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What are the Differences Between PCOD and PCOS?

What are the Differences Between PCOD and PCOS

You’ve probably heard of PCOD and PCOS and might use the terms interchangeably, but it’s important to recognize that they’re not the same and should be handled differently. PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) and PCOD (polycystic ovary disease) are two hormonal disorders that affect many women globally. Although their names sound similar, It is important to understand the differences between PCOD and PCOS for accurate diagnosis, proper treatment, and effective management. This article will explore the features, symptoms, and consequences of both conditions.

What is PCOD: Polycystic Ovary Disease?

PCOD, or polycystic ovary disease, is a hormonal disorder where multiple small cysts form on the ovaries. It’s also known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOD is mainly used to talk about how the ovaries look, while PCOS refers to a broader clinical syndrome that includes various symptoms and hormonal imbalances.

Common symptoms of PCOD include irregular menstrual cycles, ovarian cysts, and hormonal imbalances causing excess production of androgen (male hormone). This hormonal imbalance may lead to issues like acne, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), and weight gain. Women with PCOD might also face fertility challenges due to irregular or absent ovulation.

What is PCOS: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

PCOS is a more comprehensive term that covers not just the structural aspects (multiple cysts) seen in PCOD but also the associated symptoms and metabolic issues. To diagnose PCOS, a woman needs to experience at least two out of the following three criteria:

  • Irregular or absent menstrual cycles: Women with PCOS often have infrequent periods or long gaps between cycles.
  • Hyperandrogenism: This involves excess production of androgens, leading to symptoms like hirsutism, acne, and male-pattern hair loss.
  • Polycystic ovaries: Ultrasound imaging may show multiple small cysts on the ovaries, contributing to the PCOS diagnosis.

Additionally, PCOS is linked to metabolic problems like insulin resistance, making it challenging to regulate blood sugar levels and increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Women with PCOS may also have higher levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, raising their risk of cardiovascular disease.

Differences Between PCOD and PCOS

The main difference between PCOD and PCOS lies in their focus. PCOD looks at the structural aspect of having multiple cysts on the ovaries, while PCOS is considered a broader clinical syndrome with hormonal imbalances, menstrual irregularities, and metabolic disturbances.

Here’s a simplified table outlining the differences between PCOD and PCOS:

Aspect PCOD PCOS
Definition and Diagnosis Several tiny cysts are present on the ovaries, accompanied by irregular menstrual cycles. Broader syndrome with hormonal imbalances, irregular periods, and cysts
Hormonal Imbalances Diagnosed based on cysts and irregular periods Involves additional hormonal imbalances, such as elevated androgens (testosterone)
Menstrual Irregularities Often associated with infrequent or absent periods This may lead to irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding
Severity and Effects Generally considered milder Can have broader effects on health, including fertility issues, insulin resistance, weight gain, and metabolic disorders
Additional Symptoms May not include symptoms like acne, hirsutism, and hair loss May come with additional symptoms such as acne, excessive hair growth, and hair loss
Causes Not fully understood; likely involves genetic and environmental factors Causes are not fully understood; a combination of genetic and environmental factors, hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and inflammation
Treatment Approaches Personalized lifestyle adjustments and medication regimens are designed for the individual. Involves lifestyle modifications, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, weight management, and medication, tailored to the individual
Overlapping Conditions Not mutually exclusive; some may later develop full PCOS symptoms PCOD and PCOS can coexist in some individuals

This table provides a quick overview of the key differences between PCOD and PCOS.

Grasping these distinctions is essential for precise diagnosis and the application of suitable treatment. Healthcare professionals assess individual symptoms, conduct hormonal evaluations, and perform physical examinations to determine the best course of action for each person.

Conclusion

In conclusion, PCOD and PCOS are related to female hormonal disorders, but they have distinct differences in terms of their focus and clinical implications. PCOD primarily relates to the structural appearance of polycystic ovaries, while PCOS encompasses a broader syndrome involving hormonal imbalances, irregular periods, and metabolic issues. To ensure accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment, it’s crucial to seek medical advice. If you’re experiencing symptoms of PCOD or PCOS, consulting a doctor for an expert opinion is recommended. You can book an appointment at www.ayushmanhhs.in for further guidance.

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Ovulation Disorders that cause Infertility 

The WHO has described “Infertility” as a global public health issue ; the findings reveal that approximately 10% of women (globally) are affected by this disease. Infertility in women is determined if a woman is unable to get pregnant over the course of one year trying and for those over the age of 35 the duration is 6 months.The percentage of men afflicted with infertility is yet to be determined due to prevailing social ignorance but the WHO believes the percentage is much higher than that of women. Some of Delhi’s best IVF doctors are certain that both men and women contribute equally to all cases of infertility. This article will deal with ovulation disorders, so in case you are looking for treatment for infertility in Dwarka, or Delhi, this article can help. Our fertility centre in Dwarka has successfully treated numerous cases of infertility, and most cases were due to ovulation disorders.

The endocrine system plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle and the process of becoming pregnant. Some medications, conditions and lifestyle factors, such as being overweight or underweight, affect the hormone levels and can cause irregular hormone production or damage the ovaries, resulting in an ovulation disorder.

The two most common symptoms of disordered ovulation are irregular or absent periods and difficulty becoming pregnant. But most disorders present a unique set of symptoms.

Infertility is caused primarily due to complications arising from ovulation disorders.  Pregnancy cannot occur because the ovaries are unable to produce the  eggs required for the same.

Missing or irregular periods are the most common signs  of ovulation disorders . PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) occurs in women due to hormonal imbalances and is the chief cause of ovulation disorders today. POI (Primary Ovarian Insufficiency) is another reason and occurs before the age of 40 wherein the ovaries stop functioning normally ; this is not to be confused with menopause. Less common causes of  female infertility are diseases like endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease (both can cause blockage in the Fallopian tubes), physical issues with the uterus and uterine fibroids.

Some ovulation disorders are diagnosed via examination, medical history and menstrual history. But other disorders require laboratories for blood testing to conclusively diagnose. Based on the symptoms that a woman presents, doctors will test for different hormone levels. If a woman has PCOS symptoms, for example, the doctor will likely test her testosterone and insulin levels to make a determination.

Once diagnosed, most ovulation disorders can be treated with lifestyle changes or medication. A doctor may recommend nutritional adjustment, fertility medications  that supplement missing hormones, or stress reduction.

Women who have irregular or absent menstruation should see a fertility specialist if they are unable to become pregnant within 12 months of unprotected sex with regular frequency (six months if the woman is over 35 years of age).

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Does a High Risk Pregnancy mean you can’t have a child?

Pregnancy doctors in dwarka, delhi

The answer to the question above is “no”, and with some of Delhi’s best gynaecologists on board at Dwarka’s best hospital for childbirth, you can rest easy knowing you’ll have our support throughout your pregnancy, even if it is deemed “high risk”. Even though “high risk” might sound ominous, the term does not in any way mean that you’re destined to have problems with your pregnancy. In fact, the majority of women who have so-called high-risk pregnancies go on to have few or no problems and give birth to healthy babies; hundreds of women visit our gynaecological hospital in Dwarka asking the same kind of questions before going on to have absolutely healthy babies.

WHAT IS A HIGH PREGNANCY? 

Having a high-risk pregnancy simply means that due to a pre-existing health condition — or one you develop while you’re expecting —you may be at risk of developing pregnancy related complications. In order to manage this and reduce risk; you’ll need extra monitoring and perhaps extra treatment to make sure everything goes smoothly with your health and your baby’s.

RISK FACTORS

Pre-existing factors for high-risk pregnancies may include the following:

  • Heart disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Kidney problems
  • Sexually transmitted infections, including HIV
  • Diabetes
  • Cancer
  • Autoimmune diseases (such as lupus)
  • Blood disorders
  • Being overweight or underweight
  • Problematic past pregnancies
  • Having had fertility problems
  • Being under the age of 18

MANAGING HIGH RISK PREGNANCIES

High risk pregnancies require a greater number of prenatal visits with an obstetrician, in order to closely monitor the progression of the pregnancy. Women with high risk pregnancies are counselled to be especially attentive to their health, eat a nutritious diet, gain a proper amount of weight and avoid any risky substances or medications. Doctors will often prescribe vitamins, iron supplements or medicines to enhance the health of the mother and baby.

WE ARE HERE FOR YOU

If your pregnancy is considered high-risk or you have complications, you can rest easier knowing that the expert team at Ayushman is here to support you with advanced maternity care. You’ll have access to the latest medical and genetic tests, maternal-foetal medicine doctors who work with your own obstetrician, and specialised treatment units for women and newborns.

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