What is PCOS/PCOD?

What is PCOS/PCOD?

If you have ever been told your periods are “a little irregular,” or that acne is “just hormones,” or that stubborn weight is something you just need to “work harder” on, there is a chance the underlying cause was never properly investigated. For millions of women, that underlying cause is PCOS or PCOD.

These are common hormonal conditions affecting ovarian function, metabolism, and reproductive health. They are often underdiagnosed or misunderstood despite being widespread.

How PCOS and PCOD Affect the Body

In a typical menstrual cycle, an egg matures and is released each month during ovulation. Hormones rise and fall in a coordinated pattern, and the cycle repeats regularly.

In PCOS/PCOD, this process is disrupted. The ovaries may develop multiple small fluid-filled follicles, but ovulation may not occur consistently. As a result, hormonal imbalance develops over time.

This imbalance can involve elevated androgen levels (often referred to as “male hormones”) and insulin resistance, both of which contribute to the symptoms associated with the condition.

Common symptoms include irregular or missed periods, acne, excess facial or body hair, scalp hair thinning, weight changes, and mood fluctuations.

PCOS vs PCOD: Are They the Same?

The terms PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) are often used interchangeably, but they are not identical in clinical framing.

• PCOD: Primarily describes a condition where ovaries release immature eggs, which may form cyst-like structures and disrupt normal cycles. It is often milder and more responsive to lifestyle changes.
• PCOS: A broader endocrine and metabolic disorder affecting the entire hormonal system, not just the ovaries. It is associated with metabolic risks such as insulin resistance.

In modern clinical practice, PCOS is the more widely used diagnostic term.

PCOS Statistics and Prevalence

PCOS affects an estimated 8% to 13% of women of reproductive age globally, though prevalence varies based on diagnostic criteria and population studied.

In some regions, including India, reported prevalence ranges from 9% to 36%, reflecting both biological and diagnostic variability.

A significant proportion of cases remain undiagnosed, often until fertility issues arise.

• PCOS is a leading cause of anovulatory infertility, contributing to around 30–40% of infertility cases.
• Women with PCOS have increased risk of insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes.
• Mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression are more commonly reported in affected individuals.

Why PCOS Often Goes Undiagnosed

Historically, PCOS symptoms were often attributed to unrelated causes such as stress, lifestyle, or genetics without further investigation.

The condition was first formally described in 1935, but recognition as a metabolic and endocrine disorder developed much later.

Even today, diagnosis can be delayed due to variability in symptoms and overlap with other conditions. Many patients consult multiple doctors before receiving a clear diagnosis.

Why PCOS Is Becoming More Visible

PCOS is not new, but several modern factors may contribute to increased symptom expression or diagnosis rates.

• Higher prevalence of insulin resistance linked to diet patterns
• Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels
• Sedentary lifestyle and reduced physical activity
• Possible exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (still under research)

These factors may not cause PCOS on their own, but they can influence symptom severity and metabolic health.

Management and Treatment Options

There is no single cure for PCOS, but symptoms can often be effectively managed with a combination of lifestyle and medical interventions.

Dietary changes focusing on low glycaemic foods may help improve insulin sensitivity and hormonal balance in many individuals.

Regular physical activity improves metabolic function and can support more consistent ovulation patterns.

Sleep quality and stress management are also important, as hormonal regulation is closely linked to cortisol levels.

Medical management may include hormonal therapy, insulin-sensitising medications such as metformin, or fertility treatments depending on individual goals.

PCOS and Fertility

PCOS is one of the most common causes of ovulatory infertility. However, many women with PCOS are able to conceive with appropriate management.

Treatment outcomes often improve when metabolic and hormonal factors are addressed before or alongside fertility treatment.

Clinical Support

PCOS affects both reproductive and metabolic health and requires individualized assessment rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

At MMC IVF, patients are evaluated for hormonal, metabolic, and fertility-related aspects of PCOS to guide appropriate treatment planning.

Key Takeaway

PCOS and PCOD are common, long-standing hormonal conditions that are often underdiagnosed. They are not caused by personal fault or lifestyle alone, and they can often be managed effectively once properly identified.

If symptoms such as irregular cycles, persistent acne, weight changes, or difficulty conceiving are present, a targeted medical evaluation for PCOS can provide clarity and direction for treatment.