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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and uterine fibroids are two conditions that can impact a woman’s ability to have children and cause significant issues in her daily life. 

Both can impact a woman’s menstrual cycle and fertility. Understanding the connection between these two conditions can help women better manage their health and well-being.

Seeing an interventional radiologist (IR) for an accurate diagnosis is important because these specialists can use advanced imaging techniques like ultrasound and MRI to accurately diagnose both conditions, even when symptoms are similar.

Let’s examine the complexities and similarities of PCOS and fibroids, exploring their symptoms, causes, and potential treatments.

What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?

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PCOS impacts approximately one in ten women globally and is characterized by irregular or absent menstrual cycles and infertility challenges.   PCOS is a complex hormonal disorder that affects a woman’s reproductive system, metabolism, and mental well-being. Similar to fibroids, PCOS is often overlooked and remains a frequently underdiagnosed condition.  

One major obstacle to early diagnosis is the wide range of symptoms, or “phenotypes” associated with PCOS. These can include ovarian cysts, abnormal ovarian function, and excess male hormones (androgens). This variability can make it difficult for healthcare providers to accurately distinguish, identify, and treat the condition promptly.

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Causes and Risk Factors for PCOS

Several factors increase the risk for PCOS. A significant weight gain may increase the risk of developing PCOS. A doctor may diagnose a patient with PCOS if they have two of the following signs:

  • Irregular periods
  • Cysts on the ovaries
  • High levels of androgens (male hormones found in small amounts in women)

Women who produce excessive insulin which can raise their blood sugar levels, or have elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) are at a higher risk of experiencing this condition.

Research indicates that genetics may link to PCOS, while a low-grade inflammation may cause ovaries to produce more androgens. High levels of androgens can cause acne and hirsutism excessive hair growth in a male-like pattern on unexpected areas of the body, such as the face, chest, and back.

What are Fibroids?

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop within the uterus and can continue to grow to the size of an orange or even larger. Small fibroids may not cause any symptoms and may not get diagnosed until they are large enough to cause pain. There is no single cause for the development of these fibroids, though risk factors include age and genetics.

Does PCOS Cause Uterine Fibroids?

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PCOS and uterine fibroids are two separate conditions that aren’t directly related. They may have some similarities in symptoms, and it is possible to be misdiagnosed with one when the patient has the other condition. 

However, they occur in two different areas of the body. PCOS affects just the ovaries, and uterine fibroids impact the uterus. While there’s no definitive link between the two conditions,  the hormonal imbalance associated with PCOS may contribute to fibroid growth. 

Fibroids’ growth is often linked to elevated levels of estrogen. Women with PCOS frequently exhibit a condition known as “estrogen dominance,” where estrogen levels are disproportionately high compared to progesterone. This hormonal imbalance may play a role in stimulating the growth of uterine fibroids.

Can You Have PCOS and Fibroids at the Same Time?

It’s possible to have both PCOS and fibroids simultaneously, but having one diagnosis doesn’t indicate that you have the other condition. PCOS is most common in women in their 20s and 30s, while fibroids are most common in women in their 30s and 40s.

According to the NIH, in a study of African-American women, women with PCOS are 65% more likely than other women to develop uterine fibroids over time.

Because some of the risk factors are similar, it can lead to developing either condition or both. Several factors increase the risk of developing PCOS or fibroids:

  • Family history of PCOS
  • Obesity
  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol

Even with these similarities between PCOS and fibroids, there are still some significant differences between the two conditions. If you notice significant changes in your menstrual cycle, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

The Difference Between PCOS and Fibroids

PCOS vs. Fibroids

 

PCOS and uterine fibroids are both conditions that can affect the uterus, but they have different causes, locations, and appearances. PCOS is a hormonal disorder that causes cysts to form on the ovaries. These cysts are typically small and fluid-filled. 

Uterine fibroids, on the other hand, are non-cancerous growths that develop in the muscle wall of the uterus. They can vary in size and number and may appear as smooth, rubbery masses. While both PCOS and fibroids are non-cancerous, they can cause pain and other symptoms that impact your ability to manage normal routines.

Fibroids and PCOS Symptoms

Since there are similarities between fibroid and PCOS symptoms, you can’t self-diagnose whether you have PCOS or. fibroids. That’s why it is crucial to track all of your symptoms.

Fibroid Symptoms

Symptom Checker

Symptom checkers can be a valuable tool for:

  • Initial self-assessment: They can help you identify potential health conditions based on your symptoms.
  • Information gathering: They can provide general information about various diseases and conditions.
  • Decision-making: They can help you decide whether to seek medical attention.

Our symptom checker can help you determine if your symptoms might be related to uterine fibroids or PCOS.

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Impact on Fertility

PCOS and uterine fibroids can negatively impact fertility but in different ways. PCOS disrupts the body’s hormones, stopping the ovaries from releasing eggs. Even if an egg gets fertilized, it might be hard for it to stick to the uterus lining.

On the other hand, uterine fibroids can affect fertility by blocking the fallopian tubes, preventing eggs from reaching the uterus. They can also grow during pregnancy and make it hard for the baby to develop.

Every woman’s experience with uterine fibroids and infertility or PCOS and infertility varies. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. As women navigate this journey, it is important to talk to the doctor about their specific situation and explore different treatment options available. .

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PCOS Treatment Options

Both (PCOS and uterine fibroids require a medical diagnosis. 

PCOS is often diagnosed through a combination of a pelvic exam, blood tests to measure hormone levels, and an ultrasound to assess the ovaries and uterus.

Treatment for PCOS typically involves lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthier diet, and medications to regulate hormones. 

An Interventional Radiologist can also perform laparoscopic ovarian drilling (LOD), which applies heat or laser to the ovaries using a camera (laparoscope) through a small incision. This procedure helps improve the chance of ovulation.

Fibroid Treatment

Fibroids are often diagnosed through a combination of a pelvic exam, an ultrasound, or an MRI  to assess the location, size and number of tumors.

The best treatment for uterine fibroids depends on several factors, including the size, location, and number of fibroids, as well as the severity of symptoms and the option to preserve fertility.

Based on the individual condition, fibroid treatments can include non-surgical options such as hormone therapy and uterine fibroid embolization and more invasive, surgical options like hysterectomy and myomectomy.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure that has garnered significant attention for its ability to treat fibroids while preserving fertility. As reported by the National Institutes of Health, UFE’s high success rate makes it a promising option for women seeking relief from fibroid symptoms without the need for traditional surgery.

How UFE Works

During UFE, tiny particles are injected into the uterine artery, blocking the blood supply to the fibroids. This causes the fibroids to shrink and eventually disappear with no hospital stay. Importantly, UFE leaves the uterus intact, allowing for potential future pregnancies.

This procedure offers several other benefits over traditional surgical treatments:

  • Less Invasive: Unlike surgery, UFE does not require cutting or removing any part of the uterus. This means less pain, a shorter recovery time, and a lower risk of complications.
  • Quick Recovery: Patients typically return home the same day or the next day after the procedure. They can often resume normal activities within a few weeks.
  • Preserves Fertility: UFE does not affect fertility, making it a suitable option for women who wish to have children in the future.
  • Reduces Symptoms: UFE effectively reduces or eliminates the symptoms associated with uterine fibroids, such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, an enlarged uterus, lower back pain and pressure.
  • Low Risk of Complications: UFE is generally a safe procedure with a low risk of serious complications. 

Health Complications of Leaving PCOS and Fibroids Untreated

PCOS: If you’re still unclear about PCOS and its potential consequences, it’s important to know that early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious health complications. Left untreated, PCOS can lead to:

  • Fertility complications
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High cholesterol
  • Sleep apnea
  • Endometrial cancer

Fibroids: One of the main consequences of leaving fibroids untreated is iron-deficiency anemia. Blood loss is the most common cause of anemia, as iron in red blood cells can often become depleted, causing fatigue and other serious health concerns. Other than anemia and complications with fertility and conception, leaving uterine fibroids untreated can cause symptoms like:

Request a Fibroid Diagnosis and Treatment Consultation at USA Fibroid Centers

Find relief from uterine fibroids at USA Fibroid Centers. We offer UFE, a minimally invasive, FDA-approved treatment that effectively shrinks and reduces the symptoms of uterine fibroids. Unlike invasive surgeries like hysterectomy or myomectomy, UFE provides a faster recovery time and minimal impact on your body. Our interventional radiologists will discuss your symptoms and answer questions about fibroid treatments, and explain the UFE procedure.

Schedule a consultation today to learn how UFE can help you feel better. Call us at 855.615.2555 or schedule online.

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1Girls Health.gov. April 24, 2018. What is PCOS? Retrieved from https://www.girlshealth.gov/body/reproductive/pcos.html#causes

 2What is PCOS? April 24, 2018. Girlshealth.gov https://www.girlshealth.gov/body/reproductive/pcos.html#causes