Fibroids vs Polyps: What You Need to Know

Taking care of uterine health is an essential part of overall wellness for women. Conditions like fibroids and polyps are common, yet they can sometimes be confusing because of their similarities. While both affect the uterus, they are distinct in their causes, symptoms, and treatment. Let’s understand deeper into what sets them apart and why understanding fibroids vs polyps differences matters.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are growths made of smooth muscle tissue that develop from the muscle layer of the uterus. These non-cancerous masses and can vary in size from a few millimeters to more than 15cm.

Fibroids are categorized by their location in the uterus the old classification was:

Submucosal Fibroids: These grow just beneath the uterine lining and are a common cause of heavy bleeding.
Intramural Fibroids: These are found within the muscular wall of the uterus, these can lead to abdominal pain and bloating.
Subserosal Fibroids: Located on the uterus’ outer surface, these fibroids can press on surrounding organs, causing discomfort.

What Causes Uterine Fibroids to Grow?

Although the exact causes of fibroid growth are not fully understood, several factors play a role:

Hormonal Fluctuations: Fibroids are influenced by estrogen and progesterone. These hormones stimulate fibroid growth, which is why they often shrink after menopause when hormone levels drop. As such fibroids tend to grow during pregnancy
Multiparity: There is a higher risk of fibroids in relation to the number of children a patient has.
Family History: Genetics can increase your likelihood of developing fibroids.
Lifestyle and Health Factors: Obesity, high blood pressure, and a diet high in red meat are linked to an increased risk of fibroids.
Medication: Including fertility treatment

Common Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids can sometimes develop without noticeable symptoms. However, they often cause:

Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods
Pelvic pain or a feeling of pressure
Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
Constipation
Pain during intercourse
A visibly swollen abdomen

What Are Uterine Polyps?

Uterine polyps are soft, finger-like growths that develop from the inner lining of the uterus. Unlike fibroids, which are made of muscle, polyps form from endometrial tissue and usually remain small in size. They often occur during hormonal shifts, such as those experienced during perimenopause.

Symptoms of Uterine Polyps

Polyps can also be asymptomatic, but when symptoms occur, they include:

Irregular uterine bladder
Bleeding between periods
Heavy periods
Postmenopausal spotting or bleeding
Difficulty conceiving in some cases

Fibroids vs Polyps: Key Differences

Although fibroids vs polyps share some similarities, they differ in many important ways:

Composition: Fibroids are made of muscle tissue, while polyps are formed from the uterine lining.
Size: Fibroids can grow quite large, whereas polyps are typically smaller and softer.
Location: Fibroids can grow within the uterine wall or outside it, while polyps are confined to the uterine cavity.
Symptoms: Fibroids often cause pain and pressure, while polyps are more likely to result in abnormal bleeding.

How Are Fibroids and Polyps Diagnosed?

Doctors typically use imaging tools like ultrasounds, hysteroscopies, or MRIs to identify fibroids and polyps. A thorough examination and medical history are also critical in determining the best course of action.

Treatment Options

Treatment of fibroids and polyps varies based on the severity of symptoms, the size, growths, it’s location and the patient’s reproductive goals.

Treatment For Fibroids:

Medications: Hormonal treatments like GnRH agonists can help shrink fibroids temporarily.
Radiological treatments: High intensity focussed ultrasound and uterine artery embolization to break down fibroids or reduce blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink.
Minimally Invasive Procedures: Laparoscopic myomectomy
Surgery: Myomectomy preserves the uterus while removing fibroids. Hysterectomy is a permanent solution for severe cases.

Treatment For Polyps:

Hormonal Treatments: These can ease symptoms but won’t remove the polyps.
Hysteroscopy and polypectomy: A simple, minimally invasive procedure to remove polyps using a hysteroscope.

Can Lifestyle Changes Help?

While lifestyle adjustments won’t eliminate fibroids or polyps, they can support overall uterine health and reduce the risk of complications:

Healthy Eating: A nutrition-rich diet comprising fruits, vegetables, and more wholesome food can improve hormonal balance. It is advised to limit red meat and processed foods.
Stress Reduction: Chronic stress impacts hormone levels. Spiritual practices such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can be helpful.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Keeping your weight in check reduces estrogen production, potentially slowing fibroid growth.

Looking Beyond the Physical Impact

Living with fibroids or polyps is not just about managing physical symptoms-but much more. The emotional toll and anxiety that arises over heavy bleeding, or frustration with fertility challenges—is real. Do not hesitate to seek support from counseling, support groups, or even friends and family to navigate this journey.

When to Seek Help

If you experience unusual bleeding, persistent pelvic pain, or other troubling symptoms, it’s time to consult a doctor. Early diagnosis leads to more accuracy, better treatment outcomes and mental peace.

Dr Ibrahim Abd Elrahman Is Here to Help

Understanding the difference between fibroids vs polyps is the first step toward addressing your uterine health concerns.

Dr Ibrahim Abd Elrahman specialises in providing personalised care to help women find relief and regain control of their health. Schedule a consultation today with Dr Ibrahim to start your journey toward better well-being.

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