PCOS vs PCOD: Symptoms, Causes, Diet & Treatment for Women

Today, PCOS/PCOD is one of the leading causes of infertility and lifestyle-related hormonal
disorders in women. PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) are common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age (15–45
years). They involve hormonal imbalance, irregular ovulation, and metabolic disturbances, which can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, skin, weight, and mental health.

PCOS vs PCOD – Are They the Same?

PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease)
PCOD means the ovaries do not release eggs regularly because of hormonal imbalance, leading to irregular periods and small cysts in the ovaries.

Severity– mild to moderate
Cause-lifestyle and hormonal imbalance
Fertility impact– usually manageable

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
PCOS is a hormonal condition where imbalance of hormones affects ovaries, periods, weight, skin, and overall metabolism.

Severity-more severe
Cause– genetic + metabolic + hormonal
Fertility impact– may cause infertility

PCOS is more serious than PCOD, though the terms are often used interchangeably.

Common Symptoms of PCOS & PCOD

Menstrual Symptoms
• Irregular periods
• Missed periods (amenorrhea)
• Heavy or prolonged bleeding

Physical Symptoms
• Weight gain (especially abdominal)
• Excess facial/body hair (hirsutism)
• Acne and oily skin
• Hair thinning or hair fall (male-pattern baldness)

Metabolic & Emotional Symptoms
• Fatigue
• Mood swings
• Anxiety or depression
• Cravings and sugar addiction

Reproductive Symptoms
• Difficulty conceiving
• Delayed ovulation
• Recurrent miscarriages

Main Causes of PCOS & PCOD

1. Hormonal Imbalance
Increased male hormones (androgens) disturb ovulation
and cause irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth.
2. Insulin Resistance
The body does not use insulin properly, leading to high
insulin levels, which trigger more hormone imbalance and
ovarian problems.
3. Genetic Factors
PCOS/PCOD can run in families. If the mother or sister
has it, the risk is higher.
4. Unhealthy Lifestyle
Poor diet, lack of exercise, stress, and irregular sleep
worsen hormonal imbalance.
5. Weight Gain & Obesity
Extra body fat increases insulin resistance and hormone
disturbance.
6. Stress
Chronic stress affects hormone control centers in the
brain.

PCOD and PCOS happen when hormones and insulin are not balanced, causing the ovaries to work irregularly, insulin resistance, genetic tendency, and lifestyle factors.

Diagnosis

1. Menstrual history & physical examination
2. Blood tests (LH, FSH, insulin, glucose, thyroid)
3. Pelvic ultrasound

Long-Term Health Risks

If untreated, PCOS/PCOD may lead to:

1. Type 2 diabetes
2. Heart disease & hypertension
3. Infertility
4. Endometrial cancer
5. Depression & anxiety

When to See a Doctor

Consult a doctor if you experience:

1. Irregular periods for over 3 months
2. Excess hair growth or acne
3. Difficulty getting pregnant
4. Rapid weight gain
5. Emotional distress

Management & Treatment

No permanent cure, but effective management is possible

1. Lifestyle Management (Most Important)
2. Regular exercise (30–45 min/day)
3. Balanced, low-GI diet
4. Weight control
5. Stress management (yoga, meditation)
6. Proper sleep (7–8 hours)

Foods to Avoid in PCOS & PCOD

1. Sugary foods & drinks
2. Refined carbs (maida, white bread, rice)
3. Junk & fried foods
4. Trans fats & processed snacks
5. Excess dairy (may worsen acne in some women)

Myths vs Facts

Myth: PCOS causes permanent infertility
Fact: Many women conceive with treatment

Myth: Only overweight women get PCOS
Fact: Lean women can also have PCOS

Myth: Surgery is needed
Fact: Surgery is rarely required

Myth: PCOS can be cured
Fact: It can be managed, not cured

Hormonal Health Tips

1. Track menstrual cycles
2. Avoid crash dieting
3. Reduce sugar intake
4. Get regular health check-ups
5. Spread awareness and break taboos

Insight Research 

PCOS and PCOD represent a spectrum of hormonal and metabolic disorders marked by insulin resistance and ovarian dysfunction. Research shows that lifestyle and dietary changes play a crucial role in symptom control and long-term health.