Polycystic Ovarian Disease(PCOD) and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) have become common terms in the last decade. Both conditions affect female ovaries, reproductive health, and certain hormones. However, these situations can be managed by ruling out the causes and seriousness and starting effective medications.
So, consulting a doctor for a thorough examination is highly advisable. You can contact the best gynaecologist hospital in Mohali, Dr Sodhi’s Health Care which has an experienced team of doctors. So, let’s uncover symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatments of PCOS/PCOD so you can identify it.
Are PCOD and PCOS the Same?
Before addressing all the issues related to PCOS and PCOD, you must understand the difference between PCOS and PCOD. Generally, everyone needs to understand and believe these two terms are the same without realising some minor difference between them. So, let’s learn in-depth about them.
What is PCOD?
Do you know about one-third of all menstruating women around the globe have PCOD? PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) is a condition in which ovaries release immature or partially-mature eggs, which create cysts.
Generally, both ovaries produce an egg alternately every month, but when this cycle is disrupted, PCOD occurs. This irregular release of egg leads to swelling of ovaries and increases male androgen, which affects reproductive health.
What is PCOS?
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is much more serious and rare than PCOD, and every 4%-20% of women of reproductive age worldwide have PCOS. It results from the hormonal imbalance that leads to the excess production of male hormones.
Therefore, it hinders the development and release of eggs from ovaries and creates cysts. It also leads to swelling of ovaries and other problems.
Difference Between PCOD/PCOS
Although they seem very similar, there is a huge difference that further identifies the problems’ causes. In PCOD, for some reason, the ovaries release immature eggs, leading to hormonal imbalance.
On the other hand, PCOS is an endocrine issue(hormonal imbalance) that further leads to ovaries producing extra male hormones. PCOS may also welcome metabolic syndrome, which can also lead to heart disease, strokes, diabetes and sleep apnea.
Symptoms of PCOS/PCOD
One thing common in both conditions is that it leads to the release of immature eggs, excess male hormones, swelling of ovaries and related issues. So, some of the common symptoms of both conditions are:
- Irregular menstruation (Oligomenorrhea)
- Absence of menstruation (Amenorrhea)
- Very heavy menstrual bleeding (Menorrhagia)
- An increase in me hormones may show gradual hair growth in the face, body, chest, back
- Facial acne
- Sudden weight gain
- Hair loss
- Infertility issues
- Skin darkening in areas like the neck, groin, and under the breast.
Diagnostic Methods of PCOS/PCOD
Females witnessing the above-listed symptoms must visit the best gynaecologist near them. There can be many reasons for the above symptoms, and PCOD/PCOS may or may not be among them. Diagnostic methods like a blood test for hormones, triglycerides, total cholesterol levels and glucose tolerance are performed.
Moreover, ultrasounds are carried on to check cysts in the ovaries and the uterus lining. Additional tests like the PCOD profile test may be suggested based on the report’s conclusions. The results will narrow down the course of treatment. So, visiting a doctor is advised to control the issue and prevent future complications.
Causes of PCOD/PCOS
Does everyone wonder what the main reason for PCOD is? Well, there is not a single reason and many contributing factors. Some of the common accuses of PCOD/PCOS are:
Heredity
PCOS/PCOS are related to some genetic correlations. So, if your immediate family has a history of the condition, the chances are that you can have it. But, timely advice from doctors and lifestyle change can help to control it.
Insulin Resistance
Excess insulin production produces high levels of androgens. Therefore, the increase in male hormones leads to irregularities in the function of the ovaries and creates cysts. So, checking and controlling as early as possible is advisable.
Lifestyle
Many females start to notice the symptoms of PCOD/PCOS when they gain weight. Not having a healthy weight triggers insulin and androgens. So, having an active lifestyle while maintaining weight is advisable.
Best Methods to Control PCOS/PCOD
PCOS can be controlled by diet and lifestyle modifications after diagnosing it with the right medical help. Some of the best methods to keep it in check are:
Staying Active
Staying active and daily workout is quite beneficial. It will keep your blood sugar in check and is great for hormonal health. You can include light exercises, yoga, weight training, cardiovascular exercise and high-interval training with a weekly schedule.
Maintaining Healthy Weight
Another important way of controlling PCOS/PCOS is losing a few kilos. It will help you avoid lifestyle diseases and manage the condition. So, adding a nutritious diet with some exercise is recommended.
Check on Diet
A diet full of carbs, glutens, and sugars may worsen the case of PCOD/ PCOS. So, avoid sugary, starchy, and processed food. Additionally, junk food has high preservatives and carbs, which are not good for PCOS/PCOD. A healthy diet will help to maintain insulin levels and help to handle the condition. A rich fibrous diet, good fats and anti-inflammatory food must be in your diet plan.
Can a Woman Get Pregnant with PCOD?
Yes, having PCOD/PCOS doesn’t mean you can’t get pregnant. Often women wonder, is PCOD a serious problem? If treated at the right time, it can be managed.
You may face some difficulty conceiving, but after narrowing down the severity, you can work on it. You can control the condition with a professional line of treatment and lifestyle changes. It’s a treatable issue; you must visit the best doctor to start the treatment. Self-diagnosing and working on it will be unfruitful. So, a proper diagnosis, examination of medical history, and expert advice are highly recommended.
So, to know more about PCOS/PCOS and gain valuable advice, contact the best gynaecologist doctor in Mohali; Dr Sodhi’s Health Care is here for you with an expert team, state-of-the-art techniques and experience.
