You’ve probably heard about Polycystic Ovaries or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and might assume they’re the same thing. However, while the terms sound alike, they actually describe different conditions that have distinct implications for reproductive health. In this blog, we’ll dive into the differences between the two and help you better understand their diagnoses.
What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a hormonal condition that affects between 8% and 13% of women of reproductive age. It’s known that women with a family history of PCOS or type 2 diabetes are at higher risk of developing it. According to the World Health Organization, 70% of women with PCOS remain undiagnosed.
The symptoms of PCOS can include:
- Hormonal imbalances
- Irregular, prolonged, or absent periods
- Excess androgen levels
- Ovarian cysts
Additionally, women may experience acne or oily skin, excessive hair growth on the face or body, and weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.
What are Polycystic Ovaries?
Polycystic ovaries refer to ovaries that are larger than normal and contain more follicles than expected in a woman at rest.
This condition typically affects young women without noticeable symptoms. However, in some cases, it can cause painful ovulatory cycles or irregular periods, which can lead to confusion with other conditions.
How Do These Conditions Affect Fertility?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is one of the leading causes of infertility, as the hormonal imbalance disrupts ovulation, a key factor in conception. Without ovulation, natural pregnancy is impossible, and assisted reproductive treatments may be necessary.
Polycystic ovaries, on the other hand, usually don’t cause severe fertility issues. Although they can lead to irregular ovulation, they typically don’t prevent it entirely.
Diagnosis and Treatment
PCOS is diagnosed based on symptoms and blood tests that confirm hormonal changes. While there is no cure for PCOS, symptoms can be managed with a healthy lifestyle and medications that regulate the menstrual cycle and hormone levels.
Polycystic ovaries can be detected during routine annual check-ups via ultrasound and typically don’t require treatment. If irregular periods occur, ovulation can usually be stimulated with minor interventions.
Key Differences Between PCOS and Polycystic Ovaries:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):
- Symptoms: Irregular periods, hormonal imbalance, ovarian cysts, acne
- Hormonal Imbalance: Elevated androgen levels
- Fertility: Makes conception difficult due to lack of ovulation
- Treatment: There is currently no cure, but can be managed with medications, lifestyle changes, and assisted reproductive treatments
Polycystic Ovaries:
- Symptoms: Often asymptomatic
- Hormonal Imbalance: Not necessarily present
- Fertility: Usually does not affect fertility
- Treatment: No treatment needed. If periods are irregular, ovulation can be stimulated
Understanding Your Fertility is Your Right
At Nascere, we believe that the more you know about your body, the better equipped you are to seek help when needed. That’s why, both in our consultations and across our platforms, we aim to provide you with the information you’re looking for. If you’d like to learn more about this topic, share your thoughts with us on social media or book an appointment with us.