PCOS and PCOD are generally confused against one another, often using the terms interchangeably because they consider them to be the same thing!

The only similarity between them is that both affect women's ovaries. These reproductive organs are responsible for producing hormones (progesterone and estrogen) that help in regulating the menstrual cycle.

Even when these two problems are related to menstrual health and involve the same organs, they are different! And hence have a different impact on your body and infertility.
However, both PCOS and PCOD share an overlap when it comes to symptoms. Some common symptoms include weight gain, irregular periods, acne, excessive hair growth (more common with PCOS) or hair loss.

Let's have a detailed look into both to understand the difference and then understand their relation with infertility.

What is PCOS?

PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. It is a metabolic disorder of the endocrine system. In women with PCOS, the ovaries produce higher than usual levels of androgen, the male hormone that integers with the development and release of the eggs. As a result, the period cycle gets disrupted. Some eggs develop into cysts, which are the bit sacs filled with liquid. Instead of getting released during ovulation, these cysts build up in the ovaries and sometimes even get enlarged.

What is PCOD?

Polycystic Ovary Disorder is a medical condition where the ovaries release the eggs prematurely, which turn into cysts over time. It is a disorder caused by an imbalance of hormones in the reproductive system. This hormonal imbalance leads to the production of the excess male hormone, which leads to irregular periods and delayed egg release.

Impact of PCOS and PCOD on infertility

Between PCOD and PCOS, PCOD does not lead to infertility in all women, and it is generally not to be considered a threat or obstacle towards pregnancy.

Pregnancy for Women with PCOS, however, can be a challenge. This is due to hormonal irregularities. Having a balanced hormonal cycle is essential for creating a healthy environment for the ovum to release and infuse with the sperm. As androgens levels are very high in PCOS, conception becomes difficult.

However, there is no cure for both PCOS and PCOD. Both the conditions can be managed by practising healthy living practices like losing weight and eating a healthy diet free of processed and junk food. You can even include andMe's tasty concoction of all things good and healthy (aka the PCOD tea) to your healthy diet plan, and be sure of feeding your body with all the essential nutrients and minerals that it requires. It is one of the best drinks for PCOS that helps regulate periods and helps develop healthy skin and hair. All of this, along with effective stress management, can show tremendous improvements eventually. You mustn't self-diagnose and visit your OBGYN the moment you notice any changes in your menstrual cycle. Early detection will help in preventing any severe damage to your ovaries. Practising this exercise will ensure the overall wellness of women.