In India, conversations around women’s hormonal health are often ignored or surrounded by stigma. Conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) are still misunderstood and ignored as minor problems or something that will be fixed on their own. These hormonal disorders affect daily life in serious ways causing fatigue, mood swings, weight gain, irregular periods, and fertility challenges.

Recent research shows that 1 in 5 Indian women may be affected by PCOS, while globally, 1 in 10 women live with the condition. Shockingly, nearly 70% remain undiagnosed. Despite this, awareness remains low, and most women only receive a diagnosis during fertility treatment or after years of unmanaged symptoms.

In today’s modern workforce, where women play critical roles across industries, it’s time to bring PCOS and PCOD awareness into the spotlight. HR leaders and employers in India have a real opportunity to support employee wellness by encouraging early diagnosis, offering inclusive health benefits, and making hormonal health a normal part of employee wellness programs.

What is the difference between PCOD vs PCOS?

While the two terms are often confused, here’s a simple explanation:

• PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) happens when the ovaries produce immature eggs, which turn into cysts. This affects ovulation and causes hormonal imbalances.
• PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is more serious, it's a metabolic disorder where hormone levels go out of balance, leading to missed periods, excess male hormones, insulin resistance, and higher long-term health risks.

A quick comparison table

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While both PCOD and PCOS involve ovarian cysts, PCOS is more severe and can lead to serious hormonal and metabolic issues if left untreated. Though symptoms may seem similar, PCOS often needs more ongoing medical care and lifestyle changes to manage effectively.

What are the common symptoms of PCOS and PCOD?

Physical signs:

• Irregular or missed periods
• Sudden weight gain (especially around the belly)
• Excess hair growth (face, chest, back)
• Acne, oily skin, or hair loss

Reproductive symptoms:

• Difficulty in conceiving
• Ovarian cysts (visible on ultrasound)
• Irregular ovulation

Other signs:

• Dark skin patches (neck, armpits & thighs)
• Mood swings, low energy, or depression

These symptoms often go unnoticed or are misunderstood. Regular health check-ups are the only way to catch early signs.

Real Story: “It’s not just about eating healthy — It’s 5x harder for us”

“People often say, ‘Just eat clean and work out—you’ll lose weight.’

But they don’t see what it’s like to live with PCOS. I’ve tried everything, home-cooked meals, workouts, lifestyle changes and still, my weight refuses to budge. With PCOS, your hormones fight against you, and it’s 5 times harder to see results compared to someone without it.

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve heard ‘You must be doing something wrong.’ It’s disheartening. Some days I feel like giving up, but I remind myself: this is not my fault.

I just wish more people understood what we’re really dealing with.”

– Kirtshri, 29, Pune

Essential health check-ups for PCOS and PCOD

Regular screenings can make a huge difference in how effectively PCOS or PCOD is managed. Below are key health check-ups that help with diagnosis and ongoing care:

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These tests are typically done once a year or more often based on symptoms.

Why regular health check-ups are critical

Many women delay seeking help until their symptoms get worse which is why regular health check-ups are so important.

Here’s what they help with:

• Detecting hormonal issues early
• Preventing complications like infertility, diabetes, and obesity
• Understanding irregular periods, weight changes, or mood swings
• Offering peace of mind and clarity for unexplained symptoms

Mental health also plays a role, women with PCOS often face increased anxiety or low self-esteem. Early diagnosis and structured support can help reduce this burden.

For employers and HR leaders, offering preventive health care through benefits can directly improve employee wellness, productivity, and satisfaction.

How HR & Employers can support women with PCOS or PCOD

In workplaces, where long hours and performance pressure are common, these conditions often go unnoticed, making it all the more important for employers and HR leaders to prioritize preventive health care. PCOS and PCOD can silently affect energy, productivity, and mental health at work. Here’s how HRs can support employees better:

• Include PCOS-related screenings in annual health check-up benefits
• Offer OPD consultations with gynecologists and mental health experts
• Enable flexible leave or WFH for treatment 
• Host internal awareness sessions or webinars on women’s health
• Create a culture of privacy, empathy, and open communication

Proactive HR support leads to healthier, more engaged female employees and stronger retention.

Conclusion: Prioritise hormonal health, boost employee wellness

PCOS and PCOD are manageable when caught early. Health check-ups, employee wellness support, and inclusive insurance benefits can help women lead healthier lives and thrive at work.

Partner with Pazcare to include PCOS and PCOD-specific check-ups and mental health support in your employee wellness strategy.