The Hidden Link Between PCOS, Endometriosis And Your Heart

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis are very different diseases of the female reproductive system. You may be aware that these conditions can cause hormone imbalances, chronic pelvic pain and difficulty getting pregnant. What often comes as a surprise to women is that these conditions also can affect cardiovascular health.

Caitlin Luebcke, DNP, an Indianapolis nurse practitioner with a special interest in women’s heart care at Franciscan Physician Network, explained.

“Women’s bodies are unique, and conditions like PCOS and endometriosis can affect the heart in ways people might not expect,” she said. “Recognizing these connections early gives women a chance to protect their cardiovascular health.”

Key Takeaways: PCOS And Heart Disease

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis are reproductive health issues that also can increase a woman’s risk for heart disease.
• Early awareness and monitoring matter. You can protect your heart when you recognize symptoms and seek care.
• It’s essential to manage PCOS and endometriosis symptoms, but don’t neglect your heart health. You can protect your heart with a healthy lifestyle and guidance from your healthcare provider.

PCOS And Endometriosis: What’s The Difference?

Endometriosis happens when tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus grows outside the uterus. The tissue can grow in places on or around the ovaries, fallopian tubes and the tissue that lines the inside of the pelvis. It can bleed and form scar tissue.

Endometriosis symptoms include:

• Heavy periods or bleeding between periods
• Infertility caused by the development of scar tissue
• Pain during intercourse, bowel movements or urination
• Painful periods

PCOS is a hormonal disorder. It happens when the ovaries produce higher levels of certain hormones, like testosterone, which can affect how the body manages blood sugar and fat. These hormone changes can increase the risk of health problems, including diabetes and heart disease.

PCOS symptoms include:

• Difficulties getting pregnant
• Irregular periods
• Weight changes

PCOS, Hormones And Your Heart

Hormone imbalances associated with PCOS indirectly impact the heart.

“PCOS often causes higher levels of testosterone and can lead to insulin resistance, obesity and elevated luteinizing hormone levels,” Luebcke explained. “Each of these factors can independently increase cardiovascular risk. That’s why women with PCOS are more likely to develop high blood pressure, heart attacks or strokes later in life.”

Why Endometriosis Affects Your Heart

Like PCOS, endometriosis can affect more than reproductive health. It may also increase the risk of heart disease or heart attack, especially in women under 40.

Researchers think this risk is linked to inflammation. During the menstrual cycle, areas affected by endometriosis can become inflamed and irritated. This can cause pain, heavy periods, scar tissue and ovarian cysts.

Inflammation anywhere in the body can put extra stress on the heart. Inflammation also can increase stress hormones like cortisol, which can elevate heart rate and blood pressure and make artery blockages more likely. These blockages can directly result in a heart attack, stroke or other artery problems.

How To Protect Your Heart

Women who live with PCOS or endometriosis need medical care that addresses their reproductive health as well as their cardiovascular health. Lifestyle habits also play a key role:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Follow a heart-healthy diet such as the Mediterranean diet
• Exercise at least 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity
• Find ways to manage your stress
• Get seven to nine hours of sleep each night
• Avoid tobacco, vaping, excessive alcohol and recreational drugs.

Learn 5 ways women can prevent heart disease.

Your primary care doctor can help, too. Talk to them about your concerns and make sure to get recommended screenings to catch potential problems early.

Most importantly, advocate for your own heart health.

“If you notice symptoms that feel unusual or concerning, even if they don’t match typical heart disease signs, speak up, get tested, and seek guidance from your healthcare provider,” Luebcke said. “Healthy lifestyle choices and proactive care give women with PCOS and endometriosis the best chance to protect their heart.”

Living with PCOS or endometriosis means paying attention to more than reproductive health. Connect with a Franciscan Health provider to protect your heart, too. Schedule an appointment today or call (877) 285-6180.