When it comes to reproductive health, two conditions that often get interlinked are fibroids and uterine polyps. Although both are common benign growths that can develop in the uterus, they differ in structure, causes, symptoms, and treatment. Understanding fibroids vs uterine polyps is essential for women to know their gynecological health.
What Are Fibroids?
Fibroids refer to non-cancerous tumours that grow in the muscular wall of the uterus. They differ in size, ranging from small lumps to large masses that can affect the shape of the uterus. Fibroids are composed of muscle as well as fibrous tissue, and while their exact cause remains unclear, they are believed to be influenced by hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone. Fibroids tend to shrink after menopause when hormone levels decrease.
What Are Uterine Polyps?
Uterine polyps, on the other hand, are abnormal growths that arise from the inner lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. These growths are small and can range from a few millimeters to several centimeters in size. Polyps are made of endometrial tissue and are usually attached to the uterine wall by a thin stalk. Like fibroids, they are generally non-cancerous, but in rare cases, they can develop into cancer specially with advanced age.
Key Differences Between Fibroids and Uterine Polyps
- Location:
- Fibroids: These develop within or on the muscle layer of the uterus.A fibroid can grow inwards and be attached to the uterine wall by a stalk when its is called a fibroid polyp. They are firm.
- Polyps: These grow from the lining (endometrium) of the uterus. They are soft.
- Composition:
- Fibroids: Made of muscle and fibrous tissue.
- Polyps: Composed of endometrial tissue.
- Fibroids: Made of muscle and fibrous tissue.
- Size:
- Fibroids: Can vary greatly in size, from small to large masses.
- Polyps: Generally smaller but can still grow several centimeters in size.
- Symptoms:
Both fibroids and polyps can cause similar symptoms, such as heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and infertility. However, polyps are more commonly associated with abnormal bleeding, especially spotting between periods or after menopause. Fibroids, especially larger ones, may lead to pressure on surrounding organs, causing urinary or bowel issues.
- Risk Factors:
- Fibroids: More common in women of African descent, women over 30, and those with a family history of fibroids. Hormonal factors like estrogen and progesterone influence fibroid growth.
- Polyps: More common in women in their 40s and 50s, particularly those with a history of hormone replacement therapy or obesity, which can alter estrogen levels.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Both conditions can be diagnosed through ultrasound or hysteroscopy, a procedure where a camera is inserted into the uterus for direct visualization. While fibroids may not always require treatment unless they cause severe symptoms, larger or symptomatic polyps may need removal. Treatments can range from medication to manage symptoms to surgical options like myomectomy (for fibroids) or polypectomy (for polyps).
Conclusion
While both conditions are non-cancerous and share some overlapping symptoms, they require different treatment approaches. If you suspect you may have either condition, consult with Dr Smita Jadhav, the best gynecologist in Salt Lake for an accurate diagnosis.
