If you have been diagnosed with both Asherman syndrome and PCOS, you are not alone — and the overlap between these two conditions is more common than most women realise. Both affect the hormonal environment of the uterus and ovaries, and both can lead to irregular or light periods that are easy to dismiss.
Asherman syndrome involves scar tissue forming inside the uterine cavity, usually after a procedure like a D&C. PCOS is a hormonal condition affecting ovulation. When both are present, sorting out which symptoms come from which condition can feel overwhelming.
PCOS already causes irregular periods and hormonal imbalance — two things that also appear in Asherman syndrome. This overlap means Asherman syndrome can be missed in women who have PCOS, because doctors may attribute light or absent periods entirely to PCOS without investigating further.
If you have PCOS and notice your periods becoming significantly lighter after any uterine procedure, it is worth specifically asking for a saline infusion sonogram or hysteroscopy to check for intrauterine adhesions.
Light periods are a hallmark sign of Asherman syndrome — but PCOS can also cause them through anovulation. The key distinguishing factor is timing: did your periods become lighter after a uterine procedure? If yes, Asherman syndrome must be ruled out regardless of a PCOS diagnosis.
According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, intrauterine adhesions affect menstrual flow by physically blocking the uterine cavity.
Women managing both PCOS and Asherman syndrome face a particularly complex fertility picture. PCOS affects egg development and ovulation; Asherman syndrome affects implantation and uterine receptivity. Together, they can create a situation where even when ovulation is stimulated successfully, pregnancy does not occur — contributing to unexplained infertility.
Managing both conditions requires a coordinated approach. PCOS treatment typically involves ovulation induction; Asherman syndrome treatment involves hysteroscopic adhesiolysis followed by oestrogen therapy to help the lining rebuild.
Research published on PubMed confirms that successful treatment of intrauterine adhesions significantly improves menstrual regularity and pregnancy outcomes.
The Complete Asherman's Compass Guide covers everything from diagnosis to recovery — written from lived experience, backed by evidence.
Get the Complete Guide — $97Medical Disclaimer: This article is written from personal experience and is for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. The Asherman's Compass does not provide medical diagnoses.
Last reviewed: May 2026