Two common and poorly understood diseases among women of reproductive age are Polycystic Ovarian Disorder (PCOD) and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Although they are taken to mean the same, PCOD and PCOS are not the same. However, both diseases are associated with the imbalance of hormones and ovarian problems, but their severity, causes and implications are different.
Unfortunately, there are many myths and misconceptions about these conditions which may cause problems as far as understanding, diagnosis, and treatment is concerned. This article pretends to bust the most popular myths surrounding PCOD and PCOS with the goal to empower the women with the right knowledge and healthcare decision-making.

Myth 1: PCOD and PCOS Are the Same Thing

Reality:
Though they have similar symptoms and are connected to the ovaries and hormones, the two cases are not the same as they are not PCOD and PCOD respectively.

•  PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) is the condition where the ovaries excrete many immature or partially mature eggs which develop into cysts with time. It is common and not severe.
•  PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is an endocrine condition in which the ovaries produce excessive male chemicals (androgens), that hinders ovulation.
  PCOS has been given a more severe condition that has wider metabolic effects when compared to PCOD.

Myth 2: You Cannot Get Pregnant If You Have PCOD/PCOS

Reality:
Although PCOD and PCOS may reduce the fertility levels because of the irregular ovulation, getting pregnant is not impossible with these two conditions. Many of these women get pregnant naturally or with the fertility assistance and lifestyle intervention. Proper diagnosis at an early age and management enhances the fertility outcomes.

Myth 3: Only Overweight Women Get PCOD or PCOS

Reality:
The weight gain is a symptom and not a cause of PCOD and PCOS. Although, it is true that quite a number of women with these conditions may be challenged by their weight, both lean and average weight women can have PCOD or PCOS. In fact, a lot of slim women might not be diagnosed in time because their symptoms will be ignored or ascribed to other conditions.

Myth 4: It’s Just a Reproductive Issue

Reality:
PCOD and PCOS are reproductive health issues beyond reproductive health. They may have long term consequences such as:

•  Insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes
•  Increased risk of cardiovascular disease
•  Hormonal imbalances
•  Mental health issues (like, anxiety, and depression)
•  Sleep apnea
  A systemic metabolic disease, PCOS in particular is not only a gynecological problem, but also a general problem.

Myth 5: Birth Control Pills Are the Only Solution

Reality:
Whereas oral contraceptives may be used to regulate the periods and to reduce such symptoms as acne and hair growth, they do not address the underlying cause. The treatment or management of PCOD/PCOS is holistic in nature.

•  Modification of lifestyle (healthy meal intake and regular exercises)
•  Stress management
•  Blood sugar control
•  Medicines, such as Metformin (if required)
•  Supplements (based on deficiencies)
  The best type of treatment plan that can be taken is the one that is personalized and is recommended by the gynecologist or the endocrinologist.

Myth 6: Irregular Periods Always Mean PCOD/PCOS

Reality:
Irregular periods may be caused by a variety of factors like:

•  Thyroid issues
•  Stress
•  Extreme weight loss or gain
•  Other hormonal imbalances
  Although it is one of the main symptoms of PCOD/PCOS, the irregular periods are not enough for the diagnosis. Medical testing in the form of blood test and ultrasound is needed.

Myth 7: PCOD/PCOS Is Rare

Reality:
PCOD and PCOS are very common, particularly in the urban areas. Researches indicate that the proportion of women in India who suffer from PCOD/PCOS may be up to 1 in 5, and the numbers worldwide are no less impressive. Awareness and early detection is essential in health in the long run.

Myth 8: Facial Hair Growth and Acne Mean You Have PCOD/PCOS

Reality:
These are some of the probable symptoms as a result of more androgens but are not specific to PCOD or PCOS. Other causes of acne and hirsutism (excess facial or body hair) are other hormonal problems or lifestyle choices. Once again, diagnosis has to be made with the combination of symptoms and clinical tests.

Myth 9: You Can’t Do Anything About It

Reality:
While there is no “permanent cure” for PCOD or PCOS, both can be made to behave very well. Many of them live normal lives with regular periods, normal pregnancies and controlled symptoms by:

•  Nutrition (low-GI, anti-inflammatory diet)
• Regular exercise (strength training and cardio in particular).
•  Adequate sleep
• Supplements like Vitamin D, Magnesium, Omega-3s
•  Regular health checkups

Myth 10: It Will Go Away After Marriage or Childbirth

Reality:
This is a common myth that has no medical backup. PCOD and PCOS are two chronic diseases. Symptoms of hormonal imbalance may vary throughout critical stages in life such as pregnancy or menopause, but getting married or childbirth does not treat the imbalances. Ongoing management is key.