Fibroids, Cysts and Everything in Between

Knowing one’s body and health levels can help in our journey to a healthier self, but there can be instances where it can be a challenge to differentiate certain conditions. For example, uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts are common occurrences amongst women – but how many actually know what each of them are, their similarities or how they differ?

With both fibroids and cysts being mostly asymptomatic and usually only detected on routine abdominal or pelvic ultrasounds, here are some of the most commonly asked queries as answered by Sunway Medical Centre Velocity (SMCV) Consultants.

How common are they and can they occur simultaneously?

Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Dr Wong Yen Shi from SMCV shares that fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop from the muscle of the uterus and often found in women during their reproductive years[1]. Ovarian cysts, however, are sacs containing mostly fluid, occasionally tissues or blood that grow within the ovaries or on its surface.

Unlike fibroids which are benign (non-cancerous), cysts can be benign or malignant (cancerous). This is where consultants will use an ultrasound and CA125 tumour marker test to differentiate a benign cyst from a malignant one. Ovarian malignancies peak at the age of 60 to 65 years. However, Dr Wong provides reassurance that most cysts remain benign. “Many cysts regress on its own in months, and harmless cysts such as follicular cysts or corpus luteal cyst grows and regresses with a woman’s menstrual cycle,” she says.

Cysts and fibroids can occur concurrently – as the condition varies from patient to patient, management and monitoring depends on the sizes and respective symptoms.

What causes them and what symptoms should women look out for?

While the exact causes of fibroids remain unknown, Dr Wong notes that hormones, genetics and growth factors are thought to be a factor in these occurrences. “Like fibroids, cysts occur naturally. Conditions such as pregnancy, pelvic infections, endometriosis and a history of ovarian cysts can increase the likelihood of developing ovarian cysts,” Dr Wong shares.

“Fibroids and cysts may also present with similar symptoms. For instance, irregular or painful period, compressive symptoms such as frequent urination or constipation, abdominal distension or bloating, back pain, unexplained weight gain or even painful intercourse. Fibroids are more likely to present with heavy menstrual bleed in comparison to their cysts counterpart. In cases of ovarian malignancies, feeling full quickly when eating, loss of weight and appetite are the accompanying symptoms.”

Can fibroids and cysts affect fertility?

Consultant Obstetrician, Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist from SMCV Dr Farah Leong Rahman shares that most women with fibroids and cysts have no problems in getting pregnant. However, depending on the size and location of fibroids, it may affect one’s fertility.

“Both fibroids and cysts usually do not interfere if someone is trying to get pregnant. However, some of these conditions may cause the fallopian tubes to be blocked or making the environment less conducive for embryo implantation. This is especially so in fibroids that are located in the lining of the womb. The treatment of this condition depends on the symptoms and surgery is only indicated if it can improve the chances of pregnancy,” she says.