Are PCOD and PCOS related terms? Many women are confused about the distinction between the two, frequently using the terms interchangeably, especially when seeking to understand the relationship between PCOS and PCOD, which is common.

Despite the similarities, such as the fact that both illnesses affect the ovaries and produce hormonal abnormalities, they are quite distinct.

Now, let’s take a closer look at these two circumstances and discover what sets them apart.

What is PCOD?

PCOD is a disorder in which the ovaries produce and release an excessively large number of immature eggs throughout the ovulation cycle, causing irregular menstrual periods. As a result of the eggs being stuck within the ovary, the quantity of eggs generated over time rises.

Cysts develop in the ovary from partially developed and stored eggs in the ovaries, which may appear to be benign. These cyst-like structures in the body also increase androgen levels.

What is PCOS?

PCOS is the most commonly diagnosed medical disorder. It occurs when the body’s hormones are out of balance. It’s easy to mistake this for PCOD, which has a similarly unclear definition. The development of cysts in the ovaries is not always the source of hormonal imbalance in PCOS.

Women aged 12 to 51 are most likely to have PCOS. PCOS is closely related to infertility, in part because it increases the prevalence of ovulation irregularities. According to new research, infertility is the leading cause of women’s reproductive issues, particularly in India.

What Distinguishes PCOD From PCOS

PCOS is a severe condition that can lead to infertility. However, PCOS is a metabolic illness.

• Factors of Cause

PCOD is a condition caused by a hormonal imbalance, whereas Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is an endocrine system disorder. Hormonal imbalances and genetics are regarded to be major contributing factors in both disorders.

As per studies, large levels of male hormones prevent ovaries from producing hormones and eggs properly. Excess testosterone production has been linked to insulin resistance and inflammation.

• Effects on Pregnancy

While Polycystic Ovarian Disease is for sure a major disorder, it does not prevent all women from conceiving and should not be viewed as a barrier to pregnancy.

In fact, approximately 80% of the time, women may get pregnant with little assistance and have a smooth pregnancy.

However, women with PCOS may struggle to conceive because of hormonal irregularities.

And, in such cases, if you wish to get pregnant then you’ll need well-balanced hormonal cycles that allow the ovum to discharge and integrate with the sperm following intercourse.

The excess levels of androgens in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome may make conception difficult for persons suffering from it.

Causes

• Causes of PCOD

The specific cause of PCOD is yet unknown. However, studies have established a relationship between PCOD and high amounts of male hormones (Hyperandrogenism) as well as low-grade inflammation, excess insulin and genetics.

Other factors that contribute to PCOD include early menarche, pollution and poor lifestyle.

• Causes of PCOS

While the exact cause of PCOS is yet to be determined, some of the factors that cause PCOS include:

Increased Testosterone Levels: When insulin and luteinizing hormone levels rise, male hormones are overproduced and cause a disturbance in ovulation thus giving rise to PCOS.

Rise in Luteinizing Hormone: The pituitary gland in males secretes luteinizing hormone which assists in ovulation, corpus luteum formation and male hormone synthesis. As luteinizing hormone levels grow, male hormones become unbalanced.

Increased Prolactin Levels: Prolactin is a hormone that stimulates milk production after delivery. Hormonal imbalance is caused by an overabundance of this hormone, which reduces oestrogen levels.

Treatment Options

In order to treat PCOS and PCOD problems, hormonal equilibrium must be achieved by addressing the many symptoms of the two illnesses, such as irregular periods or hormone imbalance.

• Surgery

Ovarian drilling is a laparoscopic technique for eliminating ovarian cysts that produce hormones linked with masculinity in women.

Women who have attempted and failed to resolve fertility-related concerns may seek laparoscopy as a last option. Cancerous cysts and endometrial carcinoma necessitate a hysterectomy.

• Fertility Treatment

IVF (in vitro fertilization) and artificial insemination are reproductive treatments for women with PCOS or PCOD.

In these treatments, embryos are put into mothers’ wombs after the egg has been fertilized in a lab using sperm.

These treatments are reserved for people with PCOD or polycystic ovarian syndrome whose medications and procedures have failed.

When to See a Doctor?

It’s best to see a doctor when you suffer from any of the following: excessive bleeding, infertility, irregular periods, obesity, abnormal weight gain, acne on the face or body, ovarian cysts, hirsutism, missing periods (amenorrhea) or pelvic pain.

Conclusion

Maintaining optimum health is essential for preventing and treating hormone imbalances and disorders. The most effective treatment for PCOD and PCOS is early detection and implementation of the essential steps to overcome the condition and pave the way to a healthy pregnancy.