What is the difference between PCOS and PCOD?

 PCOD vs PCOS- Are PCOD and PCOS the same?

The words PCOD and PCOS refer to the same condition. Hence, there is no difference between PCOS and PCOD. The full forms of PCOD and PCOS are Polycystic Ovary Disease and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, respectively. PCOD is an outdated name, while PCOS is the most recent one that accurately reflects the medical community's current understanding of polycystic ovaries and their causes. PCOS is a hormonal condition which affects women of reproductive age. The Cleveland Clinic estimates that up to 15% of women of reproductive age may have PCOS. 

So what distinguishes a syndrome from a disease? A syndrome is a collection of distinct symptoms for which the underlying reason is quite unclear and not fully understood, as they are multiple or varied. Any condition can be referred to as a disease when the underlying cause is understood clearly. For instance, there is a reasonable degree of certainty that the bacteria known as Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes tuberculosis.1 While the term "Metabolic Syndrome" is used for a combination of diabetes, obesity and blood pressure, with causes ranging from genetics, lifestyle, etc. 

PCOS can develop at any time in a woman during her reproductive years. PCOS can affect some women in the first few years after puberty when they start menstruating, but it can also appear later in life. Missed periods or PCOS can happen because of excessive weight gain. If PCOS runs in your family, you run a higher risk of developing it yourself. For instance, there is a possibility that you will develop it if your mother or sister has it or has had it.

What are the causes of PCOD/PCOS?

The most common cause of PCOD/PCOS is poor lifestyle choices, such as poor eating habits, a lack of physical activity, an irregular sleep cycle, unmanaged stress, nutrient deficiencies, genetic predisposition, and so on. PCOD/PCOS is caused frequently by irregular, infrequent, or absent menstrual cycles. An indication of PCOD/PCOS or an underlying problem may be a 35-day or greater interval between periods or fewer than nine periods per year.

Similarly, women with PCOS may experience acne, facial hair, male pattern baldness, hair loss, and other symptoms. Some people may have regular menstrual cycles but still, have the following symptoms. Others might not experience similar symptoms, although they might experience irregular menstrual cycles. Due to the link between male hormones and fat, PCOS can also be caused by weight gain and excess fat tissues in the body. Finally, one can develop PCOD/PCOS also due to stress levels, sleep deprivation, and poor nutrition.2

Which is more complicated - PCOD or PCOS?

There is no difference between PCOD and PCOS, doctors frequently use these terms interchangeably. Please stop panicking or worrying that something must be more severe than another just because someone has used the term PCOD instead of PCOS. These names have absolutely nothing to do with their severity. The severity of your personal PCOD/PCOS depends on your blood results, the number of polycystic ovaries on Sonography (if so how much) and any additional symptoms you may experience, such as an increased BMI, central obesity, ache, hair loss, facial hair, and so on. 

PCOD/PCOS problem in future:

Women with PCOS should periodically check their health to avoid developing PCOS problem symptoms in the future. Patients with PCOS, if left untreated, may develop type 2 diabetes, obesity, and other mental health issues due to hormonal imbalance.

Pregnancy complications and infertility are a part of the PCOS problem after marriage. The reason is that PCOD can occasionally affect women who have regular periods. In such circumstances, they might not be aware that they have PCOS unless they diagnose the other PCOS symptoms. As a result, PCOS is frequently found after marriage when women are planning to conceive a child. Early detection of PCOS is critical to avoid the stress caused by such unfavourable circumstances. If the disease is detected early, it can be managed effectively to overcome these situations. 

If PCOS is left untreated, it can also result in severe complications like hypertension, hyperglycemia, endometrial cancer, and pregnancy-related problems like premature births, preeclampsia, miscarriage and predisposing the unborn child to diabetes.3

Is PCOD or PCOS curable?

PCOS is caused mainly due to poor lifestyle choices, obesity, stress, and hormonal imbalance in the body. In reality, PCOS is quite common. PCOS affects up to 15% of women of reproductive age. Therefore, you can find comfort in knowing that you are not alone and that PCOS is a treatable condition if you think you may have it or have already received a diagnosis for it. It is easier to diagnose PCOS if you are aware of the signs and symptoms. It is yet unclear what exactly is causing these symptoms. Weight loss, a nutritious diet, avoiding junk food and processed foods, and regular exercise are all effective treatments for PCOD or PCOS.4

How can I reduce PCOD/PCOS naturally?

There are many alternatives for managing PCOS naturally, whether the person is single or married. But before choosing a treatment option, you should always consult your doctor. Below is a list of a few natural ways to treat PCOS.

• Dietary changes - By consuming a balanced diet and avoiding specific items, you might be able to manage your symptoms. A nutritious diet may help you control your hormones and menstrual cycle. Consuming processed and highly preserved foods can make you more prone to inflammation and insulin resistance.

• Probiotics - Probiotics are helpful for more than just digestion and gut health. They might significantly affect the management of PCOS. Additionally, they can reduce inflammation and regulate sex-related hormones like androgen and estrogen. Consider drinking kombucha and kimchi, two foods and beverages high in probiotics.

• Weight management - In addition to reducing insulin resistance and lowering your risk of PCOS-related problems, maintaining a healthy weight can also help you control your menstrual cycle. According to some studies, a low-calorie diet that promotes gradual excess weight loss may be an effective first-line PCOS treatment if you are overweight. 

• Exercises - Exercise is necessary to maintain a healthy weight. However, excessive physical activity may interfere with your hormones, so talk to your doctor about finding the right balance. You have many options, including walking, yoga, Pilates, swimming, and aerobics. Long-distance running and high-intensity training may also help lessen PCOS symptoms. 

• Stress reduction - Reducing stress can help control the cortisol levels in the body. Stress reduction methods include yoga, getting enough sleep, and consuming less caffeine. You might feel less stressed if you go for a walk outside and schedule some time for rest and self-care.

How to cure PCOD/PCOS problems permanently? 

Unfortunately, there is no long-term cure for PCOS. The good news is that by making the necessary diet adjustments, lifestyle changes, doing physical exercise, etc., you can still control them. Early detection of PCOD/PCOS is essential for managing the condition and its symptoms. Do not hesitate to visit a doctor if you suspect that you are suffering from PCOD or PCOS symptoms or if your periods have been irregular.