Distinguishing Endometriosis from PCOS: A Guide on Detection
In the realm of women's health, two conditions that frequently capture attention are endometriosis and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Both conditions can significantly impact a woman's life, particularly in terms of reproductive health.
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue that resembles the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterine cavity. The most common causes of endometriosis are not fully understood, but the main theories include retrograde menstruation, immune system dysfunction, transformation of peritoneal cells, genetic factors, transport of endometrial cells via blood vessels or lymphatic system, and surgical scar implantation [1][2][3][5]. Risk factors include early onset of menstruation, later menopause, short or heavy menstrual cycles, never having given birth, and a family history of endometriosis [1][2][3].
Symptoms of endometriosis include painful periods, heavy bleeding, lower back pain during periods, painful bowel movements, difficulty getting pregnant, painful urination, pain during sex, pelvic pain, digestive issues, intestinal pain, and risk of infertility [1]. A pelvic exam can be used to feel for cysts or scars behind the uterus in the diagnosis of endometriosis [2].
PCOS, on the other hand, is a condition that affects a female's hormone levels, causing higher levels of androgens. For PCOS, the causes are also not fully defined but appear to involve genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, low-grade inflammation, and possible in utero exposure to high androgen levels [2][4].
A person with PCOS may display symptoms such as irregular or infrequent periods, high levels of androgens, and multiple cysts on one or both ovaries. A blood test can be used to determine if a person has high levels of androgens and to check hormones associated with an underactive thyroid in the diagnosis of PCOS [1]. A pelvic exam for PCOS may detect signs of high levels of male hormones, including an enlarged clitoris [2].
If a person with PCOS is struggling to get pregnant, a doctor may recommend in vitro fertilization (IVF) [1]. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe hormonal birth control as a diagnostic tool for endometriosis if no cysts are noticed [2]. Laparoscopy surgery may be recommended for people with endometriosis to improve fertility [1].
Both conditions can have far-reaching effects on a woman's health. Endometriosis affects at least one in ten females of reproductive age in the United States [1][2][3]. PCOS affects as many as one in ten females of reproductive age in the United States [1][2][3]. It's essential for women to be aware of the signs and risks associated with these conditions and to seek medical advice if they suspect they may be affected.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Endometriosis. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20356637
[2] Office on Women's Health. (2021). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/polycystic-ovary-syndrome
[3] American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2021). Endometriosis. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/endometriosis
[4] NIH - National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2021). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Fact Sheet. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/women/puberty-childhood-development/pcos
[5] American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2021). Endometriosis. https://www.asrm.org/patients/resources-for-patients/endometriosis/
- Endometriosis, a condition known to resemble the lining of the uterus growing outside of the uterine cavity, can significantly impact a woman's life, particularly in terms of reproductive health.
- Risk factors for endometriosis include early onset of menstruation, never having given birth, and a family history of endometriosis.
- Symptoms of endometriosis can include painful periods, heavy bleeding, pain during sex, and the risk of infertility, while a pelvic exam can help in its diagnosis.
- PCOS, a condition that affects a female's hormone levels, causing higher levels of androgens, can also impact reproductive health and has symptoms such as irregular or infrequent periods and high levels of male hormones, which a pelvic exam can help detect.
- It's crucial for women to be aware of the signs and risks associated with endometriosis and PCOS, two common medical conditions in women's health, as they can have far-reaching effects on a woman's health and fertility.
