PCOS vs PCOD: What is the Difference and How Are They Treated?

July 24, 2025

Dr.Shanthala.R
MBBS, MS(OBG), DGO Obstetrician & Gynecologist, Gynec Laparoscopic Surgeon, Infertility specialist

PCOD and PCOS terminologies are used interchangeably by most women, even when they are not synonymous. One should learn the difference, which is present between PCOD vs PCOS, as both disorders are rather dissimilar in their nature, symptoms, and treatment approaches. The two ailments can be serious problems, especially when it comes to fertility, but once under the correct management, a woman can successfully deal with the symptoms exhibited. What is the difference between PCOS and PCOD​, the reason behind it, the symptoms of these disorders, how these can be diagnosed and the PCOD and PCOS treatment and where gynaecology in Shimoga is most beneficial to you.

The two prevalent diseases of women of pre-reproductive age are Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Polycystic Ovary Disease (PCOD), which the diseases of the ovary. They disrupt the normal operations of the ovaries, but this also varies depending on how the health and fertility are impacted. Since there has been increased awareness of these disorders, women ought to understand the disparities between the two disorders and seek medical care the soon time possible. The symptoms will be put under control at an early stage and thus preventing long-term development of health complications.

Why PCOD vs PCOS Are Often Confused

There exists a general misunderstanding regarding PCOD vs PCOS, as both of them exist because of the high resemblance in their names or some similar health issues, such as irregular bleeding or the development of cysts on the ovaries. Their causes, long-term effects and hormonal imbalances are, however, not quite similar. The misconception is informed by the fact that the two diseases have some common physical symptoms, and thus, one needs to consult the services of a medical practitioner to get the diagnosis and treatment done right.

PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease): What is it? Causes, Symptoms 

PCOD is a disorder in which the ovaries produce an excess of immature eggs that later develop into cysts. It is not as serious as PCOS and is even more prevalent; it does not necessarily lead to considerable hormonal imbalances. Poor diet, obesity, stress and genetic causes are the main causes of PCOD.

Symptoms of PCOD: 

• Irregular or missed periods, but they are typically not completely absent.
• Mild acne or oily skin.
• Mild weight gain.
• Some excess hair growth, but usually not as much as in PCOS.
• Infertility issues are less common in PCOD than in PCOS.

PCOD vs PCOS: Key Differences

Even though PCOS and PCOD have only been related due to the existence of the cysts in the ovaries, the most outstanding difference is found in the aetiology of hormonal imbalance and its long-term effects.

• PCOS: it is caused by a balance of the hormones due to which women have an excess amount of androgens (male hormones), because of which symptoms are even more severe, such as hirsutism, severe acne and infertility. Aspirin raises the level of cholesterol, and insulin resistance also occurs as a result of PCOS.
• PCOD: PCOD is more structural in that the ovaries are packed with unrefined eggs, leading to the development of cysts. Nobody knows whether it necessarily disturbs the hormonal status or causes severe signs and symptoms, like in PCOS.

Cause and Risk Factors 

Both diseases are connected with genetics, obesity and unhealthy life practices, yet not to a significantly considerable rate PCOS is connected with insulin resistance and PCOD is not at the same time.

• PCOS: PCOS is not well known, but the most probable causes are insulin and hormonal imbalance (overproduction of androgens), genetic peculiarities and inflammatory processes that trigger the disease.
• PCOD: PCOD has been attributed to poor diet, lack of exercise and obesity, which are regarded as unhealthy life habits and genetic reasons.

How is PCOD vs PCOS diagnosed?

A proper diagnosis to establish the condition is necessary to help in the effective treatment of PCOS and PCOD. Typically, the diagnostic process contains:

• Physical Examination: A Gynaecologist will conduct a physical examination of such drugs as excessive hair growth, acne and weight gain symptoms.
• Ultrasound: The cysts on the ovaries will be determined in an ultrasound. Cysts being a common denominator of the two conditions, the number and size of the cysts assist in differentiating the two conditions.
• Blood Tests: They are useful in the diagnosis of imbalances in the hormones, like excess androgens in the case of PCOS or insulin resistance.
• History: The gynaecologist will analyse the menstrual cycle and family history of the patient to distinguish between PCOS and PCOD.

PCOD and PCOS Treatment Options

Although neither of these two conditions is fully curable, one can treat them to alleviate symptoms. Treatment is different for both conditions, with treatment being dependent on the severity and the type of symptoms affected.

PCOS Treatment:

• Hormonal Birth Control: Birth control pills control periods, decrease acne, and control the excessive growth of hair.
• Metformin: The medicine assists in countering insulin resistance, identified in PCOS.
• Fertility Treatments: Women having fertility problems may be prescribed fertility pills as Clomiphene (Clomid), which helps in ovulation.
• Lifestyle Changes: Changing the diet and engaging in exercises to lose weight balances the levels of insulin and is used to control symptoms.

PCOD Treatment:

• Regulation of Menstruation: The use of the hormonal birth control pills aids in the regulation of menstruation.
• Weight Control: Proper diet and exercise to keep the weight at an acceptable level are also important in the control of PCOD symptoms.
• Ovulation Induction: In infertility, there can be prescribed to induce ovulation, but the implementation tends not to be so intensive as in the case of PCOS.
• Insulin Sensitivity: When a situation is characterised by insulin resistance, some medications can normalise the situation, such as Metformin.

Diet and Lifestyle Tips for Management 

The changes in the diet and lifestyle are crucial elements of the treatment of both PCOS and PCOD:

• Healthy Diet: A balanced diet that includes lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins will help control weight and even balance the hormones. In two conditions, you have to restrict the use of processed foods and sugars.
• Physical Activity: Doing some physical activity regularly can assist in keeping a person fit and can help in giving rise to a weight that is healthy weight and in checking the level of insulin.
• Stress Management: Symptoms can be managed by reducing stress through practising methods like yoga, meditation, deep breathing, etc.

When Is It Time to Go to a Doctor? 

Some of the symptoms, like an irregular cycle, hair growth, weight gain without any cause and poor conception, may be seen, and these are some of the signs that a person should consult a doctor. Symptoms might be addressed and alleviated through early determination and treatment, preventing the development of such chronic diseases as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, which accompany both PCOS and PCOD.

Shortcuts to the differences:

• PCOS: PCOS implies hormonal imbalance, excessive androgen levels, and metabolic disorders, which may trigger more severe symptoms and problems with infertility.
• PCOD: PCOD entails cysts on the ovaries, although it does not necessarily lead to hormonal imbalance. There are fewer severe symptoms, and the lack of fertility is less predominant.

The Role of Early Diagnosis and Treatment 

Timely treatment of PCOS or PCOD is important to deal with symptoms and avoid complications. Early treatment can aid us in minimising the long-term outcomes that include infertility, diabetes and heart disease. The lifestyle, medication and frequent check by a medical practitioner can help modify both conditions. 

Why Does Nanjappa Have the Best Gynaecology and Endocrinology in Shimoga?

At Nanjappa Hospital, we understand that both PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) can significantly impact a woman’s health. While the symptoms, such as cysts on the ovaries, may appear similar, the underlying causes and treatment approaches for these conditions are quite different. That is why we offer specialised, tailored care to address both PCOS and PCOD effectively.

With a team of highly experienced specialists, including an Endocrinologist, an Obstetrician-Gynaecologist and a Dietitian, we provide holistic treatment plans designed to manage hormonal imbalances, boost fertility, regulate weight, and improve overall well-being.

Our hospital stands out as the only one across 7 districts offering triple specialisation in Gynaecology, Endocrinology and Dietetics. This unique combination of expertise allows us to offer integrated care that is both comprehensive and efficient. Whether you need to address hormonal regulation, support fertility treatments, or manage weight concerns, you can trust Nanjappa Hospital to provide customised solutions with the highest level of professional care.