19/01/2023
π©Ί Whatβs the difference between polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and ovarian cysts? π€ Letβs break it down πββββββββ
ββββββββ
πΈ PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects around 1 in 10 people with ovaries. Despite its name, polycystic ovaries are present only in some cases of PCOS. Other more common symptoms of PCOS include: loss or excessive growth of hair, irregular menstrual cycle, acne, and weight gain. ββββββββ
ββββββββ
πPolycystic ovaries refer to ovaries that are enlarged and may contain a higher-than-normal number of immature ovarian follicles. While polycystic ovaries donβt have cysts, the immature ovarian follicles have the potential to develop into follicular cysts. ββββββββ
ββββββββ
π₯ Ovarian cysts are relatively common in people with ovaries, and often present with no risk or symptoms. Ovarian cysts can develop and present in multiple different ways. When cysts do present symptoms, they are commonly reported as: ββββββββ
πpelvic painββββββββ
πabdominal pressureββββββββ
πbloating and nauseaββββββββ
πheavy or irregular periodsββββββββ
ββββββββ
π©Ί Depending on your symptoms, it might be worthwhile consulting a doctor to determine the cause. While most ovarian cysts resolve on their own, PCOS may need further treatment, especially if youβre hoping to become pregnant. Iβm always happy to have a chat if PCOS is interrupting your fertility plans βοΈ