Why do some people call it polycystic ovarian disease and others call it polycystic ovary syndrome?
The terms polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) are commonly used interchangeably. We prefer to use the term polycystic ovary syndrome because it more accurately reflects the complex signs, symptoms and nature of this condition, namely that of a “syndrome.” Syndrome is the favored term because it alludes to the varied signs and symptoms but does not imply a precise cause of the condition – as for PCOS the exact cause has yet to be determined. This definition is in contrast to that of a “disease,” which commonly implies a specific cause for the condition.
