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Uterine Myoma (Fibroids) and Polyps

What are polyps?

Uterine polyps are oval or round, they remain attached to the uterine wall by a large base or a thin stalk. Polyps usually occur in perimenopausal or postmenopausal women. Although polyps are usually contained within the uterus, they may occasionally arise on the surface of the cervical canal.

Uterine polyps are an overgrowth of tissue that arises from the endometrium - the uterine lining. This tissue is expelled during the menstrual cycle. After menstration, the endometrium regenerates rapidly under the influence of hormones. Polyps occur in areas where the lining grows in excess.

Polyp and myoma (fibroid) similarities

  • Both are hormone induced growths
  • Most treatment methods for both polyps and fibroids are invasive
  • Uterine polyps and fibroids may both affect the reproduction process similar to that of an intra-uterine contraceptive device.

Uterine myoma (fibroids) and polyp differences

 
Polyp
Size Myoma may range in size from just a few millimeters to the size of a watermelon.

A polyp is usually much smaller and rarely grows to reach the size of an orange.

 
Composition Uterine myoma is made from hard muscle tissue. They grow within the thick muscular layer of the uterus. Polyps are made of endometrial tissue. They are malleable and stem from the inner lining of the uterus.
Regression Myomas do not regress. Some myoma may shrink, but only after menopause. Small polyps may regress at any stage.
Noninvasive Treatment Options Some forms of myoma may be treated with noninvasive MR guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery. There are no noninvasive treatment options for polyps.

 

Polyps and uterine myoma (fibroids) symptoms

Uterine myoma (fibroids) vary in size and texture from polyps. As a result the body reacts to them differently.

Uterine myoma (fibroid) symptoms:

  • Very heavy and prolonged menstrual periods
  • Pressure on the bladder causing a constant need to urinate, incontinence, or the inability to empty the bladder
  • Pressure on the bowel which can lead to constipation and/or bloating
  • Enlarged abdomen which may be mistaken for pregnancy, or weight gain
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Pain in the back of the legs
  • Pelvic pain or pressure

Polyp symptoms:

  • Spotting, or bleeding between menstrual periods
  • Irregular menstrual bleeding that varies in duration and heaviness
  • Infertility
  • Vaginal bleeding after menopause