PCOS vs. Endometriosis: Differences Explained

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis are similar in multiple ways. For example, both affect the reproductive system and are linked to hormonal imbalances. They also share specific symptoms, like heavy menstrual bleeding.

However, PCOS and endometriosis also differ in many ways, including their causes and how doctors diagnose them. This article explains the two conditions and how they’re different.

Overviews of PCOS and Endometriosis

PCOS is associated with excess hormones called androgens. Both sexes have them, but they’re generally present in much higher amounts in men. Elevated androgen levels are one of the indicators that a woman has PCOS.

Endometriosis is associated with abnormally high levels of the female hormone estrogen. It’s a condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, such as on the ovaries, bowel or pelvic lining.

Symptom Differences in PCOS and Endometriosis

As mentioned above, the symptoms of PCOS and endometriosis overlap to a degree. Specifically, both conditions cause heavy periods, pelvic pain (primarily before periods in endometriosis), and difficulty getting pregnant.

However, many of their symptoms are unique, as shown in the table below:

Diagnosing PCOS and Endometriosis

If you have any of the symptoms above, your doctor can determine if you have either condition or another health issue.

There’s no definitive test for PCOS. Physicians diagnose it by performing various exams and tests, including a pelvic exam to check for masses or growths, blood tests to measure hormone levels and ultrasound scans to assess the thickness of the uterine lining and appearance of the ovaries.

Doctors often diagnose endometriosis based on a medical history, physical exam and imaging tests. However, they can confirm a diagnosis by performing laparoscopic surgery in which they use a small instrument to check the internal organs for endometrial tissue.

Talk With Your Baptist Health Doctor About PCOS or Endometriosis

If you experience symptoms that make you wonder if you have PCOS or endometriosis, it’s vital to talk with your doctor about them. Both conditions can worsen over time and cause complications, so the sooner you seek help, the better.

PCOS and endometriosis can also negatively impact your quality of life, which is another reason to get diagnosed and treated. People sometimes dismiss their symptoms as “just part of having a uterus and ovaries,” but these issues are not typical in a reproductive system that’s functioning correctly.

Medical attention is essential for both conditions, so you should contact your doctor. If you don't have a Baptist Health physician, you can find one in our online provider directory.