Women’s reproductive health can be complicated—especially when conditions like fibroids and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) share overlapping symptoms. But even though both affect the reproductive system, they are very different conditions.
Here’s how to tell them apart and when you should seek help.
What Are Fibroids?
Fibroids are benign tumors of the uterus made of smooth muscle tissue. They can vary in size, location, and number. Many women never experience symptoms, but when they do, it’s often because fibroids press on nearby organs or interfere with menstrual function.
What Is PCOS?
PCOS is a hormonal disorder primarily involving the ovaries, characterized by high androgen levels, irregular or absent ovulation, and sometimes multiple small cysts.
Key Differences
| Feature | Fibroids | PCOS | | ------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Location | Uterine muscle layer or cavity en.wikipedia.org+9womens-healthcare.co.uk+9elanhealthcare.ca+9 | Ovaries (hormonal imbalance) | | Symptoms | Heavy bleeding, pelvic/rectal pressure, urinary frequency, pain during sex | Irregular cycles, acne, hirsutism, weight gain, infertility | | Hormone Imbalance | Estrogen-driven growth, symptomatic if large | Elevated androgens, insulin resistance, ovulatory dysfunction | | Imaging | Diagnosed via ultrasound or MRI | Diagnosed via ultrasound + hormone tests | | Impact on fertility | Submucosal fibroids can distort uterine cavity and reduce implantation rates | Ovulation issues lead to infertility; treatable with weight loss & medication |
Overlap & Coexistence
Symptoms like heavy bleeding and irregular cycles can appear in both conditions. It’s also possible for a woman to have both fibroids and PCOS simultaneously — though having one doesn’t necessarily cause the other.
In fact, studies show women with PCOS may have a lower prevalence of fibroids relative to those without PCOS, possibly due to their distinct hormonal profiles
When to Seek Help
If you experience:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Acne, hair growth, or weight gain
- Irregular or missing periods
...it’s time to consult a gynecologist. Early diagnosis allows you to explore targeted treatments—whether that means managing fibroids with medication or surgery, or addressing PCOS with lifestyle changes and fertility-focused care.
How Ovy Health Can Support You
Ovy Health offers:
- 📱 Hormone testing kits (AMH, FSH, LH, testosterone) to detect PCOS or estrogen-related issues
- 📊 Symptom tracking tools to monitor pain, cycles, and bleeding
- 🩺 Expert referrals for ultrasound diagnosis or specialist care
- 📚 Holistic advice on lifestyle, nutrition, and emotional wellness
Final Thoughts
Don’t let similar symptoms cloud your path to care. Understanding whether it’s fibroids, PCOS, or both is the first step toward clarity and effective treatment.
Start with Ovy’s hormone test and symptom tracker today, or book a consult to get personalized guidance.