Polycystic Ovary Disease (PCOD): Symptoms, Causes, and Difference Between PCOS. An NHS Doctor Explains

Key Takeaways

• PCOD, or Polycystic Ovarian Disease, is a common hormonal disorder that affects how a woman's ovaries function.
• The main features of PCOD include irregular periods, excess androgen (male hormones), and polycystic ovaries.
• PCOD can lead to a range of symptoms, such as irregular menstrual cycles, excessive hair growth, acne, weight gain, and fertility issues.
• Diagnosing PCOD involves a combination of physical examination, blood tests, and imaging scans.

What is PCOD? (Polycystic Ovarian Disease)

Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is a condition where a woman’s ovaries produce immature or partially mature eggs in large numbers, which can eventually develop into cysts.

Unlike Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which is primarily a metabolic disorder and affects approximately 116 million women worldwide, PCOD is more focused on the reproductive aspect, specifically affecting the ovaries.

In PCOD, the ovaries become enlarged and contain multiple small, fluid-filled sacs (follicles) that fail to mature and release eggs regularly.

This disruption in the ovulation process leads to hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, and other symptoms like acne, weight gain, and excess hair growth.

Although PCOD is often less severe than PCOS, it can still lead to fertility challenges and requires attention to manage its symptoms and potential long-term health risks, such as insulin resistance and diabetes.

Understanding the Causes of PCOD

The exact cause of polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) is still not fully understood, but it is often linked to hormone imbalances, particularly high insulin levels.

Many women with PCOD experience insulin resistance, where their cells don’t respond well to insulin. In response, the body produces more insulin, which can trigger an increase in testosterone and other hormonal imbalances.

Excess weight and obesity are also commonly connected to PCOD. Being overweight can worsen insulin resistance and lead to higher production of androgens (male hormones) by the ovaries. 

Some key factors associated with PCOD include:

• Insulin resistance and elevated insulin levels
• Increased androgen production
• Genetic factors and family history
• Excess weight and obesity
• Low-grade inflammation

Understanding these factors is essential for effectively managing PCOD and targeting the root causes of the condition. By addressing these underlying issues, women with PCOD can take steps to improve their overall health and manage symptoms more effectively.

Common Symptoms of PCOD

Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is a complex hormonal condition that can cause a range of troubling symptoms for women. While not all women with PCOD will experience the same set of symptoms, there are several common issues that are frequently reported.

• Irregular Periods: Women with PCOD often experience irregular or no periods at all, making it difficult to get pregnant.
• Excessive Hair Growth: Excess androgen levels can result in excessive hair growth on the face, chest, back, or buttocks.
• Acne and Oily Skin: High androgen levels can lead to the development of acne and oily skin.
• Weight Gain and Difficulty Losing Weight: Many women with PCOD struggle with weight gain and find it challenging to lose weight.
• Hair Thinning and Hair Loss: PCOD can cause thinning of hair on the scalp and hair loss in some women.
• Fertility Issues: PCOD is one of the most common causes of female infertility, as it can lead to irregular or absent ovulation.

Diagnosing PCOD

Diagnosing polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) typically involves a comprehensive assessment by a healthcare provider. To determine if you have PCOD, they will look for at least two of the following key features:

• Irregular menstrual periods: Irregular or absent periods are a common feature of PCOD, often due to the disruption in the normal ovulation process.
• Excess androgen production: Elevated levels of male hormones, such as testosterone, can cause symptoms like excess facial and body hair growth, acne, and male-pattern baldness.
• Polycystic ovaries: The ovaries may appear enlarged with multiple small follicles, as seen on an ultrasound scan, contributing to the diagnosis of PCOD.

If you exhibit at least two of these diagnostic criteria, you may be diagnosed with PCOD. The healthcare provider will also rule out other potential causes for your symptoms, such as thyroid disorders or certain medications.

In addition to a physical examination, your doctor may order several tests to confirm the diagnosis, including:

1. Blood tests to measure your hormone levels, including testosterone, luteinising hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
2. Pelvic ultrasound to check for the presence of polycystic ovaries
3. Other tests, such as an oral glucose tolerance test, to assess insulin resistance, which is commonly associated with PCOD

By considering your symptoms, medical history, and the results of these diagnostic tests, your healthcare provider can determine if you meet the criteria for a PCOD diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan to manage your condition.

Differences Between PCOD and PCOS

Many individuals often use the terms PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) interchangeably, as both conditions involve the presence of numerous small follicles in the ovaries. However, it is crucial to understand the distinct differences between these two hormonal disorders.

Reports indicate that many women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) remain undiagnosed, with only about 50% of those who meet at least two of the three key criteria having a documented diagnosis. 

The primary symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles, elevated levels of male hormones leading to symptoms like excess facial or body hair and acne. 

PCOS is the more widely recognised and accepted medical term, and it is the preferred diagnosis for this condition. While PCOD and PCOS share certain similarities, there are key distinctions that set them apart:

PCOD:

• Definition: Presence of multiple small cysts or follicles in the ovaries, leading to hormonal imbalances.
• Prevalence: Less common condition.
• Symptoms: Irregular menstrual cycles, excessive hair growth, acne, difficulty in weight management.
• Fertility Implications: May cause fertility challenges, but typically less severe than in PCOS.

PCOS:

• Definition: A complex hormonal disorder characterized by excess male hormones (androgens) and numerous small cysts in the ovaries.
• Prevalence: The most common endocrine disorder in women, affecting 5-20% of the female population.
• Symptoms: Irregular menstrual cycles, excessive hair growth, acne, difficulty in weight management, insulin resistance, and increased risk of type 2 diabetes and other metabolic issues.
• Fertility Implications: A leading cause of infertility in women due to hormonal imbalances that disrupt ovulation and impair fertility.

While PCOD and PCOS share similarities, understanding the distinctions between these conditions is essential for proper diagnosis, treatment, and management.

Consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial to ensure appropriate care and support for individuals affected by these hormonal disorders.

Managing and Treating PCOD Symptoms

While there is no cure for polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD), the symptoms can be managed through various approaches. Making lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, exercising regularly, and following a healthy, balanced diet, can help manage PCOD symptoms and reduce the risk of related health problems.

Lifestyle Changes and Diet

Achieving a healthy body weight through diet and exercise can significantly impact PCOD symptoms. Key benefits include:

• Improved insulin sensitivity: Even a small amount of weight loss can help your body better respond to insulin.
• Regulated menstrual cycles: Weight loss can help restore more regular periods.
• Reduced excess hair growth and acne: Losing weight can lower androgen levels, helping to decrease these common symptoms.

A diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods can also help manage PCOD. Focus on:

• Fruits and vegetables: Packed with fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Whole grains: Provide sustained energy and better blood sugar control.
• Lean proteins: Essential for maintaining muscle mass while managing weight.

Medical Treatments and Supplements 

Healthcare providers may prescribe a variety of medications to target specific PCOD symptoms. Birth control pills are often recommended to regulate menstrual cycles and manage hormone levels. Additionally, anti-androgen medications may be prescribed to decrease excess hair growth and acne by lowering elevated male hormone levels.

In addition to these conventional treatments, many women find that incorporating supplements like inositol into their regimen can be beneficial. Inositol, particularly myo-inositol, has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and support hormonal balance, making it a popular supplement for managing PCOS and PCOD symptoms.

Other PCOS supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and magnesium, are also commonly used to address specific concerns related to the condition, offering a more holistic approach alongside medical treatments.

Alternative Therapies

Some women with PCOD may find relief from their symptoms by trying alternative therapies, such as acupuncture or herbal remedies, in addition to or instead of conventional medical treatments. These therapies may help to manage symptoms, although more research is needed to determine their effectiveness.

By working closely with healthcare professionals, women with PCOD can develop a comprehensive management plan that combines lifestyle changes, medical treatments, and, if desired, alternative therapies to effectively manage their symptoms and improve their overall health.

Before you go...

Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is a common hormonal disorder that can significantly impact a woman’s reproductive health and overall well-being.

Characterised by the presence of multiple small cysts in the ovaries, PCOD leads to symptoms such as irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, and fertility challenges. While its exact causes remain unclear, PCOD is often linked to factors like insulin resistance, hormone imbalances, and genetics.

Effective management of PCOD involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medical treatments, and supplements, such as inositol, which can help regulate hormone levels and improve symptoms.

By taking a proactive approach and working closely with healthcare providers, women with PCOD can manage their symptoms, reduce long-term health risks, and improve their quality of life.

Read More

• When Is The Best Time to Take Inositol for PCOS?
• When Is The Best Time to Take Inositol for Weight Loss?
• Can You Take Inositol for Weight Loss Without PCOS?
• How Long Does It Take For Inositol To Work? 
• Can You Get Pregnant With PCOS?
• What Does Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Pain Feel Like?

About Institute of Medical Physics

The Institute of Medical Physics, founded by Dr. Emanuel Paleco, is a leader in Medical and Aesthetic Laser Science, with a flagship clinic in King's Cross and additional locations throughout North London and Essex. We are committed to delivering innovative treatments that prioritise your health and well-being.

Our signature Inositol formula combines Myo-Inositol and D-Chiro-Inositol in a scientifically validated 40:1 ratio, ensuring peak effectiveness. Enhanced with α-Lactalbumin for superior absorption, along with L-Methylfolate, Chromium, and KSM-66 Ashwagandha, this formula offers comprehensive support for your overall health.

At the Institute of Medical Physics, we focus on advancing your wellness through expert care and scientifically-backed solutions.