Endometriosisandpolycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS) are both linked to hormonal imbalances and can lead to infertility.
However, these two conditions affect femalereproductive organsdifferently.
This article explains the differences between PCOS and endometriosis.
Photo Illustration by Zack Angeline for Verywell Health; Getty Images
It also discusses the symptoms of each and how they are diagnosed and treated.
Endometriosis causes chronic pelvic pain, while PCOS is ametabolic disorder.
What Is Endometriosis?
The innermost lining of the uterus is called theendometrium.
Endometriosis is the most common cause of pelvic pain in women of childbearing age.
What Is PCOS?
PCOS takes place if the ovaries andadrenal glandsproduce too much androgen hormone.
This is called hyperandrogenism.
Theovarieshave several important functions, including the release of reproductive hormones.
The growth and release of an egg from the ovary (ovulation) depend on those reproductive hormones.
In addition, cysts (fluid-filled sacs) form in the ovaries of most people with PCOS.
Symptoms
Endometriosis and PCOS have a few common symptoms, including heavy menstrual periods and infertility.
However, several differences set them apart.
It can also cause bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunction.
Signs of PCOS are more systemic.
PCOS is a metabolic disorder.
Fat cells also release androgens, which is why it’s not uncommon for obese people to experience PCOS.
Hyperandrogenism also leads to insulin resistance anddiabetes.
Additionally, the hormonal changes lead to anovulation, subsquently irregular menstrual cycles, and possible infertility.
Risk factors for having PCOS include:
Is There a Link Between Endometriosis and PCOS?
Therefore, a link between the two gynecologic disorders cannot be made.
Can You Have Both?
Although rare, people can have both endometriosis and PCOS.
Such reported cases show that endometriosis is often mild when found in combination with PCOS.
Diagnosis
Endometriosis and PCOS require several tests to confirm their diagnosis.
Endometriosis often takes longer to diagnose than PCOS.
If medications relieve your symptoms, you likely have endometriosis.
How Endometriosis Is Treated
Treatment for endometriosis is often geared toward pain management.
However, considering the person’s desire for pregnancy is also important.
Endometriosis comes up whenever endometrial tissue travels outside the uterus and damages other organs.
PCOS results in signs of androgen excess and infertility.
Endometriosis and PCOS are managed with medications, surgery, and lifestyle changes.
Although treatable, neither condition is curable.
A Word From Verywell
Endometriosis and PCOS can be frustrating conditions to manage.
Fortunately, they rarely occur together, but each disorder can negatively affect your quality of life.
It’s essential to have social support in addition to medical help when living with endometriosis or PCOS.
Frequently Asked Questions
No.
Endometriosis does not usually cause weight gain; most people with this condition are average or underweight.
PCOS and endometriosis are not linked and do not trigger one another.
PCOS is not considered an autoimmune disease; it is the most common endocrine disorder in women.
A diet of natural ingredients and rich in fresh fruits and vegetables improves symptoms of endometriosis and PCOS.
Exercising also improves quality of life.
PCOS has been shown to increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as endometrial cancer.
PCOS and endometriosis have high rates of infertility.
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