Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) are the two of the most common health problems related to a woman’s ovaries and the functioning of their hormonal imbalance.
While they may sound the same, but both PCOD and PCOS are different disorders and affect a women’s body differently as well.
To make things easier, we break each down and tell you more about the different between the two.
PCOD vs PCOS: Why And How They Are Different
What is PCOD?
It is a medical condition wherein the ovaries release eggs prematurely and they turn into cysts over time.
As the ovaries get bigger, they start to release higher levels of male hormones in the body. These high levels of male hormones prevent the ovaries from producing hormones and producing the eggs normally.
It is mainly caused by unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as consuming junk food and being overweight.
Result: Irregular periods, obesity, abdominal pain, and male pattern hair loss.
What is PCOS?
If you are suffering from PCOS, chances are that high amounts of male hormones are produced in your body.
In this condition, some eggs develop into cysts. They build up in the ovaries and also at times get enlarged and the abnormally higher amount of androgen interferes with the release of the eggs.
Studies suggest that about 70 per cent of women with PCOS aren’t even diagnosed yet.
Result: Irregularity in ovulation
| PCOD | PCOS | |
| What is PCOD vs PCOS? | PCOD is a specific health condition where ovaries release partially mature or immature eggs and those eggs keep turning into cysts. | The body starts to produce an abnormally higher amount of androgen that interferes with the release of the eggs. |
| Symptoms | Irregular periods, weight gain, abdominal pain | Irregularity in ovulation |
| Disease | Hormonal imbalance | It is an endocrine disorder |
| Fertility | Most women can give birth | Women mostly experience infertility issues |
| Treatment | Good diet and healthy lifestyle | Medical intervention required |
Symptoms of PCOD Vs PCOS
Image courtesy: iStock
Although PCOD is not a disease, it can be credited to hormonal imbalance. But with the right diet and exercise, you can control and manage it.
On the other hand, PCOS is an endocrine or metabolic disorder and requires medical intervention to be treated properly.
Occurrence of PCOD Vs PCOS
PCOD is more common as almost one-third of women around the globe suffer from it.
On the other hand, polycystic ovary syndrome has a lower number of patients. According to a study, about one in five women of reproductive age worldwide have PCOS.
Treatment of PCOD Vs PCOS
There is no cure for PCOS and it does not go away on its own. Treatment is only aimed at reducing the symptoms and preventing further complications.
On the other hand, PCOD can be treated completely. The most effective way to treat it is by making healthy lifestyle changes.
PCOD Vs PCOS: Impact On Pregnancy
Image courtesy: iStock
If you are suffering from PCOD, and stressing about whether you can conceive, here’s some good news for you. In almost 80 per cent of the cases, women can give birth with a little help.
Chances are therefore high for a smooth pregnancy.
On the other hand, if you are suffering from PCOS, conception can be a real challenge due to hormonal irregularities. You need a balanced hormonal cycle that can create an environment for the ovum to release and infuse with the sperm after intercourse.
In this condition, when the androgen levels are very high, conception can become a bit of a challenge. Women suffering from this syndrome are most susceptible to complications in their pregnancies and even miscarriages.
So you need to be extremely cautious before you plan your pregnancy. Consult with your doctor before you plan to start a family.
Follow a healthy diet and a good fitness regime to control the symptoms and improve hormonal imbalances that occur due to PCOD and PCOS. However, if you experience irregular periods, lower abdomen pain, and excessive hair growth, do consult a doctor.
The best treatment for both these symptoms is a timely diagnosis. This will allow you to take necessary actions to help you overcome the syndrome and let you conceive easily.
ALSO READ:
New Research Presents Long Awaited Answer To What Causes PCOS
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS): Everything You Need To Know This Disorder