PCOS and endometriosis are two of the leading causes of infertility in women. These conditions are often confused with each other despite having very stark differences in symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. In this guide to PCOS vs. endometriosis, we explain what PCOS and infertility actually are, how they are diagnosed and treated, and the key differences between the two.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue that is similar to the uterine lining grows in other parts of your body, outside the uterine cavity. During your period, this tissue also acts like the uterine lining and begins to thicken and ‘shed’. It can cause pain and inflammation around the affected areas. The tissue can build up and cause cysts and sometimes even make multiple organs stick together.
Endometriosis is associated with high levels of estradiol, which is a type of estrogen that is responsible for tissue growth in the uterus. It usually affects parts of the reproductive system, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissues surrounding the uterus. Very rarely, it can affect areas like the intestines, rectum, appendix, lungs, and diaphragm.
Some of the most common symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Painful periods
- Heavy menstrual pain
- Infertility
- Pain in the pelvic area or lower back
Endometriosis: Diagnosis and Treatment
If you experience any of the symptoms of endometriosis, speak to one of the top doctors for endometriosis treatment in Chandigarh . Mention if you have a family history or other risk factors for endometriosis. Diagnosis will usually require a pelvic ultrasound, MRI, or laparoscopy to confirm the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity.
While endometriosis tends to be a long-term condition, the symptoms can usually be managed well. With proper treatment, most women find real relief and can lead normal, healthy lives.
Treatment options include:
- Birth control pills (if you aren’t trying to conceive)
- Pain relief medication
- Medication to lower estrogen production
- Lifestyle changes like exercising, eating healthy, and cutting out smoking
- Surgical removal of tissue through a laparoscopy
Also read: Pregnancy with Endometriosis
What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
PCOS is a condition that is associated with a higher level of male hormones (androgens) in the body, which causes hormonal imbalances and interferes with ovulation and menstruation.
In normal menstrual cycles, the ovaries release mature eggs during ovulation. Women with PCOS do not have enough hormones to ovulate and produce mature eggs. This results in immature eggs getting trapped inside the ovaries and turning into small fluid-filled sacs called cysts.
The most common symptoms of PCOS include:
- Irregular periods or missed periods
- Stubborn acne and oily skin
- Excess face and body hair (hirsutism)
- Rapid weight gain, especially around the belly
- Difficulty losing weight
- Thinning hair and male pattern hair fall
- Infertility
- Dark, velvety patches of skin on the neck, groin, or armpits (acanthosis nigricans)
PCOS: Diagnosis and Treatment
There isn’t a single specific test for diagnosing PCOS. To get diagnosed, speak to your general physician or gynecologist about the symptoms you’re experiencing.
Your doctor will likely order blood tests and ultrasound scans to check your hormone levels, insulin levels, and whether you have cysts on your ovaries.
PCOS must be managed through medical treatment and lifestyle changes. Treatment includes:
- Medication to induce ovulation (if you are trying to conceive)
- Hormonal birth control
- Acne or hair loss medication
- Insulin-sensitizing agents
- Lifestyle changes like improved diet and regular exercise
Not all cysts are harmful. However, if you have cysts that are causing pain or infertility, they can be removed surgically through a process called laparoscopic ovarian drilling.
Also read: PCOS and Pregnancy
The Key Differences: PCOS vs. Endometriosis
| Factors | PCOS | Endometriosis |
| Location | Ovaries | Outside the uterine cavity |
| Effect on menstruation | Irregular or missed periods | Painful, long, or heavy periods |
| Symptoms | Causes physically visible symptoms like unwanted hair growth, hair loss, acne, and | Does not cause any visible symptoms |
| Diagnostic tools | Blood tests, ultrasound scans | MRIs, ultrasound scans, or laparoscopic surgery |
| If left untreated | Can cause insulin resistance, high blood pressure, Type 2 Diabetes, and uterine cancer | Can cause severe chronic pain, infertility, damage to internal organs, cysts, and adhesions |
Managing Endometriosis and PCOS
PCOS and endometriosis can be difficult to live with. If you suspect that you have one of these conditions, get in touch with a specialist as soon as possible. Receiving a diagnosis early on can make managing symptoms much easier and prevent side effects from worsening. Both these conditions can have serious consequences if left untreated.
Is PCOS or endometriosis making it harder for you to get pregnant? Book a consultation at a Bloom IVF Clinic near you for affordable diagnosis and treatment options.