These two gynaecological conditions are probably the ones you’ve heard of the most.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis are completely different illnesses, although endometriosis is slightly more common.
In short, PCOS is caused because of excessive androgen hormones, while endometriosis
develops because of excessive estrogen hormones. It is not rare to have either one of these
conditions and it is even possible to have both.
PCOS is a condition caused by an imbalance of reproductive hormones which results in the
egg cells not developing properly and oftentimes preventing them to be released during
ovulation. Therefore causing cysts to appear in ovaries.
Some of the most common symptoms that indicate PCOS are:
- Irregular periods
- Excessive hair growth
- Severe hormonal acne
- Patches of thick, darkened skin
Endometriosis, on the other hand, is a disorder in which tissue similar to the tissue that
normally lines the inside of your uterus — the endometrium — grows outside your uterus.
Endometriosis most commonly involves your ovaries, fallopian tubes and the tissue lining
your pelvis.
Although many women with endometriosis don’t show symptoms at all, some of the most
common symptoms are:
- Chronic pelvic pain, especially before or after a period
- Pain during sex
- Pain when you defecate
- Pain when you urinate
- Heavy flow during the period
If you have endometriosis, you will experience chronic pelvic pain that is nothing like
typical period pain as well as heavy bleeding, while PCOS would make you have severe
irregular bleeding.
To get a clue on what is happening in your reproduction organ, you’d need ultrasounds as a
tool to correctly diagnose the condition. Furthermore, you would also need a blood test to
check your testosterone levels if you think you have PCOS and you’ll need to go through a
surgical procedure called laparoscopy to check whether or not you have endometriosis.
During irregular bleeding due to PCOS, or when you’re in major discomfort and having heavy bleeding period because of endometriosis, you should put on the most comfortable period product. It is important to minimise the hassle and make your body feel as relaxed as possible. Try MOOVE period underwear to make your life that little bit easier!
