
PCOS and PCOD sound similar but they are not exactly the same. It’s important to know both these conditions can affect the ovaries and can also cause hormonal problems. However, the way they affect the body and overall health is quite different. It’s important to understand the key difference between PCOS and PCOD to choose the right treatment and manage the condition better.
| Feature | PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) | PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) |
| Nature of Condition | Hormonal disorder | Ovarian condition |
| Severity | More serious and long-term | Milder and manageable |
| Egg Release | Eggs may not release at all (anovulation) | Eggs are released late or irregularly |
| Fertility Impact | Higher chances of infertility | Less impact; many women can still conceive |
| Hormonal Imbalance | More severe, affects multiple systems | Usually limited to the ovaries |
| Associated Health Risks | Linked with diabetes, heart disease, obesity, etc. | Rarely linked with long-term health risks |
| Menstrual Cycle | Often very irregular or absent | Irregular, but not always absent |
| Treatment Need | May require medical and hormonal treatment | Often improves with lifestyle changes |
Common Symptoms of PCOS and PCOD
PCOS and PCOD may be different in many ways but they have some common symptoms because both conditions happen because of hormone imbalances and issues in the ovaries. These symptoms might not be the same for every woman and they can also vary in severity. There are many differences between PCOS and PCOD but it’s also important to know about the signs that can be seen in these conditions:
One of the most common signs is missed or delayed periods. There are some women who may have periods only a few times a year or not at all.
- Weight Gain
There are many women who may notice sudden weight gain or have issues losing weight, especially around the belly area.
- Acne and Oily Skin
Hormonal imbalance can cause more pimples, especially on the face, chest, and back. The skin may also feel oilier than usual.
- Excess Hair Growth (Hirsutism)
Some women may also grow thick or dark hair on areas like the chin, upper lip, chest, or stomach due to increased male hormones.
- Hair Thinning or Hair Loss
On the scalp, hair may become thin or start falling out and can lead to patchy or overall hair loss.
- Fatigue and Low Energy
Women may also feel tired even after rest is common in both conditions, especially when hormones are not balanced.
- Mood Swings or Anxiety
Hormonal shifts can affect emotional health too and can lead to stress, mood changes, or even depression in some cases.
- Difficulty Getting Pregnant
Women may face issues with ovulation that can make it harder to conceive, though many women do eventually get pregnant with the right guidance.
Causes and Risk Factors
PCOS and PCOD mostly happen because of changes in hormones, family history, and daily habits. These problems are becoming more common these days because many people eat unhealthy food, don’t exercise enough, and have a lot of stress. However, the exact cause is not known but there are some known reasons that can increase the chances of getting these conditions.
Here are some common causes and risk factors:
- Hormonal Imbalance
- Insulin Resistance
- Genetics
- Obesity or Being Overweight
- Unhealthy Lifestyle
- Stress
Diagnosis and Tests
There is no test that can clearly say if you have PCOS or PCOD. Doctors will check your symptoms, ask about your health history, and do a few tests to find out. If your periods are not regular, you’re gaining weight quickly, or you have more pimples or facial hair then your doctor might suggest testing for PCOS or PCOD.
To diagnose these problems, doctors usually follow a few simple steps:
- Medical History and Symptoms
The doctor will ask about your periods, weight changes, skin issues, hair growth, and any family history of similar problems.
- Physical Examination
They may check your weight, blood pressure, and signs of extra hair or acne on the body.
- Ultrasound (Pelvic Scan)
This test will check your ovaries and uterus. It helps the doctor to see if there are multiple small cysts in the ovaries or any other changes.
- Blood Tests
These tests check hormone levels, blood sugar, insulin, and cholesterol. It helps to understand if there is a hormonal imbalance or other health issues related to PCOS or PCOD.
Treatment and Management
There is no complete cure for PCOS or PCOD but both can be managed with the right treatment. The treatment depends on your symptoms, age, and whether you’re trying to get pregnant. We know the difference between PCOS and PCOD and now we will see how to manage PCOS and PCOD.
Here are some simple ways to manage PCOS and PCOD:
- Healthy Diet: Eat fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and less sugar to control weight and balance hormones.
- Regular Exercise: Walk daily, yoga, or do any physical activity to reduce weight, lower insulin levels, and improve mood.
- Weight Management: It’s important to lose weight can make a difference in hormone levels and help to manage periods.
- Medicines: Your doctor may give you hormone pills to manage periods or treat acne and hair growth. There are other medicines that may help you ovulate if you’re trying to get pregnant.
- Managing Stress: It’s important to reduce stress through meditation, hobbies, or relaxation to help improve the symptoms.
- Routine Check-ups: It’s important to regularly visit your doctor and do blood tests to keep track of your hormone levels and overall health.
Final Words
It’s important to understand the difference between PCOS and PCOD because these can affect your health in different ways. Following healthy habits and regularly visiting your doctor is key to managing these conditions. If you notice any symptoms, don’t wait—consult a trusted specialist. You can reach out to Dr. Rita Bakshi, Senior Best Gynecologist and Obstetrics in Delhi,India for expert advice and personalized care. Eat healthy, exercise, and follow your treatment plan to stay strong and healthy for the future.