The terms polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are often used interchangeably. Have you ever wondered if the two terms mean the same and it is correct to use them interchangeably or are they two different medical conditions? 

At the outset both PCOD and PCOS are medical conditions caused by hormonal disturbance and are primarily related to ovaries. However, these conditions have different symptoms. Read this health article to understand what PCOD and PCOS are, and how they are different.

PCOD vs PCOS: The basics

PCOD is a general condition of the ovaries and PCOS is a metabolic and endocrine condition caused due to hormonal imbalance.

  • PCOD is a condition where the ovaries produce partially mature or immature eggs in excess. These immature eggs may result in cyst development in the ovaries and may cause increased release of androgens (male hormones). 
  • PCOS is an endocrine disorder occurring in women of child bearing age. It is caused due to hormonal imbalance, particularly increased levels of androgens. Furthermore, PCOS is a metabolic disease and has associations with other chronic diseases including cardiac problems and diabetes.

PCOD vs PCOS: Symptoms

Although both PCOD and PCOS are conditions characterized by the presence of multiple cysts on the ovaries, they have different symptoms.

  • PCOD - Painful periods, abdominal weight gain, and male pattern hair loss.
  • PCOS - Irregular periods, amenorrhea, acne, weight gain, and hirsutism (excessive male pattern hair growth on the face, chest, back, and abdomen.

PCOD vs PCOS: Occurrence

  • PCOD is more common than PCOS. About one-third of the female population worldwide are affected with PCOD.
  • Studies say, 4%–20% of women of reproductive age worldwide are affected by PCOS.

PCOD vs PCOS: Ovulation

  • Women with PCOD can ovulate. 
  • Women with PCOS do not ovulate regularly, as the ovulation process and menstrual cycle are disturbed due to the severe hormonal imbalances.

PCOD vs PCOS: Effect on Pregnancy

  • PCOD generally does not cause infertility in women. Women with PCOD often do not experience serious fertility problems, they can overcome their challenges by making healthy lifestyle changes.
  • Women with PCOS may experience fertility problems and may face difficulties in conceiving. Additionally women with PCOS are at higher risk of miscarriages. 

However, it should be noted that all women with PCOS or PCOD can conceive with medical help and guidance. 

PCOD vs PCOS: Severity

  • PCOD is less severe and can be managed by lifestyle changes and dietary modification. Weight loss and being physically active are the key to manage PCOD.
  • PCOS is a severe health condition that affects the entire endocrine system. PCOS if left untreated may lead to metabolic disorders, cognitive dysfunction, and increases the risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart diseases.

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