Uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts share one characteristic: they are conditions that affect many women worldwide, disrupting their reproductive system. Despite this fact, many patients like you commonly mistake them for the same disease, making it difficult to establish an accurate diagnosis. In this article, you will find out about what sets them apart and when to seek a gynecologist. If you live in Lone Tree or Castle Rock, CO, the doctors from Lone Tree OBGYN & Midwives bring solutions for these conditions
About Fibroids & Ovarian Cysts
Fibroids and ovarian cysts are common structural abnormalities within the female reproductive system, which disrupt women’s fertility. Although they are two different conditions, they present with similar symptoms, making it difficult to build a diagnosis.
Uterine Fibroids
Fibroids are non-cancerous muscular growths that grow in the walls of the uterus. They develop as a single nodule or in a cluster, ranging in size from 1 millimeter to more than 20 centimeters in diameter or larger. They develop within the uterus walls, inside your uterus’ cavity, or on the outer surface. Specific types of fibroids include:
- Intramural fibroids: These fibroids grow within the muscular wall of your uterus.
- Submucosal fibroids: Uterine submucosal growths develop under the inner lining of your uterus.
- Subserosal fibroids: In contrast to the submucosal fibroids, these growths appear under the lining of the outer surface of the uterus. If they become large, they can reach the pelvis area.
- Pedunculated fibroids: This is the least common type of fibroids, which attaches to the uterus with a stem, forming similar to a mushroom.
Ovarian Cysts
An ovarian cyst is a sac filled with fluids or semisolid components that forms on one or both of the ovaries. Most cysts are painless and non-cancerous, as they are a natural result of a woman’s menstrual cycle. They are very common and rarely cause symptoms, but in some cases cysts cause pelvic pain or bloating. Ovarian cysts are divided into these categories:
- Follicular cysts: A follicle is a small sac in your ovaries that releases an egg monthly as part of your menstrual cycle. When this process is disrupted, the follicle is filled with fluid and transforms into a cyst.
- Corpus luteum cysts: The corpus luteum is a hormone-producing structure that dissolves during the menstrual cycle when conception doesn’t take place, but in some cases, it fills with fluid and forms a cyst.
- Cystadenomas: A cystadenomas forms on the surface of the ovary, filled with serous fluid or mucin-dense fluid.
- Dermoid cysts (teratomas): These germ cell tumors develop from embryonic structures, containing ectodermal tissues such as hair, teeth, and sebaceous glands.
- Endometriomas: These cysts are filled with menstrual blood and are a common symptom of endometriosis.
- Ovarian cancer cysts: These cysts are solid masses of cancer cells, which occur most frequently in postmenopausal patients.
♀️Read more about it: Menopause: When Does It Begin and How to Tell?
When to Seek Treatment for Fibroids & Ovarian Cysts
After being diagnosed with uterine fibroids or ovarian cysts, it’s a priority to recognize the signs that you need gynecological treatment before these conditions become a danger for your reproductive health. Some of the signs you might need treatment include:
1. Menstrual Flow Alterations
Uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts may disrupt your period, affecting your fertility. On one side, fibroids change the size and shape of the uterine lining, leading to heavy bleeding, severe cramps, and prolonged menstruation. In contrast, different types of ovarian cysts like endometriomas cause irregular and painful cycles.
2. Severe Pelvic Pain
Fibroids and cysts are common causes of pelvic pain, but not the same kind. Fibroids induce prolonged menorrhagia and pressure on the bladder, leading to chronic and dull pelvic pain. Meanwhile, large ovarian cysts cause symptoms like bloating and irregular periods, triggering sharp pelvic pain.
3. Nausea
When a fibroid or a large ovarian cyst puts physical pressure on your stomach and intestines, it often leads to nausea and vomiting. However, if it comes with pelvic pain, it might signal a severe complication like a ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion, which requires immediate medical attention.
4. Frequent Evacuation
When ovarian cysts develop or uterine fibroids enlarge, they take up space in the pelvis, putting pressure on the bladder and the rectum, leading to a constant urge to evacuate or, in other cases, severe constipation. As soon as you experience these symptoms, immediate medical attention is recommended.
FAQ
How are fibroids and ovarian cysts diagnosed?
These growths are usually diagnosed through pelvic exams and imaging tests. A transvaginal ultrasound is the most common test used to visualize the uterus and ovaries
Do fibroids or cysts cause fertility issues?
Depending on their size and location, fibroids and cysts (specifically endometriomas) can damage the uterine cavity, impairing fertility.
How are these conditions treated?
Doctors keep track of cysts and fibroids with follow-up appointments and ultrasounds. For persistent cysts or fibroids, hormonal birth control and pain relievers are recommended. In some cases, surgical interventions like a cystectomy or a hysterectomy are necessary.
Find Your Next OBGYN in Lone Tree & Castle Rock, CO
Booking a consultation with a gynecologist to treat your fibroids or ovarian cysts is a way to care for your reproductive health and sexual life. At Lone Tree OBGYN & Midwives, you will find a team of professionals dedicated to evaluating your symptoms and care for your health needs. Schedule your appointment or visit us in Lone Tree & Castle Rock, CO.
About Lone Tree’s Mission
Lone Tree OB/GYN & Midwives is a full-service obstetrics and gynecology office with a team of highly regarded providers recognized throughout the Castle Rock, Colorado, community for their exceptional care.