Can a Person Get Both Fibroids and Ovarian Cysts?
Before we answer this question, we should discuss the differences between ovarian cysts and fibroids, or alternatively, an ovarian cyst and uterine fibroid.
Uterine fibroids are hard, noncancerous tumors composed of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue. Fibroids can change in size, number, and location as they form inside the uterus or on the uterine walls. Although they are usually safe, they can harm nearby organs, disrupt fertility, and cause painful and uncomfortable symptoms.
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops inside or outside the ovary. This common type of cyst rarely causes pain and may even go away on its own. While most large ovarian cysts are harmless, some can cause pelvic or stomach pain, pressure, or bloating.
Are Ovarian Cysts and Fibroids the Same Thing?
Fibroids and cysts on ovaries can often cause people confusion and cause people to think they’re the same thing. Is it a cyst or fibroid? While an ovarian cyst and fibroids both have the potential to result in pelvic pain and an outwardly bulging abdomen. Both fibroids and cysts are possible, especially before menopause. However, it should be your doctor or fibroid specialist who will be able to diagnose the problem and guide you to long-term treatment.
This leads to the question: Can a person get both fibroid and ovarian cysts?
Although the precise causes of uterine fibroids are unknown, it is thought that a mix of hormones, genetics, other growth factors, and extracellular matrix contributes to their development (ECM).
While most ovarian cysts form due to your menstrual cycle, there are several factors that can contribute to developing ovarian cysts.
For example, cysts may form due to hormonal imbalances and medication your doctor prescribes to aid in ovulation. Endometriosis also can cause an ovarian cyst to form. When a woman becomes pregnant, a cyst might appear. Cysts can also result from an infection from pelvic inflammatory disease brought on by STIs that invade the ovaries.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts and Fibroids
Symptoms of both ovarian cysts and fibroids can be very similar.1
Fibroids Symptoms |
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Ovarian Cyst Symptoms |
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Considering that many of the causes and symptoms, it is possible to get fibroids. Fibroids affect the uterus, and ovarian cysts affect the ovary; they can get both conditions because they appear in different places. However, it might be difficult to diagnose which one you have.
It’s important to visit a doctor or a fibroid specialist who can professionally diagnose you.
Experiencing these symptoms and you’re still conflicted? Take our symptom quiz!
Treatment for fibroids and cysts
Treatment for fibroids can range from uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), a hysterectomy, ablation, myomectomy, and the Acessa procedure.
Treatment for cysts can consist of a needle to drain cysts, medications or injections, or the surgical removal of cysts.2
At USA Fibroid Centers, we are dedicated to educating people about the consequences of uterine fibroids and the full spectrum of available treatment choices. We provide a minimally invasive treatment for fibroids. During UFE, which lasts about 45–60 minutes, our top fibroid specialists use an image-guided catheter to shrink the fibroid tumor by cutting off its blood supply. Because this is an outpatient procedure, patients leave for home the same day as treatment.
Visit USA Fibroid Centers Today for Treatment
You have the power to choose your next steps. Schedule a no-pressure, first evaluation with one of our experienced fibroid specialists by calling 855.615.2555 or clicking the button below.
Sources cited:
- https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/fibroid-vs-cyst#symptoms
- https://www.healthline.com/health/cyst#treatment