Reproductive Health: PCOS & Endometriosis

Written By: Laila Ibrahim and Eshrat Quader

For decades, women’s reproductive health has been overlooked. Millions of women, worldwide, suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 70% of women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome are undiagnosed. The first step to address this issue is to make sure women’s health receives an adequate amount of attention. PCOS and Endometriosis are conditions that can cause infertility and hormonal imbalances, however, they affect different parts of the reproductive system. PCOS affects the ovaries, while endometriosis affects the uterus, bladders, lower intestines, as well as the ovaries. Both of these conditions are extremely serious, and though it may not seem that it affects that many individuals, a lot of symptoms are ignored, due to the lack of awareness and education surrounding them. 
 

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), is a hormonal issue that affects an individual during their ‘reproductive years’. It often results in irregular or prolonged menstrual cycles. PCOS may lead to an influx of androgen in the body, a hormone that causes an excessive amount of body and facial hair. The cysts that appear along the ovaries (referring to the name), fail to release eggs regularly, leading to irregular menstruation (Mayo Clinic - Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). Symptoms of PCOS can begin around the time of an individual's first period, however, it may start later for others. Symptoms include, atypical menstruation, hirsutism, and large ovaries. Two of these symptoms are usually an indicator of PCOS, and it’s important to see a doctor.

Similarly to polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis also causes hormonal imbalances, and issues in the reproductive system. However, endometriosis affects the uterus, becoming one of the main causes in pelvic pain in women (PCOS vs. Endometriosis: What Are the Differences? - Mirabito). When an individual is affected by endometriosis, a tissue similar to the lining of their uterus starts to grow outside the uterus. This impacts the fallopian tubes, tissue surrounding the pelvis, and the ovaries (Mayo Clinic - Endometriosis). Endometriosis causes pelvic pain, as well as fertility issues. Symptoms include: lasting pain during menstruation, painful bowel movements or urination, excessive bleeding, and infertility (Mayo Clinic - Endometriosis). It’s important to note that some symptoms can be indicative of other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), pelvic inflammatory disease, or ovarian cysts (Mayo Clinic - Endometriosis). Whatever the case may be, if an individual suspects that they may be affected by endometriosis, it’s important to see a doctor. 

These conditions are two of many that can affect women, or individuals with female organs. And unfortunately, the reproductive health of women has been decreasingly prioritized in comparison to other conditions. Whether it’s PCOS, endometriosis, fibroids, or HPV, women’s health should not be overlooked. Anyone who suspects they may be affected by PCOS or endometriosis should seek the help they need and deserve. Health should be prioritized regardless of gender, or sex, patients should not be dismissed. 

References: 

“What Are the Differences between PCOS and Endometriosis?” Verywell Health, www.verywellhealth.com/endometriosis-and-pcos-5295536.

Mayo Clinic. “Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, 8 Sept. 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pcos/symptoms-causes/syc-20353439.

Mayo Clinic. “Endometriosis.” Mayo Clinic, 30 Aug. 2024, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354656.

“How Many Women Have Endometriosis? Early Symptoms, Risk, and More.” Healthline, 3 July 2023, www.healthline.com/health/how-many-women-have-endometriosis.