In India, there has been an increase in cases of PCOD/PCOS. One in five Indian women suffers from PCOS. These disorders are both common in Indian women as well as women living in other parts of the world. This topic is not as openly discussed as other diseases. It is essential to know the difference between PCOS and PCOD.
We often use PCOS and PCOD interchangeably because they affect the ovaries and can cause hormonal disturbances. But they can be confusing.
In this Article
General Introduction PCOS and PCOD
Two ovaries are present in women. They release eggs every other month. Ovaries also produce hormones that regulate menstruation, determine fertility, and impact women’s overall health. PCOS and PCOD can cause the same symptoms, making it easy to confuse women.
Lifestyle changes often cause women’s bodies negatively. Usually, women reach puberty as a millennial between 13 and 19 years old. Females post-millennial have had their first period between ten and sixteen years. Recently, this trend has changed. Children as young as seven have experienced puberty. Women have also noticed a shift in their menopause. Young women in their 30s are experiencing menopause. We live in an unpredictable biological age, it is true.
What is PCOD?
Every month, the ovaries release two eggs in a woman. The ovaries produce tiny amounts of androgens or male hormones. PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) occurs when the ovaries produce many partially mature or immature eggs that eventually become cysts. The most common symptoms include abdominal weight gain, irregular periods, and male pattern hair loss. This condition causes the ovaries to become larger and produce large quantities of androgens. This can affect a woman’s fertility as well as her body. The best treatment option for PCOD is to reduce its severity.
What is PCOS?
Women with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) have higher levels of androgen in their ovaries, which can interfere with the development and release of eggs. Cysts are tiny sacs containing a liquid that forms from eggs. These cysts are not released during ovulation. Instead, they build up in the ovaries.
Difference between PCOS and PCOD
Fertility: PCOD has no significant effect on fertility, so PCOD is still a good option for most women. Infertility can be a severe problem for women with PCOS. Even if you can conceive naturally, there is still a risk of miscarriage, complications, and premature birth.
Impact of Pregnancy: Many PCOS sufferers have difficulty getting pregnant because of infertility and lack of ovulation. The likelihood of miscarriage increases threefold, as well as the risk of preeclampsia and premature delivery, non-elective cesareans, and gestational diabetes.
However, PCOD does not cause infertility. Most women with PCOD can have a normal pregnancy if they make healthy lifestyle changes.
Complications: Other than infertility and increased pregnancy risks, PCOS can lead to obesity and diabetes, high blood sugar and low cholesterol, endometrial carcinoma due to delayed ovulation, and non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis (an enlarged or inflamed liver).
Causative Factors: PCOS disorder is related to the endocrine, but hormonal imbalance is the major cause of PCOD. Numerous studies have shown that both the imbalance of hormones and genetic factors play a significant role in these conditions. High levels of male hormones can prevent the development of hormones and eggs by preventing ovaries from normalizing their function. Excessive androgen production is also associated with insulin resistance and inflammation.
Health problems: PCOD is a condition that causes women to experience minor health problems. A woman diagnosed with PCOS may experience high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, breast cancer, and heart disease.
Management: PCOD symptoms can often manage with healthy eating, exercise, and lifestyle changes. PCOS is more severe and requires medical intervention.
The gravity of symptoms: Both PCOS and PCOD share some similar symptoms. However, PCOS sufferers experience more severe and prominent symptoms. PCOS symptoms are more common in younger women than PCOD.
Also, Read the next article: Most Common Causes Of Female Infertility?
Which is more harmful: PCOS or PCOD?
It is possible to think of PCOD as a hormonal imbalance. PCOS, on the other hand, is caused by hormonal imbalances. PCOS is therefore considered to be more dangerous.
Because PCOD is a sign of poor lifestyle choices, regular exercise, meditation, healthier eating habits, and better sleep patterns can help manage it. PCOS is a metabolic disorder that can treat with medical attention and surgery.
Conclusion
Although PCOS and PCOD can be associated with hormonal imbalances or ovarian health and share some symptoms, they are different. You will receive the best treatment, one needing medication and the other requiring only natural remedies.
Healthy lifestyles are vital to preventing and treating hormonal imbalances that these conditions can cause. If you still have questions or want to learn more about PCOD, PCOS, and infertility, please get in touch with a Gynecologist Doctor in Patna.
FAQs
How to confirm PCOS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. While there’s no single definitive test, a combination of factors can help confirm PCOS.
How is POS detected
To diagnose PCOS, your doctor will typically:
Conduct a physical exam: Checking for signs like excess hair growth, acne, and weight gain.
Review your medical history: Including menstrual cycles, fertility issues, and family history.
Perform blood tests: To measure hormone levels (like testosterone, LH, and FSH) and rule out other conditions.
Order an ultrasound: To check for enlarged ovaries with small cysts.
PCOS belly shape
There’s no specific “PCOS belly shape.” However, many women with PCOS tend to carry excess weight around their midsection, leading to an apple-shaped body.
Belly fat and PCOS
Many women with PCOS experience belly fat accumulation. While not every woman with PCOS has belly fat, it’s a common symptom. Insulin resistance, often associated with PCOS, can contribute to this.
How to check PCOS in ultrasound report?
An ultrasound report for PCOS will typically show:
Enlarged ovaries: Larger than normal ovaries.
Polycystic ovaries: Presence of multiple small cysts on the ovaries.
Thickened uterine lining: This might be present if you have irregular periods.
Note: An ultrasound alone cannot confirm PCOS. It’s one part of the diagnostic process.
PCOD or PCOS which is more dangerous
PCOS is more serious than PCOD. It involves hormonal imbalances and can lead to long-term health issues like diabetes and heart disease.
Difference between PCOS and PCOD symptoms
There’s no significant difference between PCOS and PCOD symptoms. Both terms refer to the same condition. The symptoms typically include irregular periods, excess androgen (male hormone) levels, and polycystic ovaries.
Remember: If you’re experiencing symptoms of PCOS, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
