In the past decade, hormonal issues and imbalance have become more prevalent, especially in Indian women. With every 1 in 5 women experiencing PCOS, it is crucial to understand their origin, their connection to our lifestyle and management options.
PCOS and PCOD are two conditions that are often used interchangeably. It is crucial to understand the difference between the two as both have different causes.
PCOD
Polycystic Ovarian Disorder is a hormonal condition caused by increased production of male hormones i.e androgens in the body. Due to this, immature eggs are released in the ovary, causing multiple cysts and other health issues.
PCOS
In comparison, polycystic ovarian syndrome is an endocrine condition caused by metabolic deficiency. This leads to smaller egg sacs accumulating in the ovaries and turning into cysts.
While the causes for the conditions vary, the symptoms can often overlap, making it difficult to differentiate between the two. In this piece, let’s understand the key points separating PCOD and PCOS.
COMMON SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
1. IRREGULAR MENSTRUATION
The excess testosterone production and cyst formation can cause skipped or missed periods.
2. HEAVY MENSTRUAL BLEEDING
Fluctuating oestrogen production can cause a lot of bleeding, along with clots during periods.
3. EXCESSIVE HAIR GROWTH
Higher testosterone levels can lead to the development of secondary sexual characteristics like facial and body hair.
4. ACNE
An imbalance in hormones can affect the skin through regular breakouts, acne and pimples.
5. WEIGHT GAIN
Insulin resistance caused by endocrine issues leads to fat tissue deposits around the organs, causing excess weight gain.
6. HAIR LOSS
Women with either of these conditions experience thinning or balding due to hormonal changes, especially on the scalp.
7. SKIN DARKENING
Dark patches, especially around the neck, groin, or underarms, start developing due to insulin resistance in the body.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PCOS AND PCOD
HOW PCOS AND PCOD IS DIAGNOSED
PCOS and PCOD can be diagnosed through physical findings, blood tests, and imaging. Based on symptoms such as irregular periods, unwanted male-pattern hair growth, acne, or scalp hair thinning, the gynaecologist will take your medical history, understand your lifestyle and confirm the diagnosis with a series of tests.
1. Pelvic Examination
A physical check of reproductive organs for masses, abnormalities, or growths.
2. Blood Tests
It includes tests like fasting lipid profile and glucose tolerance tests which evaluate cholesterol and blood sugar levels respectively.
3. Imaging Test (Ultrasound)
Checks the size of ovaries, uterine lining, and the presence of ovarian cysts.
LIFESTYLE CHANGES TO MANAGE PCOS AND PCOD
1. Follow a Low-Carb Diet
Opt for complex carbs like vegetables, fish, eggs, and seeds; avoid sugar, starchy foods, and processed carbs.
2. Exercise Regularly
Engage in moderate-intensity exercise for at least 20 minutes to enhance mobility and energy levels.
3. Reduce Stress
Manage mental health and stress levels through mindfulness, meditation and yoga.
4. Adding dietary supplements
Taking Myo-inositol-based supplements can balance insulin resistance and hormonal issues caused by the conditions to reduce symptoms.
CONCLUSION
PCOD and PCOS are hormonal conditions that require different approaches to manage. Early identification of symptoms and the right treatment plan can make a big difference. A lot of women struggle to understand the difference and often self-diagnose or self-medicate.
There’s no single solution that works for everyone, so it’s important to find a treatment plan that suits your needs. Options may include medications, lifestyle adjustments, or a combination of both. With timely care and the right support, women will be able to reverse the effects and regain their hormonal health.
