PCOD and PCOS - Symptoms, Causes, Differences & Treatment

Are you suffering from PCOD problem? You’re not alone. It is estimated that nearly 20% of all Indian women, that is, about 1 out of 5 women in the country, suffer from PCOD.

What is PCOD?

Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is a medical condition in which a woman's ovaries generate immature or partially mature eggs in large numbers during reproductive age. These eggs develop into cysts in the ovaries over time. Due to the cysts, ovaries become large & secrete large amounts of male hormones (androgen) which causes infertility problems, irregular periods, unwanted weight gain, and other health issues.

While relatively common, most women are not aware of the signs and symptoms of PCOD, the implications of the condition, and available treatment options. So let us take a closer look.

What Problem PCOD May Cause?

The symptoms associated with PCOD often leave a lasting impact on women’s physical and mental well-being. It is estimated that about 34% of the women suffering from PCOD problem also suffer from depression, and nearly 45% suffer from anxiety. This makes it essential to diagnose and manage the symptoms early to prevent PCOD problems in future.

Many of the women diagnosed with PCOD problem also experience poor quality of life-related to-

• Mood swings
• Negative social relationships
• Low self-confidence
• Negative self-image
• Disruption of eating and sleep patterns
• Low motivation

Difference Between PCOD and PCOS

The names PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and PCOD full form Polycystic Ovarian Disease are often used interchangeably.

Let us look at how we can differentiate between PCOD vs PCOS.

If you experience any of the symptoms associated with PCOD, it is important to consult an expert gynaecologist for a proper diagnosis and PCOD problem treatment. In addition, your gynaecologist may refer you to an endocrinologist or a cardiologist to help manage other health conditions that you develop due to PCOS.

PCOD/PCOS Problem Symptoms

PCOD primarily affects the ovaries. The ovaries are a part of the female reproductive system. All women have two ovaries, and these release egg cells or ova. The ovaries are responsible for the production of oestrogen and progesterone. They also release the male hormone called androgen. PCOD can disrupt this process and lead to an abnormal release of male hormones.

Here are some common signs and symptoms of PCOD/PCOS problems-

• Irregular or unpredictable menstrual periods
• Heavy bleeding during periods
• Excess body hair
• Acne
• Hair loss or male pattern baldness
• Difficulty in getting pregnant
• Obesity
• Darkening of skin or pigmentation around the neck
• Sleep disorders
• Depression

PCOD/PCOS Causes

The exact cause of PCOD problem remains unclear. Doctors believe that PCOD can have both genetic and environmental causes. PCOD is often associated with –

• An unhealthy diet
• A sedentary lifestyle
• Pollution
• Hormone altering medication
• Several OTC (over the counter) medications and supplements

In many cases, PCOD problem runs in families and is also considered hereditary. Researchers point to several physiological causes that may increase your risks of developing PCOD/PCOS – 

• Excess Insulin Production - Insulin is a natural hormone produced by the pancreas. It helps regulate the metabolic functions of the body and regulate blood sugar levels. Doctors believe that a high insulin level is one of the key drivers of PCOS. Excess insulin also prompts the body to increase the production of androgen (male hormone), which inhibits ovulation.
• Inflammation – Several physiological reasons may cause low-grade inflammation in the body. Mild forms of autoimmune diseases can also cause inflammation in the body’s tissues. This, in turn, again increases the androgen levels in the body. 
• High Androgen Levels – The male hormone is associated with increased facial and body hair, acne outbreaks and skin issues, and a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. 

How is PCOD Problem diagnosed?

Diagnosis is crucial in finding a solution to PCOD problems. Your gynecologist will start with a physical exam and take a history of your symptoms. The doctor may then recommend tests such as -

• Blood tests (to check for the hormonal levels, blood sugar, insulin, and cholesterol)
• Pelvic ultrasound (to look for cysts in the ovaries and measure the lining of the uterus)

PCOD Problem Treatment Options

It is important to remember that solutions to the Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) problem involve both medication and lifestyle changes. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for the condition, but managing the symptoms can improve the quality of life.

• Diet modification can go a long way in managing symptoms and offering PCOD problem solutions. Even a 5% reduction in body weight can help reduce the symptoms significantly. Eliminating sugars and fatty foods can help lower the risk of developing diabetes, high cholesterol levels, and cardiovascular diseases.
• Women leading a sedentary lifestyle must plan and stick to a regular exercise schedule as part of the PCOD solution.
• Cyclic hormonal treatment and ovulation induction medication can help regulate the menstrual cycle.
• Skin treatment can help reduce acne and the darkening of the skin.
• Infertility treatment can help with conception.
• Laparoscopic surgery can help destroy androgen-producing tissue.
• Regular monitoring of health and hormone levels can help prevent PCOD problems in future.

Medication and Surgical Treatment Options for PCOD Problem

The symptoms associated with Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) can be treated with the help of several medicines. In rare cases, your doctor may recommend surgery as well. Some of the treatment protocols for PCOD/PCOS include - 

• Progestin - Progestin, a synthetic progestogen, is often recommended to correct amenorrhea or the absence of periods. 
• Birth control pills - Some birth control pills contain oestrogen and progestin and help reduce the Androgen levels in the body. This helps combat anovulation.
• Letrozole and clomiphene - Letrozole and clomiphene help induce ovulation. 
• Metformin - Metformin reduces insulin resistance and helps with weight reduction as well.
• Immature follicle aspiration - Helps reduce the number of immature follicles, improving ovulation.
• Laparoscopic ovarian drilling - Laparoscopic drilling is a minimally invasive surgery that helps lower testosterone levels produced by the ovaries.

Can PCOD Be Cured Permanently?

“How to cure PCOD permanently?” This is a question researchers and doctors have been working to resolve for the past few decades, given the significant rise in the number of women suffering from the condition.

As of now, there is no permanent cure for PCOD, but most women can lead relatively normal and active lives. This requires an active lifestyle and health management. Each symptom, such as irregular periods, facial hair, weight gain, acne, and infertility, is individually addressed. It is important to keep a positive attitude and stay connected with your doctors to avail of any new treatment options available.

PCOD/PCOS Diet

Diet is an essential component of PCOD problem treatment and symptom management. Weight loss through dietary modifications can help

• Reduce blood glucose and HbA1C levels, lowering your diabetes risk
• Lower insulin
• Improve cholesterol levels
• A low carbohydrate diet is extremely helpful in losing weight and reducing BMR.
• Fresh foods like vegetables and fruits are low in glycaemic index (GI) and help with weight reduction and diabetes management. 
• Avoid processed and packaged foods to lower the risk of hypertension.

Maintaining good health is essential for preventing and treating hormonal disorders and conditions. The best treatment for PCOD and PCOS includes early diagnosis and following a good diet plan.

A diet plan to address PCOD should be like this:

To experience significant relief from PCOD symptoms, it is vital to pair diet modification with a regular exercise program and stress-alleviating activities such as meditation and yoga.

Getting Pregnant With PCOD

Despite the hormonal imbalances and increased risk of miscarriages, several women with PCOD are successful in getting pregnant and carrying their babies to term. Patients may require regular hormone checks, medication, and treatment to stimulate ovulation. 

PCOS is a more severe condition with higher infertility rates. Women with PCOS have ovaries that are larger than normal. The ovaries, however, produce immature eggs that form cysts. Women with PCOS have higher than normal levels of the male hormone Androgen. Androgen inhibits the process by which eggs are released normally. When healthy eggs are not released, they cannot be fertilised, causing infertility issues and difficulties in getting pregnant.

The gynaecologists at Max Hospital are experienced in managing infertility issues and high-risk pregnancies, making it possible for women diagnosed with PCOD/PCOS to carry and deliver babies. If you have been diagnosed with PCOD and are planning to get pregnant, it is important to consult with your doctor and plan to manage your hormones and health accordingly.

PCOD and Mental Health

PCOD is associated with a high prevalence of anxiety and depression. PCOD/PCOS is a condition that requires active, long-term management. The role of a support system in the maintenance of treatment protocols over the long term is a major one.

Women with PCOD/PCOS often suffer from low self-image and body-image issues due to excess body hair, weight gain around the abdomen area, skin darkening and pigmentation around the neck etc. While these symptoms can be treated, friends and family must remain supportive for the woman to maintain positive mental health.

The hormonal imbalance in this condition makes the woman more prone to stress and anxiety. In addition, infertility issues and miscarriages occurring in PCOS can cause depression. Seeking therapy and help can be important in such situations.

Health Management With PCOS

Dealing with PCOS could involve long-term and regular health monitoring. Apart from managing symptoms such as irregular menstruation, infertility, facial and body hair growth, and weight gain, you will need regular monitoring for diabetes, heart conditions, hypertension, and cancer of the uterus/ovaries. 

Management of insulin resistance is one of the key goals of PCOS treatment. In addition, early diagnosis and long-term treatment help prevent diabetes-related PCOD problems in future. 

The doctor may recommend the following tests periodically to monitor your health -  

• Insulin levels
• Lipid Profile
• Blood Sugar levels (Fasting, PP, and HbA1C)
• Hormone tests
• Pelvic ultrasound

Apart from the support offered by doctors, you must remain aware of the causes, symptoms, risks, and management protocols for PCOD/PCOS.

PCOD/PCOS and Cancer Risk

Millions of women across the world are diagnosed with PCOD each year. However, no medical evidence establishes a link between PCOD and ovarian cancer.

Women diagnosed with PCOS are at an increased risk of developing cancer of the endometrium, which is the uterus lining. This is often a result of chronic exposure to oestrogen and exacerbated by comorbid conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.

Women suffering from PCOS may also have a 2 to 3 times higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.

The link between PCOS and breast cancer is not very clear. Researchers have not established a link between a PCOS diagnosis and the risk of developing breast cancer. However, the hormonal imbalance caused by PCOS leads doctors to be wary.

If you suffer from PCOS, your gynaecologist may likely recommend periodic screening for breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancers. 

PCOD and PCOS Treatment at Max Hospital

Max Hospital is one of the premier centres for treating PCOS/PCOD problems. The state-of-the-art facilities offer comprehensive diagnosis and treatment with expert gynaecologists. Max Hospital uses advanced infertility treatment protocols to help women conceive and deliver healthy babies.

The doctor will refer you to an experienced endocrinologist for sustained management of PCOS symptoms. Lifestyle and diet management counsellors are also available at the hospital.

To consult your doctor, you will need to provide detailed information regarding the – 

• Medical history
• Symptoms
• Past treatment history
• Family history
• Medical reports (if any)

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FAQs on PCOD and PCOS

How does PCOS affect women during and after menopause?

PCOS is often thought of as a condition that affects women only during their reproductive years, but its impact can extend well beyond menopause. Even though periods stop after menopause, hormonal imbalances and symptoms, such as insulin resistance, belly fat accumulation, and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes or heart disease may continue. Regular monitoring of metabolic health is important for postmenopausal women with a history of PCOS.

Can a woman have PCOS without developing ovarian cysts?

Yes, absolutely. The name "polycystic ovary syndrome" can be misleading. PCOS is mainly diagnosed based on symptoms such as irregular periods, high androgen levels (male hormones), and signs like acne or excess hair growth. Some women may have normal-looking ovaries on an ultrasound and still meet the criteria for a PCOS diagnosis based on hormone levels and menstrual irregularities.

What is the relationship between PCOS and thyroid disorders?

Thyroid disorders, especially hypothyroidism, are more commonly found in women with PCOS. Both conditions can affect metabolism, energy levels, weight, mood, and menstrual cycles. They may also complicate fertility issues. Since the symptoms often overlap, doctors usually recommend checking thyroid function in women who show signs of PCOS.

Is it common for women with PCOS to have regular menstrual cycles?

It can happen, but it's less common. Some women with PCOS may still menstruate regularly, though their cycles may be slightly longer or shorter than average. Even with a seemingly normal cycle, other symptoms such as acne, hair thinning, or difficulty conceiving may indicate underlying hormonal imbalances.

How frequently should hormone levels be monitored in PCOS management?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer. Hormone monitoring depends on symptoms and treatment goals. For example, women trying to conceive might need more frequent testing, such as tracking ovulation through luteinising hormone (LH) and progesterone levels. Others may need tests every 6 to 12 months to assess how their treatment or lifestyle changes are working.

Can lifestyle changes alone effectively manage PCOS symptoms?

In many cases, yes—especially in the early stages or when symptoms are mild. Regular physical activity, a nutritious diet, weight management, and stress reduction can improve insulin sensitivity and regulate periods. However, some women might still require medications like hormonal contraceptives or insulin-sensitising drugs, depending on their symptoms.

What is the link between PCOS and insulin resistance?

Insulin resistance is very common in women with PCOS and contributes to many of its symptoms. When the body doesn’t respond properly to insulin, it produces more of it, which can lead to increased androgen (male hormone) levels. This, in turn, can disrupt ovulation, cause acne, and promote unwanted hair growth. Managing insulin levels is often a key part of treating PCOS.

Are there specific dietary recommendations for women with PCOS?

Yes. A balanced diet with low glycemic index (GI) foods can help stabilise blood sugar and insulin levels. This means focusing on whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats, and limiting processed snacks, sugary drinks, and refined carbs. Some women may benefit from working with a dietitian to personalise their meal plan.

How does PCOS impact mental health?

Living with PCOS can take an emotional toll. The condition is linked to higher rates of anxiety and depression. Dealing with symptoms like weight gain, acne, hair loss, and fertility issues can affect self-esteem. Hormonal imbalances may also play a role. Mental health support—alongside medical treatment—can be very helpful for overall well-being.

Is long-term use of birth control pills safe for managing PCOS?

For many women, yes. Birth control pills are often prescribed to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce acne, and lower androgen levels. When used under medical supervision, they are considered safe for long-term use. However, it’s important to have periodic health check-ups to assess blood pressure, cholesterol, and other parameters.

Do PCOS and PCOD share the same causes?

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) are similar, but not identical. Both involve hormonal imbalances that affect the ovaries, but PCOS is more severe and has broader metabolic consequences. PCOD is often milder and may not involve as much hormonal disruption. Causes for both may include genetics, insulin resistance, inflammation, and lifestyle factors.