Are PCOS and PCOD the same?

Many people get confused between PCOS and PCOD. It is not surprising since they may have heard both terms used interchangeably.

Well, PCOS and PCOD are not the same. PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, while PCOD is Polycystic Ovarian Disease. Both of these are related to ovaries, and symptoms can also be similar, but still, they are not the same.

Let us tell you about the difference between PCOS and PCOD:-

• In PCOS, the whole endocrine system is affected. PCOD occurs due to hormonal imbalance.
• PCOS can cause metabolic syndrome and is a little serious when compared to PCOD. PCOD is a lifestyle condition and can be managed through lifestyle and dietary changes.
• Women with PCOS are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, obesity, and even endometrial cancer. There are no such complications associated with PCOD.
• PCOD doesn't cause fertility issues as such. PCOS can cause infertility in women.

Both conditions can be challenging, but lifestyle modifications like dietary changes, balanced exercise, and adequate sleep for around 7-8 hours a day can help manage the hormone levels in the body and thus prevent PCOS and PCOD from happening.