woman researching the differences between endometriosis and fibroids

Topics Covered in this blog

  1. Uterine Fibroids vs. Endometriosis
  2. Endometriosis vs. Fibroid Symptoms
  3. Fibroids or Endometriosis While Pregnant
  4. What is the Difference Between Diagnosing Fibroids and Endometriosis?
  5. Fibroids and Endometriosis Treatment
  6. Visit USA Fibroid Centers for Treatment

Pelvic pain got you stumped?

While both fibroids and endometriosis can affect your well-being, they’re distinct conditions. Understanding the differences between these two common female health challenges can empower you to explain your symptoms effectively and work with your doctor to find the right path to relief.

If you are suffering from pelvic pain, then either endometriosis or fibroids may be the cause. However, you won’t know for sure until you receive a diagnosis of fibroids, including a pelvic exam and an imaging test such as an ultrasound.

Understanding the difference between fibroids and endometriosis is worthwhile to better understand your health, explain your symptoms to your physician, and pursue a treatment plan that will alleviate any symptoms.

Uterine Fibroids vs. Endometriosis

Both uterine fibroids and endometriosis are issues that affect the uterus, but they take different forms. 

Fibroids are benign, muscular tumors that grow from the uterine wall. There are a few different types of fibroids, classified by their location, and they can grow in clusters of multiple fibroids or large enough to cause visible swelling in the abdomen.

With endometriosis, the inner lining of the uterus (called the endometrium) begins to grow outside of the uterus. This can be a painful and chronic medical condition where the overgrowth of tissue can also affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic tissue.

 

symptoms of endometriosis vs. symptoms of fibroids

Endometriosis vs. Fibroid Symptoms

While some women with endometriosis or uterine fibroids might feel perfectly fine, many others experience symptoms that range from uncomfortable to life-disrupting. Although both conditions share some symptoms, there are also key differences to be aware of:

Fibroids

  • Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods
  • Abnormal bleeding between periods
  • Frequent urination
  • Pelvic pain or pressure
  • Pain during sexual intercourse
  • Constipation and bloating

Endometriosis

  • Pain before and during periods
  • Fatigue
  • Painful urination and/or bowel movements during periods
  • Painful sexual intercourse

In addition, both uterine fibroids and endometriosis may lead to an increased risk of difficulty with fertility or pregnancy. Take our quick quiz to learn if fibroids are causing your symptoms.

Fibroid Symptom Quiz

Fibroids or Endometriosis While Pregnant

Both fibroids and endometriosis can make it difficult to conceive, but it is possible to become pregnant with either condition. Some women have no symptoms or issues during their pregnancy, while others may experience complications.

If fibroids continue to grow during a woman’s pregnancy, they can take up space needed for the baby’s growth. They may also make normal delivery difficult, requiring a Cesarean section delivery.

Endometriosis can also cause complications with pregnancy, including an increased risk of miscarriage and preeclampsia. If you become pregnant with either fibroids or endometriosis, your doctor will likely want to keep a close eye on your health.

What is the Difference Between Diagnosing Fibroids and Endometriosis?

Fibroids and endometriosis may have a preliminary diagnosis with a pelvic exam at a doctor’s visit. The doctor may diagnose fibroids after hearing about a patient’s symptoms and conducting a pelvic examination. They may also recommend an MRI or ultrasound to take of the fibroids, helping inform how many there are and where they are located.

Women at Risk of Fibroids and Endometriosis

  • Uterine fibroids: These frequently affect women of childbearing age, particularly those between 35 and 49. African American women and those with a family history of fibroids have a higher risk.

  • Endometriosis: This condition can impact women of all ages but is often diagnosed during the teenage years and young adulthood.

Fibroids and Endometriosis Treatment

Both fibroids and endometriosis have various treatment approaches depending on the individual’s specific situation, including the severity of symptoms, age, and desire for future pregnancy.

Consulting with a healthcare professional to discuss the appropriate treatment plan is crucial. It’s important to note that additional treatment may be necessary if other medical conditions are present alongside either fibroids or endometriosis.

Uterine Fibroid Treatment

Many women facing uterine fibroids are often presented with two surgical options: a hysterectomy, which removes the entire uterus, or a myomectomy, which targets and removes the fibroids themselves. However, a less invasive alternative is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE).

During UFE, a specialist blocks the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and die. This often leads to a significant reduction or complete resolution of symptoms. Benefits of UFE include:

  • Minimally invasive: No large incisions are required.
  • Faster recovery: Compared to traditional surgery.
  • Preserves the uterus: A crucial factor for women who may wish to have children in the future.

Endometriosis Treatment

Laparoscopic surgery may be recommended to improve fertility, manage pain, or remove endometriosis tissue. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort.  Hormone therapy can help slow the growth of the endometrial tissue but is not suitable for everyone.

Visit USA Fibroid Centers for Treatment

USA Fibroid Centers specializes in FDA-approved uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). If you are suffering from painful and prolonged menstruation that continues for more than a week, pelvic pain and pressure, frequent urination, pain during sexual intercourse, constipation, or bloating, UFE can effectively relieve these symptoms.

Treatments at USA Fibroid Centers are covered by most insurance plans. Whether you have uterine fibroids vs endometriosis, if you are searching for symptom relief, contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our highly qualified fibroid specialists

Connect With Fibroid Specialists Near You

Where do you need a fibroid specialist?

 

Sources:

  1. UT Southwestern Medical Clinic. (June 2019) Fertility-sparing treatment for endometriosis and fibroids
  2. Frontiers. (October 2021) Endometriosis and uterine fibroids: Comorbidity, Risks, and Implications.

Medical News Today (May 2022). What to Know About Endometriosis during Pregnancy.