Know More About PCOS & Endometriosis!

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and Endometriosis are common gynecological disorders. According to recent estimates, 5-10% of women are affected by these disorders. Teenage girls and childbearing women are more prone to these problems. Recently, various celebrities shared their thoughts about PCOS and Endometriosis publicly.

The actress of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Daisy Ridley, shared her story about PCOS on Instagram. She wrote that she tried everything to treat her acne before knowing that the culprit was PCOS. Lena Dunham, Tia Mowry-Hardrict, and Padma Lakshmi have also shared their stories of dealing with Endometriosis and how this problem affected their health. Though the symptoms and the affected part of the PCOS and Endometriosis are different, both the problems mess with the menstrual cycle and cause fertility issues. Both conditions are painful and uncomfortable for women, but they are difficult to detect. 

According to a study published in the Journal of Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Disorders in 2014, women dealing with pain and fertility issues from PCOS are more compared to women having Endometriosis.

What is PCOS?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, PCOS occurs when the adrenal glands or ovaries of a woman produce more male hormones (androgens) than normal. In this condition, ovaries produce several small collections of follicles and are not able to develop eggs. It is generally caused due to hormonal imbalance. Women suffering from PCOS have prolonged and infrequent periods.

Symptoms of PCOS -

● Irregular menstrual cycles
● Excessive hair growth around the chin, abdomen, sides of the face, etc.
● Weight gain
● Oily skin and acne problems
● Fertility issues

Endometriosis -

In this condition, the endometrial tissues are lined outside of the uterus instead of inside. The tissues of the uterus lining also grow in other body parts like bowel, bladder, rectum,
ovaries, and pelvic area. 

Symptoms of Endometriosis -

● Painful and prolonged periods
● Abdominal cramps for one or two weeks before and during the menstrual cycle
● Lower abdomen pain before and during periods
● Pain during or after sexual intercourse
● Pain around the lower back or pelvic area at any time during periods
● Pain during bowel movements

Diagnosis and Treatment of PCOS and Endometriosis -

It is always advisable to observe any problematic signs before, during, and after menstruation. This will help the gynecologist to understand whether you are suffering from PCOS or Endometriosis. A gynecologist may also advise her to go for a pelvic exam, physical examination, blood tests, and ultrasound. The treatment will depend on the diagnostic tests, symptoms, age, and severity of the condition. It may include medication to balance the hormones and control the pain. In rare and severe cases, surgery may also be recommended.

Take Away -

Though the condition seems to be similar as both affect the menstrual cycle, both are treated differently. This is why it is advisable to consult a gynecologist before going for any treatment.