PCOS and Fibroids: A Tale of Two Hormonal Conditions

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and fibroids are two conditions that impact millions of women across the U.S. Although these conditions are not deadly, they can significantly impact a woman’s health. Keep reading as we unravel the common threads and unique differences with these conditions. 

The Main Differences

1. Disease prevalence. PCOS is the most common hormonal disorder among younger women of reproductive age affecting up to 10% of women. ¹ Whereas fibroids are estimated to impact nearly up to 80% of in a lifetime. ²
   
2. The presentation of disease is not the same. Many women with PCOS have cysts on their ovaries. However, it is important to note that the presence of ovarian cysts alone does not determine PCOS diagnosis. Women with PCOS may experience irregular or absent menstrual periods, along with symptoms such as excessive body hair growth and changes in acne patterns. Fibroids are benign tumors that appear in the uterus. Many women with these tumors are asymptomatic. However pelvic pressure, heavy and painful periods, bloating, and pain after intercourse are some symptoms of fibroids.
   
3. The causes of symptoms vary. Black women were found to have more depressive episodes compared to White women, which may be influenced by the fact that black women are less likely to be treated for their mental health conditions. 
   
4. Differences in complications. Women with PCOS may be at increased risk of infertility as a result of irregular periods. Furthermore, women with PCOS are at increased risk of insulin resistance, a condition where your body cannot properly use the insulin hormone to regulate blood sugar. This increases risk for Type II diabetes. In terms of fibroids, severe complications are unlikely, however infertility and miscarriage may be a resulting consequence similar to PCOS.

There can be many causes of period abnormalities.  Trust Women’s Healthcare we can ensure the proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs. Schedule an appointment with us to manage any of your reproductive health concerns.

1. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. (2022, January 24). https://www.endocrine.org/patient-engagement/endocrine-library/pcos
2. Uterine fibroids | Office on Women’s Health. (2021, February 19). Retrieved September 2, 2024, from https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/uterine-fibroids
3. Bromberger JT, Kravitz HM, Matthews K, Youk A, Brown C, Feng W. Predictors of first lifetime episodes of major depression in midlife women. Psychol Med. 2009;39(1):55–64.
4. Hall MH, Matthews KA, Kravitz HM, Gold EB, Buysse DJ, Bromberger JT, Owens JF, Sowers M. Race and financial strain are independent correlates of sleep in midlife women: the SWAN sleep study. Sleep. 2009;32(1):73–82.