Fibroids versus cysts: What's the difference?
Women's health is a topic that is crucial to understand for those looking to improve their overall wellness. Therefore, understanding the differences between fibroids and cysts is essential as they can both affect a woman's reproductive system.
They differ in the location of body.
While both share similarities in terms of their location and symptoms, fibroids are muscular tumors that grow on the uterus, while cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop on various parts of the body, though most frequently in the skin, ovaries, breasts, or kidneys.
Image of a cyst
They differ in their composition.
Fibroids are muscular tumors that develop in the wall of the uterus, whereas cysts are fluid-filled sacs.
They differ in their severity.
Fibroids are typically non-cancerous growths, whereas cysts can form on various parts of the body and can be either benign or malignant. Fibroids can vary in size and often don't cause any major health issues, although they can sometimes lead to discomfort or heavy bleeding. Cysts can be malignant, or cancerous, in which case prompt diagnosis and treatment are vital. It's important for women to pay attention to any changes in their bodies and seek medical attention if they notice anything unusual, such as increased pain or abnormal bleeding.
A large fibroid
They differ in their symptoms.
The two conditions can differ greatly in their symptoms.
Fibroids tend to cause heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure on the bladder and rectum. On the other hand, cysts typically cause pelvic pain that is sharp, sudden, and intense. Depending on the type of cyst, women might also experience irregular periods, painful intercourse, and difficulty urinating.
They differ in how they're diagnosed.
When it comes to diagnosing fibroids and cysts, there are a few key differences. Fibroids are typically diagnosed through a pelvic exam, ultrasound, or MRI. During a pelvic exam, a doctor may be able to feel a fibroid if it's large enough. Ultrasound or MRI can give a more detailed view of the fibroid, allowing doctors to measure its size and location. Cysts, on the other hand, are often found during a routine pelvic exam or imaging test.
They differ in how they're treated
When it comes to treatment, options depend on the severity of symptoms, location of the growths, and future reproductive plans. For fibroids, treatments range from medication to surgery. For cysts, the treatment may involve draining or removing them. It's essential to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for both fibroids and cysts.