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Home > Blog > PCOD vs PCOS: Symptoms, Differences, and Pregnancy Guide

PCOD vs PCOS: Symptoms, Differences, and Pregnancy Guide

PCOD vs PCOS: Symptoms, Differences, and Pregnancy Guide

By - Max Lab

Updated on: Feb 25, 2026 | 4 min read

Table of Contents

    Hormonal disorders affecting women’s reproductive health are becoming increasingly common today, especially conditions like PCOS Vs PCOD. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they represent different conditions with distinct causes, symptoms, and health implications. Understanding the differences between PCOD and PCOS is essential for early diagnosis, effective treatment, and fertility planning. This guide covers symptoms, causes, weight management, exercise, diet, and pregnancy concerns associated with these conditions.

    What is PCOD?

    PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) is a condition in which the ovaries produce immature eggs that can accumulate and form cysts. This leads to hormonal imbalance, irregular menstrual cycles, and weight issues. PCOD is often manageable with lifestyle changes and medication.

    • Reason for PCOD

    The primary causes of PCOD include hormonal imbalance, genetic predisposition, unhealthy eating habits, stress, and a sedentary lifestyle. Irregular ovulation also plays a key role in developing this condition.

    What is PCOS?

    PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a more severe endocrine and metabolic disorder. It involves high androgen levels, insulin resistance, and metabolic complications that affect ovulation, fertility, and overall health.

    • Causes for PCOS

    PCOS is caused by a combination of genetic factors, insulin resistance, hormonal imbalance, and lifestyle-related factors such as obesity and inactivity.

    Feature

    PCOD

    PCOS

    Nature

    Ovarian disorder

    Hormonal and metabolic syndrome

    Severity

    Mild to moderate

    Severe

    Hormonal imbalance

    Mild

    High androgen levels

    Weight issues

    Moderate

    Significant PCOS weight gain

    Fertility impact

    Usually treatable

    Higher infertility risk

    Long-term health risks

    Low

    Higher risk of diabetes and heart disease

     

    Symptoms of PCOD and PCOS

    Both conditions share some symptoms, but PCOS symptoms are usually more severe.

    Common symptoms:

    Additional symptoms in PCOS:

    These differences highlight why understanding PCOS vs PCOD is important for proper diagnosis and treatment.

    Effects of PCOS on Health

    The effects of PCOS go beyond reproductive health. Women with PCOS may face metabolic disorders, mental health challenges, and cardiovascular risks. Long-term complications can include Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and endometrial cancer if untreated.

    PCOS can also lead to insulin resistance, which increases the risk of obesity and metabolic syndrome. Many women experience chronic fatigue, mood swings, anxiety, and depression due to hormonal imbalances. Additionally, high androgen levels may cause acne, excessive hair growth, and scalp hair thinning, impacting self-esteem and quality of life. If left unmanaged, PCOS can contribute to infertility, pregnancy complications, and long-term heart health issues, making early diagnosis and lifestyle intervention essential.

     

    Weight Management in PCOD and PCOS

    Weight gain is a common issue in both conditions, especially PCOS.

    PCOS weight loss

    Losing weight with PCOS can be challenging due to insulin resistance. However, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management can significantly improve symptoms and hormonal balance.

    PCOS diet plan to lose weight

    • Low glycaemic index foods
    • High-fibre vegetables and fruits
    • Lean proteins like chicken, fish, and legumes
    • Healthy fats such as nuts and seeds
    • Avoid sugary and processed foods

    PCOD diet chart for weight loss

    • Whole grains like oats and brown rice
    • Green leafy vegetables
    • Low-fat dairy products
    • Plenty of water
    • Reduced intake of refined carbohydrates

    Working Out with PCOS

    Working out with PCOS is highly recommended to manage symptoms. Regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity, helps in weight management, and reduces stress.

    Recommended exercises:

    • Brisk walking or jogging
    • Strength training
    • Yoga and Pilates
    • High-intensity interval training (HIIT)

    Consistency is key to improving hormonal balance and overall health.

    Pregnancy Guide with PCOS and PCOD

    Women with PCOD and PCOS often worry about fertility, but polycystic ovaries and pregnancy are not mutually exclusive. Many women successfully conceive with proper treatment and lifestyle changes. Managing weight, following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and taking prescribed medications can significantly improve ovulation and fertility. In PCOS, ovulation-inducing medications, insulin-sensitising drugs, and assisted reproductive techniques may be recommended by doctors. Regular monitoring by a gynaecologist is essential to reduce pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.

    Pregnancy tips:

    • Maintain a healthy weight
    • Follow a balanced diet
    • Take prescribed medications
    • Manage stress
    • Consult a gynaecologist regularly

    With early diagnosis and proper management, a successful pregnancy is possible.

    Treatment Options for PCOD and PCOS

    PCOD Treatment:

    • Healthy diet and exercise
    • Stress management
    • Period regulation medication if needed
    • Hormonal therapy
    • Insulin-sensitising medications
    • Fertility treatments
    • Lifestyle modifications

    Conclusion

    Understanding PCOD VS PCOS is essential for women’s reproductive and hormonal health. While both conditions are common, PCOS is more severe and requires medical attention. Lifestyle changes, diet, exercise, and early diagnosis can help manage symptoms and improve fertility outcomes. If you experience symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

    PCOS is more serious than PCOD because it involves hormonal imbalance, metabolic issues, and long-term health risks like diabetes, infertility, and heart problems, while PCOD is usually lifestyle-related and easier to manage.

    PCOD mainly involves irregular periods and ovarian cysts, while PCOS includes hormonal imbalance, high androgen levels, insulin resistance, and symptoms like acne, weight gain, excessive hair growth, and difficulty conceiving.

    Women with PCOS should maintain a healthy diet, monitor blood sugar, exercise moderately, manage weight, and attend regular prenatal check-ups to reduce risks like gestational diabetes, hypertension, and preeclampsia during pregnancy.

    PCOD during pregnancy may cause irregular ovulation, difficulty conceiving, hormonal fluctuations, fatigue, and mild insulin resistance, but complications are usually fewer compared to PCOS-related pregnancies and generally manageable with medical care.

    The ideal age to conceive with PCOS is generally in the mid-20s to early 30s, when fertility is higher, and health risks are lower compared to later reproductive years, improving pregnancy outcomes.

    PCOD does not have a permanent cure, but it can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes, a balanced diet, exercise, and medications to regulate periods, improve fertility, and reduce symptoms like weight gain and acne.

    Want to book a Blood Test?

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

    PCOS is more serious than PCOD because it involves hormonal imbalance, metabolic issues, and long-term health risks like diabetes, infertility, and heart problems, while PCOD is usually lifestyle-related and easier to manage.

    PCOD mainly involves irregular periods and ovarian cysts, while PCOS includes hormonal imbalance, high androgen levels, insulin resistance, and symptoms like acne, weight gain, excessive hair growth, and difficulty conceiving.

    Women with PCOS should maintain a healthy diet, monitor blood sugar, exercise moderately, manage weight, and attend regular prenatal check-ups to reduce risks like gestational diabetes, hypertension, and preeclampsia during pregnancy.

    PCOD during pregnancy may cause irregular ovulation, difficulty conceiving, hormonal fluctuations, fatigue, and mild insulin resistance, but complications are usually fewer compared to PCOS-related pregnancies and generally manageable with medical care.

    The ideal age to conceive with PCOS is generally in the mid-20s to early 30s, when fertility is higher, and health risks are lower compared to later reproductive years, improving pregnancy outcomes.

    PCOD does not have a permanent cure, but it can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes, a balanced diet, exercise, and medications to regulate periods, improve fertility, and reduce symptoms like weight gain and acne.

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