1. Meaning
- PCOD: A condition where ovaries release immature or partially mature eggs, which turn into cysts. It’s more commonly used in India.
- PCOS: A metabolic disorder where hormonal imbalance leads to multiple symptoms, including cysts. It is globally recognized and more serious.
Causes of PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease)
1. Unhealthy Lifestyle
- Poor diet (junk food, excess sugar)
- Lack of exercise
- Irregular sleep patterns
2. Obesity or Weight Gain
- Leads to hormonal imbalance and irregular ovulation
3.Stress
- Increases cortisol → disrupts reproductive hormones
4. Insulin Resistance
- Body doesn’t use insulin properly → weight gain & irregular cycles
Causes of PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
1.Genetic / Hereditary Factors
- Strong family history of PCOS, diabetes, or hormonal disorders
2. Hormonal Imbalance
- Increased levels of androgens (male hormones like testosterone)
- Leads to acne, facial hair, and anovulation (no egg release)
3. Insulin Resistance
- Body resists insulin → pancreas makes more insulin
- Excess insulin increases androgens, which disrupt ovulation
4.Inflammation
- Chronic low-grade inflammation can increase androgen levels
5. Disrupted Ovulation Cycle
- Irregular periods or no periods → follicles turn into cysts
Comparison: Causes of PCOD vs PCOS
|
Cause |
PCOD |
PCOS |
|
Genetic |
Rare |
Very common |
|
Insulin resistance |
Possible |
Key cause |
|
Hormonal imbalance |
Mild |
Severe |
|
Lifestyle/diet |
Major contributor |
Triggers or worsens condition |
|
Obesity |
Can trigger symptoms |
Common result and cause |
|
Stress |
Affects cycle |
Worsens hormonal imbalance |
|
Inflammation |
Rare |
Often involved |
|
Symptom |
PCOD |
PCOS |
|
Irregular periods |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Weight gain |
Possible |
Common and significant |
|
Acne/Facial hair |
Mild |
Often more prominent |
|
Infertility |
Rare |
Common |
|
Hair thinning |
Mild |
Often severe |
Common Symptoms of PCOD vs PCOS
|
Symptom |
PCOD |
PCOS |
|
Irregular periods |
Yes |
Yes (often more severe) |
|
Hormonal imbalance |
Mild |
High androgens (testosterone) |
|
Acne and oily skin |
Mild to moderate |
Common and persistent |
|
Hair thinning |
Slight |
Often severe (female pattern baldness) |
|
Facial/body hair (hirsutism) |
Rare or mild |
Common (especially chin, chest) |
|
Weight gain |
Possible, especially in abdomen |
Common and harder to manage |
|
Fatigue |
Sometimes |
Frequently reported |
|
Cravings / Insulin resistance |
Mild |
Common (linked with pre-diabetes) |
|
Fertility issues |
Rare |
Common (due to lack of ovulation) |
|
Mood swings / depression |
Less common |
Common (due to hormonal imbalance) |
|
Risk of other diseases |
Low |
High (diabetes, heart disease) |
Symptoms Seen in Both:
- Irregular or missed periods
- Difficulty losing weight
- Acne or oily skin
- Hair thinning or hair loss
PCOS-Specific Symptoms (More Severe):
- Dark patches on skin (neck, underarms) – Acanthosis Nigricans
- Enlarged ovaries with multiple cysts
- Infertility or anovulation
- Higher risk of diabetes and metabolic syndrome
Top Home Remedies for PCOD & PCOS
1. Cinnamon (Dalchini)
- Why: Regulates insulin and menstrual cycle.
- How: Mix ½ tsp cinnamon powder in warm water. Drink daily.
2. Fenugreek Seeds (Methi Dana)
- Why: Helps improve insulin sensitivity and weight loss.
- How: Soak 1 tsp seeds overnight, eat on empty stomach.
- 3. Apple Cider Vinegar
- Why: Reduces insulin resistance and supports weight loss.
- How: Mix 1-2 tsp in warm water, drink before meals.
4. Yoga & Exercise
- Why: Reduces stress, balances hormones, improves ovulation.
- Best Poses:
- Butterfly Pose (Baddha Konasana)
- Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana)
- Child’s Pose (Balasana)
- Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation)
- 5. Spearmint Tea
- Why: Reduces testosterone, controls facial hair growth.
- How: Drink 1–2 cups daily.
6. Balanced Diet (PCOS-friendly)
- Focus on:
- High fiber (vegetables, fruits, whole grains)
- Lean protein (tofu, eggs, lentils)
- Healthy fats (nuts, seeds, olive oil)
- Avoid:
- Sugar, processed food, dairy (in some cases), and refined carbs
7. Stress Management
- Why: Stress increases cortisol → worsens PCOS symptoms.
- Try:
- Meditation
- Deep breathing
- Journaling or walking in nature
8. Aloe Vera Juice
- Why: Detoxifies the body and supports hormone balance.
- How: 1–2 tbsp aloe vera juice with warm water in the morning.
Bonus Tips
- Sleep 7–8 hrs daily
- Stay hydrated
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Track your cycle regularly