Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Fibroids are two conditions that affect the female reproductive system.
They both cause irregular, non-cancerous growths in the reproductive system.
Both these conditions have the ability to cause pelvic pain, affect fertility, and disrupt periods. Both of them have also been linked to hormonal imbalances.
It is easy to confuse PCOS and Fibroids as both conditions appear to be the same, cause similar health issues, and have similar causes.
However, Fibroids and PCOS are two different conditions, and this article will discuss their differences in detail.
The Difference Between PCOS and Fibroids
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome occurs when the ovaries produce higher-than-normal amounts of Androgens.
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or around the uterus. They are the most common kind of non-cancerous tumors in women of reproductive age.
While these conditions appear to be the same, they do have some differences. Let us discuss these differences in detail.
Causes
High levels of the female hormone estrogen are known to be associated with an elevated risk of Fibroids. On the other hand, high levels of male hormones, like Testosterone, may cause PCOS.
Other factors that may play a role in causing fibroids or PCOS include genetics and nutrient deficiencies like vitamin D.
Want to learn more about how to lower Testosterone and manage PCOS? Read How to Lower Testosterone PCOS.
Symptoms
Source: elenavagengeimThe symptoms of PCOS may include hair loss, Hirsutism, irregular periods, acne, and weight gain.
Whereas Fibroid symptoms may include bloating of the lower belly, heavy bleeding or painful periods, and lower back pain.
Risk Factors
Fibroids are more likely to occur in people with high blood pressure, family history of Fibroids, no history of pregnancy, and Obesity.
Factors like poor lifestyle habits, insulin resistance, and family history of PCOS can raise the risk of PCOS.
Treatment
Source: Signature_imageThe treatment of both Fibroids and PCOS can include medications like birth controls that restore hormonal balance.
Surgical and non-surgical options like embolization may also be considered depending on the severity of the condition.
While PCOS treatment generally involves lifestyle changes like workouts and diet. Medications like Metformin are first-choice treatments for PCOS.
To learn more about medications that can treat PCOS effectively, read PCOS Medication: Understanding Treatment Options.
Can You Have Fibroids and PCOS at the Same Time?
Yes, it is possible to have PCOS and Fibroids at the same time. You should remember that if a person receives a diagnosis for one condition, it does not mean they have both conditions.
PCOS generally occurs in women between the ages of 20 and 30, while Fibroids are most common in women in their 30s and 40s.
Takeaway
PCOS and Fibroids are two common conditions that affect the female reproductive system. While Fibroids cause non-cancerous growth in and around the uterus, PCOS may cause non-cancerous growth on one or both ovaries.
They can both disrupt periods, cause pelvic pain, and affect fertility. These conditions appear similar but have different causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatments.
High estrogen levels usually trigger Fibroids, while high Testosterone levels may trigger PCOS.
While PCOS can cause symptoms like irregular periods, Fibroids may cause painful and heavy periods.
Both conditions can be generally treated with birth control pills, but other medications like Metformin are especially effective for PCOS.
A person can have one or both of these conditions at a time, and it is essential to seek medical treatment to manage the condition effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can PCOS be cured?
No, PCOS is a chronic condition and cannot be cured, but symptoms can be managed with appropriate medical care and lifestyle changes.
Do Fibroids always cause symptoms?
No, some women with Fibroids may not experience any symptoms, and the condition is often discovered during a routine pelvic exam or prenatal ultrasound.
Can PCOS lead to Diabetes?
PCOS is associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 Diabetes, particularly in women with insulin resistance.
Can Fibroids cause pain during intercourse?
Yes, Fibroids can cause pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse, depending on their size and location.
Can PCOS affect mental health?
Yes, women with PCOS may be at a higher risk of mood disorders such as Depression and Anxiety.
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