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What’s the Difference Between PCOS and Endometriosis?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis are two of the most common conditions affecting women’s reproductive health. 
Both can cause irregular periods, fertility challenges, and significant discomfort, which is why they’re often mistaken for each other. However, they are very different in how they develop, the symptoms they cause, and how they’re treated.
 
What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder where the ovaries produce higher-than-normal levels of androgens, and this hormonal imbalance can mess with ovulation and cause multiple small follicles, which are mistaken for “cysts,” growing on the ovaries.
 
Common symptoms of PCOS are
  • Irregular or missed periods
  • Excess hair growth on the face, chest, or back (hirsutism)
  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
  • Acne or oily skin
  • Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp
  • Infertility due to a lack of ovulation
Note: Women with PCOS are at higher risk for insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease.
 
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, such as on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic lining. 
Every month, this tissue reacts to hormonal changes, thickening, breaking down, and bleeding, but unlike the uterine lining, it has no means of exiting the body. 
This can lead to inflammation, scar tissue, and chronic pain.
 
Common symptoms of endometriosis are
  • Severe menstrual cramps that don’t improve with painkillers
  • Chronic pelvic pain
  • Heavy or prolonged periods
  • Pain during or after sex
  • Pain during urination or bowel movements, especially during periods
  • Fertility issues because of scarring or blocked fallopian tubes
Note: Unlike PCOS, Endometriosis doesn’t increase the risk of diabetes, but it can lead to ongoing pelvic pain and complications with fertility.
 
The Differences Between PCOS and Endometriosis 
Cause
  • PCOS: Hormonal imbalance (high androgens, insulin resistance)
  • Endometriosis: Misplaced endometrial-like tissue
Main Symptoms
  • PCOS: Irregular periods, excess hair, acne, weight gain
  • Endometriosis: Severe pelvic pain, heavy periods, painful sex
Fertility Issues
  • PCOS: Due to a lack of ovulation
  • Endometriosis: Due to scarring or blockages in the reproductive organs
Diagnosis
  • PCOS: Blood tests and ultrasound
  • Endometriosis: Laparoscopy (minor surgery) or imaging
Treatment
  • PCOS: Lifestyle changes, hormone therapy, fertility drugs
  • Endometriosis: Pain management, hormonal therapy, surgery
Is It Possible to Have PCOS and Endometriosis?
Yes, some women are diagnosed with both PCOS and Endometriosis, which can make symptoms worse. In some cases, doctors give treatment plans based on hormonal imbalances, pain, and reproductive health together.
 
Treatment Options for Both PCOS and Endometriosis
For PCOS, here are the treatment options:
For Endometriosis, here are the treatment options:
To Recap…
PCOS and endometriosis share some similarities, but they are distinct conditions with underlying causes. PCOS is primarily a hormonal disorder, while endometriosis is a tissue disorder involving abnormal growth outside the uterus. 
These two conditions can affect fertility and quality of life, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, women with these conditions can manage symptoms and improve their well-being.
Have you been diagnosed with PCOS, endometriosis, or both? 
 
 
 
 
Researched by Mercy Adeniyi.
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