PCOD Vs PCOS: The Differences And Natural Remedies To Manage Them!

Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) are two common conditions affecting millions of women during their reproductive years. When it comes to PCOD vs PCOS, it is important first to understand the differences between the two as these conditions often sound similar.

Usually, women get confused about PCOD and PCOS and use the terms interchangeably, but they do have some differences. While these conditions affect women’s ovaries and hormonal balance, certain distinctions set them apart.

This blog will look closely at these terms and know their symptoms, causes, and natural remedies to treat them. So, let’s get started.

What Are PCOD And PCOS?

Women often seek clarifications on PCOD vs PCOS. So, before understanding the major differences between them, let’s first discuss what these conditions are:

PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease)

Every month, an egg is released by the woman’s ovaries. However, when these two ovaries release immature or partially-matured eggs that become cysts, this issue is known as PCOD. Try Fitelo’s PCOD calculator to understand and manage your symptoms.

It mainly happens when the female is:

• Overweight
• Eats excessive junk food
• Going through hormonal disturbance
• Has extreme stress

All these disorders finally result in infertility, irregular periods, hair loss, abdominal weight gain, etc.

It becomes more dangerous when the size of the ovaries increases, and it starts emitting a heavy amount of androgen, which affects women’s bodies and fertility unfavorably. 

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

PCOS is more complex and involves not only ovarian cysts but also hormonal imbalances and metabolic issues. According to WHO, PCOS affects an estimated 8–13% of women of reproductive age, and up to 70% of cases are undiagnosed worldwide.

• It is a common hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age. It usually starts during adolescence, but symptoms may fluctuate over time. PCOS is a chronic condition and cannot be cured.
  
• PCOS can cause hormonal imbalances, irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and cysts in the ovaries.
  
• Irregular periods, usually with a lack of ovulation, can make it difficult to become pregnant. PCOS is a leading cause of infertility.
• PCOS is also associated with increased risks for miscarriage and infertility, liver problems, depression and anxiety, and heart problems.
  
• Women with PCOS are four times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes and twice as likely to develop metabolic syndrome.

What Is The Difference Between PCOD Vs PCOS?

Now we understand about PCOD and PCOS. Let’s move further by knowing the differences in the causes, symptoms, and other aspects of these two conditions.

Aspects	PCOD	PCOS
Causes	PCOD is caused by a hormonal imbalance, especially high levels of androgens (male hormones).	PCOS is a genetic disorder influenced by environmental factors, such as obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammation.
Symptoms	Symptoms are Irregular periods, Weight Gain, Acne, hair growth on the face and body, hair loss, mood fluctuations, and infertility.	PCOS affects metabolically, and the symptoms might start showing during the teenage years. Some common symptoms of PCOS include loss of hair, male pattern baldness, irritability/mood swings, headache, weight gain, and infertility.
Occurrence	PCOD is a commonly observed condition affecting 1/3rd women worldwide.	It is relatively low compared to PCOD.
Diagnosis	PCOD is diagnosed by ultrasound alone, where the ovaries are filled with follicles and do not appear much larger.	PCOS diagnosis includes a combination of clinical, biochemical, and ultrasound criteria where images show larger ovaries, which are around 1.5 – 3 times larger than the normal-appearing ovaries.
Health Risks	PCOD is not associated with a higher risk of long-term health problems.	PCOS affects the whole body and can increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, endometrial cancer, and infertility.
Treatment	PCOD can be managed with lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, and stress reduction.	PCOS can be treated with medication, surgery, or natural remedies, such as herbs, supplements, and acupuncture.

While facing PCOD vs PCOS, each woman may have different contributing factors that lead to their specific condition. Consulting with a health specialist is required for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Top 7 Natural Remedies To Manage PCOD And PCOS

When it comes to managing PCOD (Polycystic Ovary Disease) and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), many women seek natural remedies to alleviate their symptoms. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, incorporating certain lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in managing these conditions.

1. Eating A Balanced Diet: Eating the right foods and avoiding certain ingredients in your PCOS vs PCOD diet plans may help balance the hormones and regulate the menstrual cycle. Some diet tips are:

• Eat whole foods free from artificial sugars, hormones, and preservatives, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
  
• Balance carb and protein intake, as both affect energy and hormone levels. Choose plant-based protein sources, such as nuts, legumes, and whole grains, as food to eat in PCOD.
  
• To reduce inflammation and insulin resistance, include anti-inflammatory food for PCOS, like olive oil, tomatoes, leafy greens, fatty fish, and tree nuts.
  
• Eat iron-rich foods like spinach, eggs, and broccoli to prevent iron deficiency or anemia due to heavy bleeding. Consume magnesium-rich foods like almonds, cashews, and bananas to improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.
  
• Foods to avoid in PCOD include sugary foods, refined carbs, and processed snacks. Also, reduce caffeine, as it can increase the stress hormones and worsen the symptoms.

2. Maintaining A Healthy Weight: Weight management helps with the symptoms of PCOD vs PCOS by improving hormonal balance and insulin sensitivity. Losing weight can also enhance fertility and reduce the risk of complications. 

There are many natural remedies for PCOS weight loss that you can try.

3. Regular Exercise: Physical activity helps with weight management and improves insulin sensitivity and hormone regulation. Activities like walking, cycling, yoga, or swimming can be effective options.

These physical activities can help with the symptoms of PCOS and PCOD by burning calories, lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and boosting mood and energy. Exercise can also improve the ovulation and menstrual cycle.

4. Develop Healthy Sleeping Habits: Besides your eating habits, sleeping habits are crucial while maintaining a healthy weight. Feeling sleepy during the daytime is a common disorder seen in women suffering from PCOS or PCOD.

• It would help if you tried to sleep at least 9 hours per day.
  
• Try to fix your caffeine routine for a good night’s sleep. Start avoiding caffeine intake after 2:00 PM, avoid alcohol in the evening, and have heavy meals for dinner.
  
• Also, take a warm bubble bath to maintain a relaxing bedtime routine and avoid screen time in bed.

5. Avoid Alcohol And Cigarettes: Did you know that the consumption of cigarettes and alcohol will increase the production of androgen? Also, smoking increases metabolic syndrome that is harmful to health. Nicotine worsens the androgen levels in women, aggravating the conditions of PCOD and PCOS.

Alcohol consumption is strictly restricted in PCOD vs PCOS as it causes a temporary increase in estrogen and progesterone levels. It causes disturbance in hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle. 

6. Stress Management: Chronic stress can worsen hormonal imbalances; therefore, finding ways to relax and unwind is crucial. Practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy can help reduce stress levels.

Managing stress can help with the symptoms of PCOS and PCOD by lowering the cortisol and adrenaline levels, which can affect the hormones, insulin, and inflammation. Stress can also impair ovulation and fertility.

7. Seed Cycling: Seed cycling is a method wherein different seeds, such as sesame, flax, pumpkin, and sunflower seeds, are eaten in sync with the menstrual cycle.

• The idea is to consume flax and pumpkin seeds during the first phase, i.e., the follicular phase, which lasts for the first 14 days of the month. It is followed by a combination of sesame and sunflower seeds during the second or luteal phase, i.e., from day 15-28 days.
  
• These nutrient-dense seeds provide essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, zinc, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids. The process is safe and helps with the symptoms of PCOD and PCOS.

It would be best if you adopted natural remedies under the guidance of a health specialist or naturopathic doctor specializing in women’s health issues. They will provide personalized advice based on your specific condition and needs.

Bottomline

PCOD and PCOS may sound similar, but they are two distinct conditions that affect women’s reproductive health. PCOD is a hormonal imbalance characterized by multiple cysts on the ovaries, and PCOS involves various symptoms and can lead to long-term health issues if left untreated.

Understanding the causes and symptoms while discussing PCOD vs PCOS is necessary for early detection and effective management. Along with lifestyle changes, there are also natural remedies available that can help manage the symptoms of both these issues in women.

You can also connect with our Fitelo experts for more guidance and customized diet plans to manage PCOD and PCOS effectively. By taking proactive steps towards improving your overall well-being through holistic approaches, you can optimize your chances of living a fulfilling life despite having PCOD or PCOS.

PCOS Weight Loss Of Shevi – Shed 8 Kg In 30 Days!

Shevi, a young girl from Himachal Pradesh, approached Fitelo regarding her weight gain concern and PCOS. Our dieticians devised the perfect diet plan to help her lose weight and manage her PCOS symptoms. 

As a result, Shevi could lose 8 kgs in just 30 days while overcoming her PCOS issue! Read her full transformation story below:

PCOS Weight Loss: An Inspiring Success Journey of A Young Girl | Fitelo

4 Reasons Why You Are Not Losing Weight With PCOS – Fitelo

Are you struggling to lose weight with PCOS? So, these four factors can be the reason for not losing weight with this syndrome. Watch this video by Dietician Mac Singh and learn weight loss tips for struggling with PCOS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are PCOD And PCOS Both The Same?

No, PCOD and PCOS are not the same. They are different hormonal disorders that affect the ovaries and the menstrual cycle. A hormonal imbalance causes PCOD, while PCOS is a genetic disorder that is influenced by environmental factors.

What Are The Foods To Avoid With PCOS And PCOD?

For both PCOS and PCOD, avoid refined carbohydrates, sugary foods, and processed snacks to help manage insulin resistance, and opt for a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, and vegetables.

Which Is More Serious, PCOS Or PCOD?

PCOD is generally less severe, while PCOS may pose a higher risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and endometrial cancer, particularly in later stages.

Contact Us Today

Get in touch with our expert team at Fitelo to kick-start your transformative journey! Let us guide you toward your weight loss goals and help you cultivate sustainable and healthy eating habits. So, contact us today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you with Fitelo!

Disclaimer

This blog was written to help you make healthy and better food choices. So, be aware and take care. The vital thing to consider is your health before starting a restrictive diet. Therefore, before starting, always seek advice from a doctor/dietitian if you have any concerns.

Eat Healthy, Live Healthy. Enjoy a long, happy life.