Abnormal growths on the uterus and ovaries come in multiple forms—and while these growths may seem similar and even produce some of the same symptoms, the differences between them are important for patients to understand when it comes to their reproductive and overall health. For both ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids, a lack of treatment may lead to additional health complications that compromise your reproductive health, and result in infections or other serious health concerns.
Each type of growth can be managed through monitoring and treatment by a reproductive health specialist. Fibroids develop on the uterus while cysts are specific to the ovaries. The composition of these growths also sets them apart from one another: cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on the outside of the ovary, while fibroids are noncancerous masses that may develop inside or outside the uterine wall.
Most women develop both ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids at some point in their lives. Many women may not be aware that a cyst or fibroid has developed in their abdomen, unless they develop symptoms or have imaging conducted to evaluate their uterus or ovaries. One key difference between a cyst and a fibroid is that a fibroid is technically classified as a benign tumorous growth.
Fibroids may grow faster or larger during pregnancy and tend to shrink after menopause or if you take a certain type of hormone medication. Cysts tend to vary in size, but they are usually half an inch to 4 inches or larger and can cause:.
A cyst can rupture or cause twisting of the ovary around its supporting structures, leading to:. Fibroids and cysts can trigger pelvic pain and bloating of the abdomen. Two key symptoms can offer clues as to which one you might have. Firstly, abdominal pain on only one side is more likely due to ovarian cysts than uterine fibroids.
In contrast, heavy menstrual bleeding problems are more likely to result from uterine fibroids than ovarian cysts. Many of these symptoms could be due to other health problems as well.
Fibroids and cysts can occur at any time. Fibroids are most common during your 40s and early 50s, and they may grow in clusters. Other risk factors include:. Your doctor may suspect you have fibroids or cysts based on your symptoms and a pelvic exam.
Certain imaging tests may offer up more information, including whether there are abnormal growths and exactly where they are. These tests may include:.
Ultrasound imaging can help determine if the mass is solid or filled with fluid. A high level of CA in your blood could be due to various health conditions, including ovarian cancer.
Polyps are abnormal growths of tissue. Endometrial polyps protrude from the endometrial lining inside the uterus, within the uterine cavity. They can grow large enough to fill the entire uterus, which can interfere with conception. Endometrial polyps are also known as uterine polyps. For that reason, your doctor may recommend a biopsy.
Uterine fibroids and uterine polyps share similar symptoms. There are two types of treatments for ovarian cysts. Watchful Waiting. This is a process of monitoring your cyst for changes in size or appearance through scheduled ultrasounds. Minimal Invasive Surgery. Overview: Uterine Fibroids A uterine fibroid is a growth from muscle tissue. Fibroids can have numerous adverse health effects including: Abdominal pain or cramps Difficult or frequent urination Bleeding between periods Pelvic Pain Infertility You may experience one, all, or none of the above symptoms if you have a uterine fibroid.
Drug Therapy. Often your doctor will suggest birth control pills or other hormone altering drugs. This is the surgical removal of the fibroid. During this procedure, your uterus is left in place. More abrasive approaches include: Hysteroscopy. This is an outpatient procedure that destroys fibroids within the uterine walls through electricity or a laser. Endometrial Ablation.
This procedure is intended to destroy the lining of the uterus and in turn, the fibroids. This is the surgical removal of the uterus. Sometimes doctors will leave ovaries in place for hormonal reasons. Speak to your doctor about this possibility. Final Thoughts Women experiencing pain or other symptoms from either ovarian cysts or uterine fibroids should seek medical advice.
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