PCOD vs PCOS: Understanding the Key Differences

Often, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Polycystic Ovarian Disease are used inter-exchangeably, though they bear a slight difference. They are two different conditions that exhibit various symptoms and offer relevant treatment options. For the purposes of the right diagnosis, treatment, and medication, the differences between PCOD and PCOS are very crucial for understanding. The present writing will bring out the differences pertaining to symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

What is PCOD vs PCOS?

PCOD full form(Polycystic Ovarian Disease) and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) both tackle problems regarding the ovaries, but they are quite varied in terms of causative factors, symptoms, and treatment:

PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease): involves multiple small cysts within the ovaries. These clogs are formed because the ovaries do not release eggs for ovulation. Generally, PCOD is a milder condition than PCOS.
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome): PCOS is a more complicated disorder that exerts its effects not only on the ovaries but also on the hormone levels and metabolism. In addition to the aforementioned symptoms, the syndrome is characterized by irregular periods, elevated male hormones, and polycystic ovaries—signifying deteriorated overall health more than that induced by PCOD.

Symptoms of PCOD vs PCOS

Symptoms of PCOD are as follow:

Irregular periods: The cycle is either prolonged or the periods are not occurring on schedule.
Mild Acne or Oily Skin: These are also present in some women but are usually less pronounced than in PCOS.
Hair Growth: Increased hair growth in the face or body, though it is generally less compared to the case of PCOS.
Weight Gain can occur, but it is generally less pronounced than in PCOS.
Fertility Issues: Such issues can occur but are usually much milder compared to PCOS.

PCOS Symptoms:

Irregular or Absent Periods: For the most part, they are more severe and more frequently seen to be absent and irregular compared to the case of PCOD.
Severe Acne and Oily Skin: High androgen levels cause this condition.
Hirsutism: leads to excessive hair growth on the face and body compared to PCOS.
Obesity: Abnormal or undue gain or an inability to lose weight; most patients suffer from insulin resistance.
Infertility: a leading cause of infertility as ovulation is infrequent and at times even absent

Causes of PCOD vs PCOS

Causes of PCOD:

Hormonal Imbalance: Imbalances of the hormones estrogen and progesterone can cause cyst formation in the ovaries.
Genetics: A genetic background of ovarian disorders can be a predisposing factor of PCOD.

Causes of PCOS

Hormonal Dysbalance: Elevated amounts of androgens and insulin resistance are two major incidences of PCOS, which disrupt the ovarian regular activities.
Genetics: Inheritances of PCOS are common for generations together, indicating that it is a genetic disorder.
Insulin Resistance: Most women of PCOS develop insulin resistance with high insulin levels that causes hormonal imbalance.
Inflammation: Some women with PCOS might develop chronic low-grade inflammation that can be a reason for the regulation of hormones and ovarian function.

PCOD vs PCOS Treatment

The treatment for PCOD is:

Healthy Lifestyle Changes: A well-balanced diet and regular exercise can help control the symptoms and maintain good health.
Medication: Hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills also help improve menstrual cycles by reducing acne and hair growth.
Insulin Sensitizers: Sometimes, doctors use insulin sensitizers to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels in the body.

PCOS Treatment:

Adjustment of lifestyle: Dieting and physical exercise are very essential in the management of PCOS because it reduces the symptoms of PCOS and also enhances insulin sensitivity.

Medications:

Contraceptives: These may be useful to improve the menstrual cycle, minimize acne, and reduce hirsutism.
Anti-Androgens: Drugs are consumed to lower the androgen levels and alleviate the symptoms caused due to them like hirsutism and acne.
Insulin Sensitizers: Metformin is generally used to improve insulin sensitivity and regularize menstrual cycles.
Fertility Treatment: In case women with PCOS need to get pregnant, then ovulation induction through medication or other reproductive technologies is used.

Some Differential between PCOD vs PCOS:

Scope: PCOD generally involves ovarian cysts and postponements, while PCOS is a much more complex syndrome that includes hormonal imbalance, insulin resistance, and a much wider variety of symptoms.
Severity: PCOS generally presents with more aggravated symptoms and has a greater impact on fertility compared to PCOD.
Treatment Approach: Although both treatments can be applied to PCOS, it often requires a more holistic approach to be treated in targeting its multitasking nature with metabolic and fertility concerns.

Takeaways

Though vice versa, PCOD vs PCOS differ considerably from one another in the majority of other major aspects. Whilst PCOD is characterized by ovarian cysts and irregular periods, PCOD is generally thought to be less severe. PCOS is a more complex syndrome with a broad array of useful health implications. Suspect either of them and see your doctor for a thorough, full evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Dr. Sandesh Kade is a highly regarded Gynaecologist and Laparoscopic Surgeon in Abu Dhabi. With over 22 years of experience both in the UAE and internationally, he is recognized as a pioneer in his field. He specializes in minimally invasive laparoscopic surgeries, endometriosis treatment, and pelvic floor repairs.

Dr. Sandesh’s partnership with the internationally acclaimed Franco-European Multidisciplinary Institute of Endometriosis Academy (IFEM Endo) has further enhanced his reputation, contributing to the founding of a specialized clinic in the country.