Two different conditions influence women’s hormone and reproductive health: PCOS and PCOD. Despite this, many individuals confuse these terms or use them interchangeably. In actuality, despite many similarities, they are two distinct conditions.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Polycystic Ovary Disorder (PCOD) are two terms often used interchangeably, leading to confusion among individuals trying to understand these conditions.
In this blog, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatments of PCOD and PCOS, explained by the leading nutritionist in Bangalore, dispelling any confusion you may have had regarding the differences between PCOS and PCOD.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Polycystic Ovary Disorder (PCOD) are two terms often used interchangeably, leading to confusion among individuals trying to understand these conditions.
What is PCOD?
Polycystic Ovarian Disease, or PCOD for short, is a long-term medical condition in which your two ovaries gradually generate immature or partially mature eggs, which build up to a significant quantity. These eventually develop into ovarian cysts, which enlarge the ovaries. Your ovaries release more male hormones as a result, which can lead to infertility, abnormal weight gain, irregular menstruation periods, and hair loss.
Each month, one of your ovaries typically releases fully developed, viable eggs. However, this mature egg release is eliminated when you have PCOD, and your ovaries will frequently release immature eggs. Furthermore, a person with PCOD produces abnormal amounts of androgen, a male hormone that is ordinarily secreted in tiny amounts during each cycle, explains the best nutritionist in Bangalore.
What is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, or PCOS, is a metabolic disorder that can impact women between the ages of 12 and 51 by generating an imbalance in hormones during their reproductive years. Outside your ovaries is a cluster or collection of tiny fluid sacs called cysts associated with this dangerous medical disease. Follicles, or immature eggs, are found inside the cysts but cannot release eggs regularly.
In addition to the increased production of the male hormones androgens, this medical disorder produces many hormonal imbalances that disrupt your menstrual cycle and cause irregular or absent periods for several months.
Common Signs of PCOD and PCOS:
Irregular Menstrual Cycles
One of the primary indicators of both PCOS and PCOD is irregular periods. Women may experience unpredictable menstrual cycles, including prolonged or absent periods.
Ovulatory Dysfunction
Both conditions can disrupt regular ovulation, leading to fertility issues for those trying to conceive.
Hormonal Imbalances
Elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) are common in PCOS and PCOD, causing symptoms such as acne, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), and male-pattern baldness.
Cyst Formation
Though the type and form of these cysts can differ between PCOS and PCOD, having many cysts on the ovaries is a common feature.
Insulin Resistance
Many individuals with PCOS and PCOD may experience insulin resistance, leading to elevated blood sugar levels and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Causes of PCOS and PCOD
PCOS
The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors contribute to its development. Insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances play an important role in the manifestation of PCOS.
PCOD
PCOD is often linked to hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance as well. Genetic factors, sedentary lifestyles, and poor dietary choices may contribute to the development of PCOD.
Top 10 Differences between PCOS and PCOD
1. Definition
PCOS: A syndrome characterized by a set of symptoms related to hormonal imbalances and ovarian dysfunction.
PCOD: A disorder characterized by multiple cysts on the ovaries.
2. Cyst Appearance
PCOS: Cysts in PCOS are typically small and located around the ovaries’ periphery.
PCOD: Cysts in PCOD are usually larger and distributed throughout the ovaries.
3. Insulin Resistance
PCOS: Insulin resistance is a standard feature that contributes to metabolic issues.
PCOD: Insulin resistance is often associated with PCOD, leading to increased blood sugar levels.
4. Symptom Severity
PCOS: Symptoms can vary widely in severity, and some individuals may be asymptomatic.
PCOD: Symptoms are often more pronounced, with visible signs such as irregular periods and hirsutism.
5. Fertility Impact
PCOS: While PCOS can affect fertility, not all individuals with PCOS experience fertility issues.
PCOD: Fertility issues are more commonly associated with PCOD due to disrupted ovulation.
6. Hormonal Imbalances
PCOS: Elevated androgens are a common hormonal imbalance, leading to symptoms like acne and hirsutism.
PCOD: Hormonal imbalances are also present, but the symptoms may differ in intensity and manifestation.
7. Associated Health Risks
PCOS: Increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndrome.
PCOD: Higher susceptibility to diabetes and metabolic disorders.
8. Weight Connection
PCOS: Weight gain is common, and obesity may exacerbate symptoms.
PCOD: Obesity is often associated with PCOD, but not all individuals with PCOD are overweight.
9. Age of Onset
PCOS: Symptoms may appear during adolescence or early adulthood.
PCOD: Often diagnosed during the reproductive years, with symptoms appearing earlier than PCOS in some cases.
10. Diagnostic Criteria
PCOS: Diagnosed based on the Rotterdam criteria, which include at least two of the following: irregular periods, elevated androgens, and cysts on the ovaries.
PCOD: Diagnosed primarily through ultrasound imaging showing multiple cysts on the ovaries.
Understanding the basic differences between PCOS and PCOD is important for precise diagnosis and focused treatment. The top nutritionist in Bangalore prioritizes a systematic strategy, having dietary adjustments, lifestyle adjustments, and tailored interventions to cater to the distinct requirements of those coping with these ailments. Understanding the differences between PCOS and PCOD can help people make more informed decisions about their health and well-being as a whole. Keep in mind that aggressive management of these illnesses and early discovery can substantially impact long-term health outcomes.