PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and Endometriosis are two different conditions, but many women can have both at the same time.
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that causes irregular periods, cysts on ovaries, and symptoms like weight gain, acne, hirsutism, and hair loss. On the other hand, Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus that causes pain during or after sex, heavy periods, painful urination during periods, and likely fertility issues.
PCOS affects an estimated 8–13% of women of reproductive age globally. Endometriosis affects approximately 10% (190 million) of reproductive-age women and girls worldwide & 30–40% of women with endometriosis experience infertility.
A study found that about 7% of women diagnosed with PCOS also had mild endometriosis.
Can You Have PCOS and Endometriosis Together?
Yes, it’s possible! Even though they have different causes, some women can experience both conditions. Let’s discuss the overlapping symptoms.
Symptom | PCOS | Endometriosis |
---|---|---|
Irregular periods | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Heavy periods | ❌ Less common | ✅ Common |
Pelvic pain | ❌ Rare | ✅ Severe pain |
Weight gain | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Excess hair growth | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Fertility issues | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Must Read: What to Eat & How to Lose Weight with PCOS and Endometriosis?

Diagnosis Challenges of PCOS & Endometriosis:
Diagnosis of PCOS and endometriosis together can be tricky because their symptoms overlap, and doctors often focus on just one condition.
PCOS is often linked to high androgen (male hormone) levels, insulin resistance, and irregular ovulation. Blood tests can help confirm this.
Endometriosis, however, does not have a specific blood test, so if a woman has normal hormone levels, doctors may assume she doesn’t have PCOS while missing the possibility of endometriosis.
Gynecologists and endocrinologists tend to focus on either hormonal imbalances (PCOS) or structural issues (endometriosis), not both. If a woman is overweight with irregular periods, doctors may diagnose only PCOS and ignore signs of endometriosis-related pain.
If a woman has painful periods but no classic PCOS symptoms, she may only be tested for endometriosis, missing a PCOS diagnosis. Many doctors are not trained to recognize both conditions together.
Since PCOS is more commonly diagnosed, endometriosis is often overlooked, especially if there are no visible cysts or abnormalities in scans. Endometriosis usually requires laparoscopic surgery for confirmation which leads to delays of 5-10 years before a proper diagnosis.
Many doctors might treat period irregularities with birth control pills without investigating further.
People Also Ask:
Is it possible to have PCOS and endometriosis at the same time?
Yes, it is possible to have PCOS & endometriosis at the same time. Even though they have different causes.
What’s more painful endometriosis or PCOS?
Endometriosis is generally more painful than PCOS. It causes chronic pelvic pain, severe menstrual cramps, and pain during intercourse due to tissue growing outside the uterus. PCOS, on the other hand, usually involves mild or no pain, though some women may experience discomfort from ovarian cysts.
Can I have a baby if I have endometriosis and PCOS?
Yes, it is possible to conceive if you have both Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis, though these conditions can make it more challenging. PCOS can cause irregular ovulation, while endometriosis may cause pelvic adhesions, both affect fertility. However, many women with these conditions have successfully become pregnant.
Can Endometriosis cause weight loss?
Yes, endometriosis can lead to weight loss in some individuals. The chronic pelvic pain and emotional stress associated with the condition may reduce appetite resulting in decreased caloric intake and subsequent weight loss. Additionally, metabolic changes due to endometriosis may contribute to weight loss. However, weight changes can vary among individuals, some can also experience weight gain or no significant change.
What is silent endometriosis?
Silent endometriosis, also known as asymptomatic endometriosis, is a form of endometriosis where individuals do not experience the typical symptoms, such as pelvic pain or heavy periods. Despite the absence of noticeable symptoms, the condition can still lead to complications like infertility. It’s estimated that between 20–25% of people with endometriosis are asymptomatic.
What are the uncommon symptoms of endometriosis?
Uncommon symptoms of endometriosis can include bowel issues like constipation, diarrhea, or painful bowel movements, especially during menstruation. Some women may also experience urinary symptoms, such as painful urination or blood in the urine, particularly around their periods.