What is the Difference Between Polycystic Ovaries and PCOS?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between polycystic ovaries (PCO) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) lies in their definitions, prevalence, and associated symptoms. Here are the key differences:
- Definition: PCO refers to a condition where an increased number of small cysts are present in the ovaries, while PCOS is an endocrine disorder that causes women to produce excess androgens (male hormones).
- Prevalence: PCO is more common than PCOS, affecting 19%-33% of women, while PCOS affects 5%-10% of women between 15 and 44 years.
- Symptoms: Women with PCO may experience no symptoms or mild symptoms, while PCOS is associated with a range of symptoms, including long menstrual cycles, increased male hormones, and less ovulation.
- Complications: PCOS can lead to complications such as diabetes and pregnancy-related issues, while PCO generally does not cause many complications.
To summarize, PCO is a condition involving multiple small cysts in the ovaries, while PCOS is a metabolic disorder associated with hormonal imbalances and additional symptoms.
On this pageWhat is the Difference Between Polycystic Ovaries and PCOS? Comparative Table: Polycystic Ovaries vs PCOS
Comparative Table: Polycystic Ovaries vs PCOS
Polycystic ovaries (PCO) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are related but distinct conditions. Here is a table highlighting the differences between the two:
Feature | Polycystic Ovaries (PCO) | Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) |
---|---|---|
Definition | PCO is a condition where there are more ovarian follicles than usual, typically seen on an ultrasound scan. | PCOS is a complex hormonal disorder characterized by the overproduction of androgens (male sex hormones) and anovulation. |
Prevalence | PCO is found in 20-25% of women of childbearing age. | PCOS affects 5-10% of women between 15 and 44 years. |
Symptoms | PCO is often detected during an ultrasound or other forms of pelvic imaging and does not usually cause symptoms. | PCOS is associated with symptoms such as irregular or absent menstrual periods, scalp hair loss, acne, obesity, infertility, and increased risk for diabetes. |
Diagnosis | Diagnosis of PCO is typically based on an ultrasound scan. | Diagnosis of PCOS requires the presence of at least two of three diagnostic criteria: one or both ovaries being polycystic, long menstrual cycles or absence of menstruation, and signs of androgen overproduction. |
Treatment | There is no standard treatment for PCO, as it is not a disease. | Treatment for PCOS may include lifestyle modifications, medications, and fertility treatments, depending on the individual's symptoms and goals. |
It is essential to understand the differences between PCO and PCOS to accurately diagnose and manage these conditions and their potential impact on fertility and overall health.
Read more:
- PCOD vs PCOS
- PCOS vs Endometriosis
- Fibroid vs Ovarian Cyst
- Ovarian Cyst vs Ovarian Cancer
- Cyst vs Polyp
- Follicular Cyst vs Luteal Cyst
- Ascites vs Ovarian Cyst
- Cyst vs Fibroid
- Ovarian Cyst vs Diverticulitis
- Fibroid vs Polyp
- Ovarian Cycle vs Menstrual Cycle
- Adenomyosis vs Endometriosis
- Ovary vs Uterus
- Cystic Acne vs Hormonal Acne
- Oestrogen vs Progesterone
- Uterine Fibroids vs Endometriosis
- Cervical vs Ovarian Cancer
- Oocyte vs Follicle
- Appendicitis vs Ovarian Cyst