What is PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease)?
Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is one of the most common reproductive health hazards in women caused due to a combination of hormonal imbalances and genetic tendencies. In PCOD, your ovaries tend to release premature or immature eggs that might turn into cysts, causing hormonal imbalances. The level of male hormones (androgens) tend to surge in your bloodstream, which may cause complications and side effects, such as abnormal hair growth on the face and body, irregular menstruation, weight gain and infertility in extreme cases. This is what happens in PCOD.
Bilateral Polycystic Ovarian Disease is the condition in which both the ovaries develop cysts, multiplying the complications and side effects of PCOD. Mild PCOD is a condition in which the cysts in the ovaries are either minimal or don’t cause much harm in terms of irregular periods and other health complications.
Did you know:
- PCOS affects an estimated 8-13% of reproductive-aged women, making it a significant public health problem and one of the commonest hormonal disturbances affecting women of reproductive age
- Up to 70% of affected women are undiagnosed
- PCOS is a health problem that affects 1 in 10 women of childbearing age
- PCOS is a leading cause of infertility, and irregular periods, usually with a lack of ovulation, can make it difficult to become pregnant
- Women with PCOS are often insulin resistant, which increases their risk for type 2 diabetes
- PCOS is a chronic condition and cannot be cured. However, some symptoms can be improved through lifestyle changes, medications, and fertility treatments
PCOD and PCOS - Similarities and Differences
Are you wondering what is PCOS and PCOD and is PCOD and PCOS the same? Though referred to interchangeably, PCOD and PCOS are not the same. While PCOD is caused by a combination of hormonal imbalances and genetic predispositions, PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) is a chronic endocrine system disorder that has more serious implications.
The key differences between PCOS and PCOD include:
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PCOD |
PCOS |
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PCOD, or Polycystic Ovary Disorder, is characterized by the production of numerous immature or partially mature eggs in the ovaries, often resulting in the development of ovarian cysts. This condition typically arises due to a combination of hormonal imbalances and genetic predisposition. |
PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is a metabolic-endocrine disorder characterized by elevated levels of male hormones produced by the ovaries. These hormonal imbalances can result in irregular menstrual cycles, acne, and increased hair growth. It's important to note that PCOS is a more severe condition compared to PCOD. |
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Polycystic Ovarian Disease is a moderate and manageable condition |
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a more serious condition |
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Caused due to hormonal imbalances and genetic tendencies |
Caused due to endocrine system dysfunctions |
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10% of global women tend to experience PCOD at some point in their lives |
0.2 to 2.5% of global women tend to experience PCOS at some point in their lives |
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Can be managed by informed lifestyle changes |
Lifestyle changes alone might not suffice |
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External hormone treatment is not needed |
External hormone treatment is a must |
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PCOD may or may not cause fertility problems |
PCOS is a leading cause of infertility in women |
Symptoms of PCOD
In certain instances PCOD problem symptoms might be confused with other healthcare conditions and complications. It is essential to beware of and watch out for some of the widely acknowledged symptoms of PCOD, such as:
- Irregular menstruation
- Heavy period flows
- Acne breakouts on the skin of the face and neck
- Abnormal hair growth in women, giving away a men-like appearance
- Excessive weight gain
- Crown baldness, receding hairline and pattern baldness in females
- Skin darkening
- Headaches
