Though they’re often confused with each other, and sometimes even mistaken for the other, uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts are actually two different things. Here’s how, why, and what you need to know.
Uterine Fibroids.
Uterine fibroids, on the other hand, are actually tumors — which are typically benign — that arise in the uterus’s smooth layer of muscle. Though women never experience any of the signs and symptoms of fibroids in the overwhelming majority of cases, the symptoms of fibroid cysts should they develop can be pretty severe. In the rare cases when they do, fibroids can cause prolonged, heavy menstrual cycles, pain during intercourse, abdominal pressure or pain, and even bladder and rectal issues.
Luckily, there are several different uterine fibroids treatment options available. Firstly, there are medicinal uterine fibroid treatments that can help women manage their symptoms and possibly shrink the fibroids. These are not a permanent solution, though, and are often prescribed before uterine fibroid surgery. Second, there are minimally invasive fibroid treatments, which are often the most preferable type of fibroid treatments. Radiofrequency ablation, for example, can destroy all the fibroids and just the fibroids without damaging any other part of the body. Thirdly, there are surgical fibroid treatments, such as the hysterectomy, which is the removal of the uterus.
Ovarian Cysts.
Ovarian cysts are cavities filled with that could potentially develop in the ovary’s follicles. Though most times they’re nothing to worry about, cancerous ones can potentially develop. Ovarian cysts are generally asymptomatic, but have been known to cause abdominal enlargement, pelvic pain and pressure, and bowel or bladder issues.
Typically, ovarian cysts can be dealt with simpy by waiting, as they’ll often go away on their own once the menstrual cycle is over. However, sometimes, the cyst may need to be removed surgically.
Most women will never have to worry about ovarian cysts or fibroid treatments, but should any of these symptoms develop, women would be wise to speak to their doctors about their options. If you have any questions about ovarian cysts treatments or fibroid treatments, feel free to ask in the comments.