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PCOS and endometriosis are two of the most common reproductive disorders in women that are caused by hormonal imbalance and can lead to infertility, but both these conditions affect the female reproductive organs in different ways and it is important to understand the difference in their symptoms. is important. In endometriosis, tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus while PCOS is a hormonal disorder that causes enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges. PCOS primarily affects the ovaries and is associated with excess androgens, commonly considered male hormones. Endometriosis is linked to high levels of the female hormone estrogen. It can affect the ovaries, uterus, and other organs in the lower abdominal cavity, such as the bladder and intestines. (Also Read | Millets for PCOS: Amazing Benefits, How to Include in Diet and 2 Healthy Recipes)
Dr. Sriprada Vinekar, Senior Consultant, Minimally Invasive Gynecologist, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Malleshwaram, Bangalore, spoke in detail about both the disorders and explained the differences between their symptoms in an interview with HT Digital.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic ovary syndrome affects hormones and causes irregular menstruation, excess hair growth, acne and infertility. Women suffering from this have a higher risk of many disorders and diseases, including diabetes and high blood pressure. Women with PCOS may experience a variety of symptoms, which can vary in severity.
Some common symptoms include:
Irregular menstrual cycle: Women with PCOS may have irregular periods or even experience fewer menstrual cycles, making it difficult to predict ovulation and conceive.
Ovarian vesicle: PCOS is often associated with the presence of multiple small cysts on the ovaries. These cysts are not harmful but may contribute to hormonal imbalance.
Excess Androgen Production: Elevated levels of androgens can lead to symptoms such as acne, hirsutism (excessive hair growth on the face, chest, or back), and male-pattern baldness.
insulin resistance: Many women with PCOS also have insulin resistance, a condition in which the body’s cells do not respond effectively to insulin, leading to increased levels of insulin in the blood. Insulin resistance can contribute to weight gain, difficulty losing weight, and increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
weight gain: Women with PCOS are more likely to struggle with weight management, and excess weight can worsen symptoms of the condition.
endometriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic and often painful condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus, called endometrium, grows outside the uterus. This tissue can be found on other pelvic organs such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, outer surface of the uterus, and the lining of the pelvic cavity. During the menstrual cycle, this tissue reacts to hormonal changes by thickening, breaking down, and bleeding. However, because this tissue is located outside the uterus, there is no way for it to exit the body. This can lead to inflammation, formation of scar tissue, and adhesions (bands of fibrous tissue) between organs.
Endometriosis affects women primarily during their reproductive years, usually between the ages of 15 and 49. The exact cause of endometriosis is not fully understood, but several theories exist, including retrograde menstruation (where menstrual blood flows backward through the fallopian tubes into the pelvic cavity). ), immune system disorders, and genetic factors.
Common symptoms of endometriosis
pelvic pain: This is the most common symptom and can vary in intensity. This can happen before and during menstruation, during intercourse, during bowel movements or urination, or even during ovulation.
heavy menstrual bleeding: Women with endometriosis may experience heavier than normal periods, along with clots.
Painful intercourse: Pain during or after intercourse is common in women with endometriosis.
Infertility: Endometriosis can cause fertility problems, although not all women with endometriosis will experience infertility. Other symptoms may include fatigue, gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, bloating or nausea, especially during menstruation.
Difference Between PCOS and Endometriosis Symptoms
Both PCOS and endometriosis require medical evaluation and management by gynecologists. Treatment approaches may vary depending on the severity of symptoms, reproductive goals, and individual patient factors. It is essential for women experiencing symptoms of either condition to seek medical help for proper diagnosis and treatment. PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and endometriosis both are important issues related to women’s physical health.
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome): PCOS is characterized by hormonal imbalance that can cause irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), acne, and weight gain. Not all women with PCOS will develop ovarian cysts, but these cysts are common in some cases.
Endometriosis: Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, usually on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other pelvic organs. Its symptoms often include pelvic pain, especially during menstruation, heavy menstrual bleeding, painful intercourse, and infertility. Endometriosis can also cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as painful bowel movements or urinary symptoms.
diagnosis
PCOS: Diagnosis of PCOS typically involves a combination of physical examination, review of medical history, blood tests to measure hormone levels (such as testosterone, LH, FSH), pelvic ultrasound to check for ovarian cysts, and rule out other conditions. It happens.
Endometriosis: Diagnosing endometriosis often requires a laparoscopic surgical procedure, during which a surgeon inserts a tiny camera through a small incision near the navel to view the pelvic organs directly. However, diagnosis may begin with a review of a thorough medical history, a pelvic examination, and imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI.
Treatment
PCOS: Treatment of PCOS aims to manage symptoms and prevent complications. This often includes lifestyle changes such as weight management through diet and exercise, hormonal birth control to regulate the menstrual cycle, anti-androgen medications to manage symptoms such as hirsutism and acne, and, if necessary, fertility treatment.
Endometriosis: Treatment of endometriosis depends on the severity of symptoms and the woman’s reproductive goals. This includes pain management with over the counter or prescription medications, hormonal therapy (such as birth control pills, progestins, or GnRH agonists) to suppress menstruation and reduce endometrial growth, and especially endometrial implants or removal of scar tissue. May involve surgery (laparoscopy). In cases of severe pain or infertility.
While PCOS and endometriosis are both complex conditions affecting women’s reproductive health, they have different symptoms, diagnostic approaches, and treatment strategies.
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