Difference Between a Uterine Fibroid & a Polyp

According to the Mayo Clinic, uterine fibroids affect as many as 75 percent of all women to varying degrees during their lifetimes. They are not to be confused with uterine polyps; even though both are growths, they are two different conditions that often require different treatments.

Composition/Causes

• Fibroids are benign tumors in the muscle layer of the uterus. Although the exact causes are unknown, they are thought to be triggered by reproductive hormones and are often hereditary. Uterine polyps occur when there is an overgrowth of cells in the lining of the uterus (endometrium). In a small percentage of cases, they can be a sign of uterine cancer.

Size

• Polyps in the uterus are usually no bigger than a few centimeters. They are much smaller on average than fibroids, which can reach the size of a watermelon.

Location

• Fibroids are located in the smooth muscle wall of the uterus and can extend in any direction. Uterine polyps occur only in the inner lining of the uterus, the endometrium.

Symptoms

• Fibroids, especially the larger ones, are associated with pain in the pelvis and the legs, as well as pressure on the bladder and bowels. They also can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, depending on their location. The main symptom of uterine polyps is heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding.

Treatment Options

• Fibroids can be treated either invasively through a myomectomy (surgical removal), minimally invasively through uterine artery embolization, or non-invasively through hormone therapy or focused ultrasound. Treatment for uterine polyps usually involves surgical removal. Hysterectomy, or the removal of the uterus, can be used to treat either.