
KEY COMPARISON BETWEEN PCOD AND PCOS SYMPTOMS CAUSES DIFFERENCES TREATMENT
Key Comparison Between PCOD and PCOS – Symptoms, Causes, Differences & Treatment

Ever feel like your body is trying to send you secret messages, but the codes are all mixed up? But you are not alone, we often confuse, ignore, and fail to truly listen to the signals our bodies are sending. Let's discuss the most commonly used words like “Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD)”...
These signals, though subtle, are vital indicators of our overall health, one of the most significant challenges many women face with PCOD & PCOS.
It’s a condition that often goes unnoticed until it starts affecting various aspects of a woman’s life. From irregular periods to hormonal imbalances, rapid weight gain, skin issues, infertility, and massive hair growth. The most frustrating part is that it affects women of all ages, and its symptoms can sometimes be so diverse that they are easily overlooked or misdiagnosed. Yet, the reality is that this condition is more common than we realize, and its silent nature makes it even harder to address.
At Apollo Sage Hospital, 7 out of 11 women reaching out for consultations share common concerns like irregular periods, stubborn acne, and rapid weight gain, it seems like hormones are throwing a wild party and the invite list includes everyone except Balance and Calm!
Maybe it’s time we RSVP’d to self-care and showed those hormones Who’s the BOSS!
Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) vs. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
So let’s get this out of the way. PCOD and PCOS are conditions associated with the ovary. Yet, these two are very different conditions. PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) is a condition where ovaries form multiple small cysts and the menstrual cycle may get irregular. PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) on the other hand, is a hormonal disorder that (often) leads to ovarian cysts, but it causes imbalances in estrogen, progesterone, and insulin levels that can result in diabetes and heart disease over time.
Thus, even though both are due to cysts in your ovaries, while polycystic ovaries in themselves are only an abnormal finding, polycystic ovarian syndrome is a disease and much affects the balance of hormones in your body.
What are the different symptoms between PCOD and PCOS Symptoms?
Both conditions sometimes have overlapping symptoms, and it can be difficult to know which one you have. Here's a quick rundown:
Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) Symptoms:
- Irregular Cycles: You might have your cycles for longer than a period or not get them at all for a long time.
- Increase in weight: Studies show that around 40-80% of women with PCOD experience marked weight gain or difficulty maintaining a healthy weight, especially in the abdominal region.
- Increased Muscle Mass: This might also be accompanied by excess pigmentation or hair growth in typical male areas (the term for this is hirsutism, and you may have more hair on your face, chest, or back).
- Skin Problems: Change in hormones causes breakouts, skin tags, dry skin, or oily skin.
- Loss of Hair: Most women face significant hair fall on the scalp during Polycystic Ovarian Disease, again due to hormonal imbalances. In this case, an excess of androgens affects the quality and quantity of hair over time
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Symptoms
- Irregular Periods: As you might know, your periods are irregular, or not coming at all
- Infertility: eggs are not released from the ovaries, which makes it difficult for a woman to conceive because ovulation is a requisite for fertilization.
- Insulin Resistance: Approximately 50-70% of women who face high blood insulin levels or Sugar levels occur because of PCOS closely linked to metabolic issues include the body’s reduced ability to process insulin effectively.
- Hair Growth Severity: Hirsutism is often more severe due to PCOS, particularly on the face.
- Acne and Male Pattern Baldness: this pattern of baldness is generally more potent. This overproduction of androgens can cause breakout at the same time slow hair fall from the top of the head.
What are the Root Causes of Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) and PCOS Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
We will further understand that PCOD/PCOS causes are closely embedded with lifestyle, genetics, and environmental factors. Now, let’s take a closer look at the biggest offenders that lead to these issues:
1. Modern Lifestyle Chaos
Most of us go through life at a breakneck pace and seldom really have time on our hands to extend care to ourselves. Long working hours and irregular sleep patterns have become the new normal, which threatens your hormonal balance due to the presence of stress. Eventually, this lifestyle precipitates conditions such as insulin resistance and anovulation. Mindfulness or mindful living, as directed by Apollo Sage Hospital, is the solution to these problems.
2. Junk Food Overload
A diet high in processed foods, sweets, and fried snacks disrupts insulin levels. These foods stimulate androgen production, which causes acne, weight gain, and cyst formation. Replacing unhealthy meals with balanced nutrition is very helpful in managing symptoms of PCOD/PCOS.
3. Lack of Physical Activity
Insulin resistance, weight gain, and hormonal imbalance are all major consequences of a sedentary lifestyle. Regular exercise — whether through yoga, walking, cardio, or anything else that uses your muscles to work against the forces of gravity — not only helps with weight loss but also improves your insulin sensitivity, leading to lessened symptoms.
4. Mental Health Matters
Stress and anxiety can be silent disruptors affecting the endocrine system and hormonal balance. High stress leads to high levels of cortisol eventually correcting to worsen the symptoms of PCOD/PCOS indirectly. Apollo Sage Hospital promotes mental well-being with practices like meditation and counseling to relieve stress.
5. Genetics and Family History
There is a strong genetic component in the case of PCOD/PCOS. If it runs in your mother or your sister, you’re at higher risk too. Genetics cannot be changed, but you can do something to lessen the impact of genetics through lifestyle changes.
All these contribute to a hormonal storm but the silver lining is that adopting a healthy and active lifestyle along with expert guidance can counter and even reverse these symptoms, as supported by specialists at Apollo Sage Hospital.
Diagnosis and Tests: this is How PCOD/ PCOS is Diagnosed.
When it comes to diagnosing PCOS, it is like piecing together a mystery and your healthcare provider is the detective (and expert here)! They’ll first make the links between your symptoms and medical history. To solve the case, they might run some blood tests or perform an ultrasound to get a better look. Here’s how they fit it all together:
- Let’s Talk: Review your symptoms, your medical history, and any family history or similar problems, and discuss with Dr. Anupa Walia Lokwani on 07554308111, the Best Gynecologist in Apollo SAGE Hospital Bhopal
- Check-in on Your Vitals: Your weight and blood pressure provide key clues to the bigger picture.
- Examination: A thorough examination looking for features such as excess facial hair, thinning of hair, acne, skin hyperpigmentation, or skin tags.
- Pelvic Exam: To exclude other causes of abnormal bleeding or discomfort.
- Hormone & Glucose Level Check: A comprehensive blood test that assesses how your body functions.
- Pelvic Ultrasound: A deeper dive that looks at your ovaries, and uterine lining and rules out anything else that could be causing irregular symptoms.
PCOD/ PCOS Treatment Options:
Polycystic ovary disease (PCOD) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) a complex conditions that have multiple treatment options to help manage symptoms and enhance the quality of life. Let’s dive into a few of the standout treatments to help restore women with PCOS to their best selves.
Hormonal Therapy:
One of the most conventional treatment options for PCOS is hormonal therapy, which is generally used as birth control pills. These little magic pills can help regulate your menstrual cycle, decrease the secretion of male hormones (androgens), and improve symptoms such as acne and excessive hair growth (hirsutism). Women who do not wish to be pregnant can also find substantial relief from painful menstrual cramps and other discomfort through this treatment. It’s like you are resetting your entire hormonal disorder in your body!
Ovulation Induction:
For women who have difficulty with fertility, ovulation induction can make a world of difference. This includes drugs such as Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid) or Letrozole, which encourage the ovaries to produce mature eggs, raising the chance of conception. Some women might also receive gonadotropins (injectable hormones) to stimulate egg production. Regular ovulation may be of particular use for anyone suffering irregular ovulation or no ovulation at all (a frequent problem amongst females with PCOS).
Insulin Sensitizers:
Insulin Resistance A significant hurdle for many women with PCOS is insulin resistance, where the body doesn’t quite respond to insulin as well as it should, causing increased blood sugar levels. The solution? Metformin is an insulin-sensitizing drug. Metformin controls blood sugar by improving the body’s handling of insulin, but it also helps limit the overproduction of androgen hormones that drive symptoms like hirsutism and acne. And it can help keep weight in check — something that’s often associated with PCOS. Since it tackles the very root cause of insulin resistance, metformin is one of the most effective medications to prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes in patients suffering from PCOS.
Medical Approach:
Occasionally surgical interventions like ovarian drilling may be an option in extreme cases where all other treatments fail to provide relief. This laparoscopic and minimally invasive technique creates small holes in the ovaries with a laser or a fine needle to lower androgen levels in the body and encourages ovulation. It is usually recommended for women who have severe symptoms of PCOS and have not had relief from other medications or lifestyle changes.
When it comes to diet, it’s not just about picking what tastes good, but what fuels your body right! A tailored diet plan can make a world of difference to your health, and while most of us turn to dietitians for this, guess what? We have a specialist who does a bit more than that. Introducing Dr. Anupa Walia Lokwani – a master in high-risk pregnancies, gynecology, and critical care obstetrics. And yes, she’s also your go-to expert for those "diet dilemmas," because why not have a doctor who can do it all? After all, who says you can’t enjoy your meal and your health at the same time?
Diet Tips for PCOD & PCOS Patients by Dr. Anupa Walia Lokwani
(Best Gynecologist in Bhopal at Apollo Sage Hospital)
Dr. Anupa Walia Lokwani, the Best Gynecologist in Bhopal, has worked for Women's Health Awareness and Health Care For More Than 24 Years. Expertise in High-Risk Pregnancy, Gynaecology, and critical care obstetrics, she provides care with compassion.
Dr Anupa graduated with MBBS from Gandhi Medical College and completed her MD (OBG) from PGIMER Chandigarh. She completed her training with a Diploma in Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Gynecological Surgery at KIEL University, Germany.
Dr. Anupa Walia Lokwani was awarded the Six Sigma Healthcare Excellence Award for "Best Gynecologist of the Year" in 2019, for her excellence in the field. She actively contributes to prestigious medical bodies including the ISAR, FOGSI, and IAGE, however, and is still serving at Apollo SAGE Hospital Bhopal offering advanced care.
Among the women’s health issues she addresses, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Polycystic Ovary Disorder (PCOD) top the list of most common hormonal imbalances seen in women worldwide. Dr. Anupa stresses that, while medical treatment is essential, diet and lifestyle management are just as important. She has also shared some important diet tips for controlling PCOD and PCOS effectively.
PCOD & PCOS Diet Plan
Diet for PCOD/PCOS: Foods to include in Diet
Lean Protein:
Opt for blood sugar balancing and satiating sources like eggs, chicken, fish, omega-3-enriched mackerel, salmon, tofu, and lentils. You might also eat more plant proteins such as chickpeas, kidney beans, and edamame.
Complex Carbohydrates:
Still, whole grains, such as quinoa, barley, and millet, are better. This allows energy to be released slowly, which acts as an anti-insulin resistance. Sweet potatoes and pumpkin, for example, are great substitutes for processed carbohydrates.
Healthy Fats:
To fight inflammation, choose Omega-3-rich sources like flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds, those cooking oils could be extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, and coconut oil
Fruits & Vegetables
Apples, pears, oranges, guava, and cherries help curb sugar cravings without stimulating insulin. Load your plate with all the greens (leafy greens), bell peppers, zucchini, cauliflower, and cucumbers because they promote digestive cleaning and detoxification.”
Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and kale aid in estrogen regulation
Dairy Alternatives:
Dairy also worsens hormonal imbalance as it includes milk. Replace it with almond milk, coconut yogurt, or oat milk.
Nuts & Seeds
Sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, and almonds are potent sources of magnesium and zinc, which are critical when promoting hormone balance.
And, interestingly, pumpkin seeds and flaxseeds, which are high in lignans, help to regulate estrogen levels.
Spices & Herbs:
These brain boosters help reduce inflammation and stabilize blood sugar levels: Add cinnamon, turmeric, and fenugreek to your diet.
Herbal teas (spearmint tea, for example) are also known to lower androgens and relieve symptoms.
Probiotics:
Combine with fermented foods such as yogurt (in moderation), kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut for healthy gut function, which is very linked to hormone regulation.
Pro Tip - Drink sufficient water minimum of 8-10 glasses of water every day, You can also have detox water with lemon, mint, or cucumber for additional benefits.
PCOD/PCOS Diet: Foods To Avoid In Diet
Processed and Sugary Foods:
Resist the urge for sweets, packaged snacks, baked goods, and sweet drinks that give you blood sugar spikes. Do not use artificial sweeteners, rather, use natural sweeteners like stevia or jaggery.
Refined Carbs:
Avoid white bread as well as white rice and pasta. Swap them out for whole-grain or gluten-free varieties.
Trans Fats:
Steer clear of margarine, fried foods, and processed junk that may cause inflamed levels and worsen symptoms of PCOS.
Coffee and Alcohol:
Lower caffeine from tea and coffee, as they increase cortisol. Use decaf or herbal teas instead.
Pro tip: Avoid overconsumption of alcohol, which will impair the liver's ability to do its job — something that's crucial for maintaining hormonal balance.
Tips for PCOD/ PCOS
Diet in PCOD/ PCOS has a lion’s share but a couple of other factors also play a vital role —
Daily Exercise & Be Active
These include regular exercise (for example, yoga or brisk walking) that can help control weight and improve insulin sensitivity. In addition, practicing stress management techniques such as meditation or deep breathing may also help to balance hormones. Also, it is important to get enough sleep and maintain a healthy sleep schedule which helps to alleviate the symptoms of PCOD/PCOS.
Start Your Day Right
Beginning your day with protein and healthy fat. To regulate blood sugar levels and keep you full for longer, go for scrambled eggs with avocado, Greek yogurt with nuts and seeds, or a smoothie made with almond milk and a scoop of protein powder.
Frequent Small Meals
Rather than three respectively large meals, divide your meals into lesser portions every 3-4 hours. This helps prevent spikes in insulin levels and enables you to maintain energy during the day. Snacks are a small handful of almonds, a boiled egg, or a piece of fruit with nut butter.
Don’t Skip Meals
Skipping meals not only translates to additional pressure on your metabolism but can also contribute to hormonal imbalances. For overall health, try to eat regularly and load your plate with whole grains, lean proteins, and vegetables. Follow Prescribed Medication
In addition to lifestyle changes, you should also take any medications your doctor suggests for PCOD and PCOS treatment. These can be hormonal medications, insulin-sensitizing medications, or medications that help with symptoms. As always, follow your doctor’s orders to the letter, and do not stop or change medications without talking to your physician.
Consult with an Expert
However, for personalized guidance, accurate diagnosis, and effective treatment plans, consulting with a trained gynecologist is essential. Consult any doctor at Apollo SAGE Hospital, Bhopal.
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Disclaimer: Never take any medication without consulting a doctor first. Improper medicine use can also cause serious problems. Always take what your doctor says for safe and effective treatment.