Difference Between PCOD and PCOS- Explained

PCOD and PCOS- Do you also use these two terms interchangeably as it sounds the same? Despite the similarities like being related to the ovaries and female hormonal imbalances, there are many significant differences between these two medical conditions which affect a female’s body differently. Let’s have a deeper glance & find out what distinguishes both.

PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) - A Combination of Hormonal disturbance & Genetic Tendencies

PCOD stands for Polycystic Ovarian Disease and is pretty common nowadays in females in which ovaries generate a large number of immature & partially mature eggs during the ovulation period. These partially matured eggs develop into cysts on the ovaries' outer edge over a period of time which leads to swollen and Enlarged ovaries.

In a standard menstrual cycle, ovaries release ready-to-be fertilized eggs and androgen in limited amounts. But in women having PCOD, ovaries release underdeveloped eggs and androgen ( male hormones) in excess amounts which leads to male hair patterns, irregular period cycles, abnormal weight gain, and & infertility in extreme cases only. 

PCOS ( Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) - A Severe Metabolic Disorder 

PCOS known as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a metabolic disorder and a more severe medical condition if we compare it with PCOD. Women between the ages of 12 and 51 are at high risk when it comes to PCOS.

PCOS directly correlates with infertility & it affects the whole endocrine system because it causes ovulation abnormalities to become more common.

Difference Between PCOS & PCOD

Here are the Key differences between these two medical conditions that every woman should be aware of- 

- On the basis of severity: PCOS is a severe condition and difficult to manage, causing severe implications including adverse impact on the endocrine system, whereas PCOD can be managed through Lifestyle and dietary changes.

- Causative factors: PCOS is a debilitating illness & endocrine system issue whereas PCOD is mostly caused due to hormonal imbalance. However, genetics and environmental factors are also taken into account to cause both PCOS and PCOD.

- Complications- PCOS basically affects metabolically and its symptoms start showing at an early age. Women suffering from PCOS are more prone to cardiovascular diseases, obesity & diabetes. There are no such complications with PCOD. 

- Effect on Pregnancy/conceiving Difficulties: PCOD-suffering women can become pregnant with the help of dietary, lifestyle modifications, and medical aids. Whereas, women suffering from PCOS can face many challenges in getting pregnant due to hormone dysregulation.

- Occurrence- PCOD is a very common disorder. 1 out of every 5 women in India is affected by it. The occurrence of PCOS is relatively low as compared to PCOD & needs proper medical attention & surgical treatment.

Preventions 

- Healthy lifestyle & an adequate amount of sleep for around 7-8 hours a day can help to balance the level of hormones in the body & prevent PCOD/PCOS from happening.

- Limiting carbohydrate consumption & maintaining a healthy weight as per your BMI can help you regulate your menstrual cycle, improve your cholesterol level, balances hormones & improve other symptoms related to PCOS & PCOD.

- Dietary modification followed by mild to moderate exercise is found to be beneficial in the treatment of PCOD and PCOS.