What is the Difference Between PCOS and Endometriosis?

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and endometriosis are both chronic conditions that affect women of reproductive age, but they have distinct differences in their causes and symptoms.

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects a female's hormone levels, causing higher levels of "male hormones" known as androgens. Common symptoms of PCOS include:

• Infrequent or irregular menstrual cycles
• Elevated androgen levels, which can cause acne and excess facial or body hair growth
• Insulin resistance, which increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes

Endometriosis, on the other hand, is a condition where tissue resembling the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterine cavity, such as on the ovaries, bowel, or the tissues lining the pelvis. Some unique symptoms of endometriosis include:

• Painful periods
• Lower back pain during periods
• Painful bowel movements
• Painful urination

Both conditions share some similar symptoms, such as heavy bleeding and difficulty getting pregnant. However, the causes of these conditions are different. PCOS is caused by a problem with hormones, while endometriosis is caused by abnormal cell growth outside the uterus. It is possible for a woman to have both PCOS and endometriosis, as they are separate diagnoses.

Comparative Table: PCOS vs Endometriosis

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and endometriosis are both chronic conditions that affect women of childbearing age, but they have distinct differences in their causes, symptoms, and treatments. Here is a table comparing the differences between PCOS and endometriosis:

It is possible for a woman to have both PCOS and endometriosis simultaneously, although it is not very common. Proper diagnosis and treatment require understanding the differences between these two conditions.