PCOS vs Endometriosis

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis are both conditions that affect the female reproductive system, but they have distinct characteristics, symptoms, causes, and treatments.

Symptoms:

• PCOS: Common symptoms include irregular or infrequent menstrual cycles, excess body and facial hair (hirsutism), severe acne, male-pattern baldness, obesity, insulin resistance, and diabetes. PCOS can also lead to the formation of fluid-filled sacs (cysts) in the ovaries and infertility.
• Endometriosis: Symptoms primarily involve chronic pelvic pain, painful periods (dysmenorrhea), heavy menstrual bleeding, pain during intercourse, painful bowel movements or urination, and infertility. Endometriosis can also cause abdominal pain and bladder issues.

Causes and Risk Factors:

• PCOS: The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but it involves a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Excess androgen production by the ovaries and adrenal glands, insulin resistance, and obesity are significant contributors. Family history and premature puberty are also risk factors.
• Endometriosis: The exact cause of endometriosis is unclear, but possible factors include retrograde menstruation (where menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvic cavity), genetics, immune system dysfunction, and high estrogen levels. Risk factors include early menarche, family history, short menstrual cycles, heavy menstrual bleeding, and abdominal surgery.

Diagnosis:

• PCOS: Diagnosing PCOS typically involves a physical exam, pelvic ultrasound to detect ovarian cysts, and blood tests to check androgen levels and other metabolic indicators. A history of menstrual cycle irregularities is also reviewed.
• Endometriosis: Diagnosis often requires a pelvic exam, imaging tests like pelvic ultrasound and MRI, and laparoscopy (a surgical procedure to visualize and biopsy endometrial tissue outside the uterus).

Treatment:

• PCOS: Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing long-term health issues. This includes lifestyle changes (such as weight loss, healthy diet, and exercise), medications to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels, and treatments for associated conditions like insulin resistance and diabetes.
• Endometriosis: Treatment aims to manage pain and improve quality of life. This can involve pain relief medications (NSAIDs), hormonal treatments to reduce estrogen levels, and surgical options to remove endometrial tissue or, in severe cases, the uterus and ovaries. Lifestyle changes, such as dietary modifications, can also help manage symptoms.

While both PCOS and endometriosis can significantly impact a woman's health and quality of life, they are distinct conditions with different diagnostic and treatment approaches. If you suspect you have either condition, consult with a healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized care plan.

For more details, read our blog: Understanding the Differences Between PCOS and Endometriosis.