Endometriosis and PCOS are both complicated, even debilitating, conditions that affect women. These conditions can cause pain and infertility, lead to other conditions, and cause emotional distress. If you feel that you may be suffering from one of these conditions, here are some talking points to bring up with your gynecologist. 

What are these conditions?

Endometriosis is a condition where the uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, such as on other parts of the pelvis and even on the bladder or gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms include painful periods, pain during intercourse, bowel movements and urination, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a disorder that causes enlarged ovaries that produce many follicles which can also impact the increased production of male hormones, insulin resistance, and reproduction. Symptoms can include irregular periods, adult acne, weight gain, hair loss or abnormal hair growth.  Both can contribute to infertility. 

Can you have both?   

Yes, having both is possible. Although exact causes are still being debated in the medical community, the underlying causes that both conditions seem to possess are inflammation and hormonal imbalances. Both inflammation and hormonal imbalances can lead to problems if not addressed. Women with both conditions typically experience irregular periods accompanied by strange hair growth and chronic pelvic pain. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should present them to a gynecologist right away. 

What are treatment options?

Although easier said than done with these conditions—especially PCOS, as it affects blood sugar levels—it is best to maintain a healthy weight with proper diet and exercise. Your gynecologist can help you come up with the best diet and exercise regimen for your needs or refer you to someone, like a nutritionist, who can. Hormonal birth control is also a good option for many who suffer from endometriosis and PCOS. Some patients may also benefit from pelvic floor physical therapy. 

For over 30 years, Dr. Joseph Hazan and the team at Advanced OB-GYN Services in St. Peters, MO have been providing compassionate, personalized care for women. With two locations, Dr. Hazan and his team provide cutting-edge services with low wait times and convenient hours. To learn more about services or to schedule an appointment, visit the website or call (636) 928-1800 for the St. Peters office or (314) 291-2140 for the Bridgeton office today.