PCOD Vs PCOS

PCOD is a polycystic ovarian disease, while PCOS is a polycystic ovarian syndrome. Both are conditions related to the ovaries. For its proper treatment and management of symptoms, it is necessary to know the differences. Be it related to its symptoms, risks, and treatment. We will see what the differences are in this article. For proper diagnosis, consult your gynaecologist.

PCOD is more common than PCOS. As per the research, PCOS in India ranges from 3.7 to 22.5%, majorly affecting women of reproductive age. Another study was conducted in Southern India and Maharashtra on women who are of childbearing age. It was found that around 9.13% were suffering from PCOS, while 22.5% were from PCOD. It is not only common in India but also globally. But what are PCOD and PCOS?

What is PCOD?

In a healthy menstrual cycle, ready-to-be-fertilized eggs are produced each month alternatively. However, in PCOD, the ovaries release a high amount of immature or partially mature eggs. These partly developed and stored eggs forms cysts in the ovaries. These cyst-like formations increase the production of male hormones resulting in symptoms like irregular periods, abnormal hair growths, etc.

What is PCOS?

It is a common endocrine disorder. In PCOS, there is an excess release of androgens, that is, the male hormones. This makes the eggs prone to become cysts. PCOS has become the primary cause of female infertility in India.  Do you want to know the reason behind PCOS and PCOD?

What are the main causes of PCOS?

Both genetic and environmental factors can cause PCOS or PCOD. An unhealthy diet, a sedentary lifestyle, pollution, and hormone-altering medications can be the reason. Other significant factors could be: -

• High insulin production- High levels of blood sugar make the body insulin-resistant. Insulin resistance in the body can cause fertility issues and hormonal imbalances.
• Inflammation- Females with low-grade inflammation are more likely to have PCOS as it increases the production of androgen. This can lead to heart problems.
• Excessive Androgen production- Insulin resistance and inflammation cause excessive production of androgen. High amounts of male hormones inhibit ovaries from producing eggs.

PCOD or PCOS- which is more dangerous?

PCOS is generally considered more dangerous than PCOD. It can cause more than just fertility-related issues. It induces metabolic syndrome. This increases the risk of heart disease, strokes, and diabetes.  It can even cause endometrial cancer in the later stage.

Common symptoms of PCOS and PCOD

The common symptoms of both PCOS and PCOD are: -

• Irregular or no periods
• Heavy bleeding during periods
• Excess body hair
• Increased facial hair growth
• Fatigue
• Abdominal weight gain
• Obesity
• Pigmentation around the neck
• Sleep disorders
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Infertility

There is no difference between PCOS and PCOD symptoms. To know what you might be suffering from, it is best to visit your gynaecologist. With proper tests and diagnosis, you will get a more accurate picture.

How are PCOS or PCOD diagnosed?

Medical history and physical examination are the way the doctor can diagnose PCOD/PCOS. The methods used for physical examination are: -

• Pelvic examination
• Blood tests to study the hormone levels
• Abdominal ultrasound

Now you are diagnosed with either PCOS or PCOD. Then what. What is the treatment for PCOD and PCOS? Can it be cured permanently?

Treatment for PCOS and PCOD

No, there is no permanent cure. The symptoms of PCOD/PCOS can be controlled by exercising and maintaining a healthy diet. A diet including more foods of low glycaemic index. Even a 5% weight reduction can significantly help in the treatment. Other than these, there is medication as well as surgical treatments for treating these.

Difference between PCOS and PCOD

 Conclusion

PCOS and PCOD are different, and confusion must be avoided. PCOS can cause many more serious complications than PCOD. Nonetheless, with proper diet, medical treatment, and lifestyle changes, both their symptoms can be controlled. If you have PCOD, then there are higher chances of getting pregnant as compared to PCOS. But you do not have to get disheartened; there are many other ways of conceiving.

If you are still confused and want to know more about PCOD or PCOS and related to infertility due to it and the associated treatments, feel free to contact us at +917862800700 or visit our website for more information about Medicover Fertility.

FAQs

Which is curable, PCOD or PCOS?

PCOD is not curable, but its symptoms can be managed with a proper nutritional diet and exercise. It is the same as PCOS well. There is no permanent cure. The treatment focuses on managing the symptoms.

Can I get pregnant with PCOD?

Yes, there are chances of conceiving, even if you have PCOD. There is occasional ovulation that can lead to pregnancy. To get pregnant, a few changes have to be made related to diet and lifestyle.

Is PCOD a serious problem?

There are no serious complications caused by PCOD. Even though it cannot be cured, you can live a relatively normal and active life. This can be done by following a balanced and nutritional diet and regular exercise.

What is the main reason for PCOD?

The main reason for PCOD is a poor lifestyle, which includes food with less or even no nutritional value and a sedentary lifestyle. Obesity, stress, and hormonal imbalance are also aiding reasons.

References

• https://www.unicef.org/india/stories/do-pcod-and-pcos-mean-same-thing-or-are-they-different#:~:text=In%20PCOD%20the%20ovaries%20start,eggs%20prone%20to%20becoming%20cysts.
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6902362/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3742326/
• https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1149/10701.15973ecst/pdf