PCOD & PCOS: Causes, Difference, Symptoms & Treatments

Disclaimer: The views or medical advice shared in this blog belong to the author. Kindly consult your doctor before following any advice. 

Good reproductive health is a condition of total physical and mental well-being in all aspects (of the reproductive system). It means that people may have a pleasant and safe sexual life and the ability to reproduce if they want to. It is essential to stay fit, protect oneself from infections and injuries, and avoid problems, such as some long-term health disorders.

When it comes to a woman's reproductive health, we know that although she is strong, her reproductive system is a delicate and sophisticated process in her body. Accurate knowledge is imperative, so it is easy to care for her health. Women's health issues have been a regular topic of discussion since the beginning. This blog will discuss a common issue for patients visiting the hospital for a consultation, viz., PCOD.

What is PCOD?

PCOD is a hormonal disease that causes larger ovaries with tiny cysts on the periphery. The etiology of polycystic ovary syndrome is unknown, but it may be caused by a mix of hereditary and environmental factors.

All these symptoms are menstrual irregularities, excessive hair growth, acne, and obesity.

In PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease), the ovaries release immature eggs, resulting in hormonal imbalances and enlarged ovaries, among other symptoms.

PCOD is not considered an illness because it is manageable with the appropriate diet and exercise.

What is PCOS?

PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) In PCOS, endocrine disorders cause the ovaries to create excess androgens, making eggs prone to cyst formation.

PCOS is a metabolic condition whose actual cause is uncertain. There is evidence that genetics is involved. Other variables contributing to PCOS include increased amounts of male hormones known as androgens: High androgen levels inhibit the ovaries' ability to release eggs (ovulation), resulting in irregular menstrual periods.

Difference between the two:

Many get confused between PCOD and PCOS and consider them the same. However, differences should be made clear before we move further. In PCOD, the ovaries begin to release immature eggs, resulting in hormonal imbalances and enlarged ovaries, among other symptoms; in PCOS, endocrine disorders cause the ovaries to create excess androgens, making eggs prone to cyst formation. Difference between PCOD and PCOS: UNICEF PCOS is often seen as a more severe disorder. PCOD is frequently manageable by educated lifestyle modifications and may not require any additional medical treatment at all.

Common Signs and Symptoms of PCOD/ PCOS

You have irregular or infrequent periods, which implies that your ovaries do not produce eggs regularly (ovulate). Blood tests reveal that you have high levels of "male hormones" like testosterone. PCOS can be difficult to diagnose since some of its symptoms could be caused by various factors. Heavy monthly bleeding, for example, might be caused by multiple illnesses, including PCOS and uterine fibroids, polyps, bleeding disorders, certain drugs, or pelvic inflammatory disease.

Take a note if you experience the following symptoms:

• Menstrual irregularity
• Menstruation is skipped or absent. 
• Heavy menstrual flow
• Excessive hair growth (face, back, belly, and chest)
• Acne (face, chest, and upper back)
• Gaining weight

These symptoms alone do not confirm you have PCOD. No single test can determine whether you have PCOD. Your doctor will discuss the symptoms and perform a physical exam and blood tests to determine if you have PCOD. 

Complications of PCOD/ PCOS

Females with PCOD or PCOS should monitor their health on a regular basis to avoid future problems. If left untreated, PCOD can progress to type 2 diabetes, obesity, and other mental health issues related to hormonal imbalance, whereas PCOS can lead to serious consequences such as hypertension, hyperglycemia, endometrial cancer, and pregnancy complications (premature delivery / preeclampsia / miscarriage).

Diagnosis: Let's look at how to diagnose PCOD:

Pelvic examination

The pelvic check-up is the same as a routine check-up with a gynecologist. The doctor examines and feels several parts of your anatomy for abnormalities, including the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and rectum.

BP, BMI, and waist size are also measured. They may also examine your skin to look for excessive hair growth, acne, and discolored skin. 

Pelvic Ultrasound

The ovaries are imaged with pelvic ultrasound (sonogram). You recline for the ultrasound, and the doctor briefly inserts an ultrasound probe into your vagina to examine your ovaries for cysts and the thickness of your uterine lining. If your periods aren't coming on schedule, your lining may be thicker than usual.

Blood tests

Blood samples are derived for the following hormones:

• FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) influences your capacity to conceive. If you have PCOS, your level may be lower than usual or even expected.
• Ovulation is stimulated by luteinizing hormone (LH). It may be higher than usual. If you have PCOS, the level will be increased.
• Testosterone is a sex hormone that is elevated in PCOS women.
• Estrogens are a class of hormones that enable women to have menstrual cycles. 
• The sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) in your blood may be lower than usual.
• Androstenedione, a sex hormone, may be elevated above normal.
• Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG): This hormone test can determine whether or not you are pregnant.
• Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) testing can determine how well your ovaries function and predict how close you are to menopause. With PCOS, the levels would be more significant.

Your doctor may prescribe additional testing to rule out other disorders that cause symptoms similar to PCOS, such as thyroid issues, malignancies, and hyperplasia (organ enlargement caused by an excess of cells).

Following your diagnosis, your blood glucose and cholesterol levels need to be tested if you have PCOS.

Doctors frequently perform these tests to assess your general health and risk of developing additional conditions.

Treatment of PCOD 

Currently, there is no permanent treatment for PCOD; however, most women may live quite normal and busy lives. The symptoms vary from one person to another. Observing your patterns and discomforts and working with medical practitioners can help reduce the severity of this condition. The following are a few natural therapies or methods for managing PCOD.

• Avoid eating manufactured foods.
• Have a well-balanced carbohydrate and protein diet 
• Consume iron-rich foods such as spinach, eggs, broccoli, etc.
• Consume magnesium-rich foods such as almonds, cashews, bananas, etc.
• Reduce caffeine consumption.
• Workout daily
• Sleep for 7-8 hours

FAQ

How to cure PCOD problems permanently?

PCOD is not a dangerous condition, however there is no total treatment. Maintaining a healthy weight, maintaining a varied carbohydrate diet, exercising regularly, and being active will aid in the management of PCOD and its underlying symptoms. It is also essential for females to consult with a gynecologist and a primary care doctor on a regular basis in order to have a healthy life in the future.

Can women get pregnant when she has pcod?

Yes, women with PCOD can become pregnant and carry it to term; however, careful preparation and follow-up with a gynecologist are required to avoid future difficulties.

Can you have weight gain in pcod and pcos?

Yes, women with pcod or pcos can gain weight owing to metabolism, hormonal imbalance, and an increase in androgen male hormone levels. Women's weight growth patterns will be similar to men's, with belly fat accounting for a greater percentage of total body fat.

When to visit the doctor when you suspect pcod?

Consult your doctor or a best gynecologist if your period has skipped or if you have additional PCOS symptoms such as facial or body hair growth.