Fibroids & Polyps

Fibroids & Polyps

Fibroids

Fibroids are masses of tissue that start from the uterine muscle and then grow into the cavity, within the wall, and push outward toward the uterus. There are three kinds of fibroids: the most common grow inside the wall of the uterus (intramural) but fibroids also may grow inside the uterine cavity (intracavitary), or outside the uterine cavity (subserosal). Health care providers may call them tumors, leiomyomas, or myomas. These masses are not cancerous and do not require treatment unless they are causing problems, such as pelvic pain, bleeding, or heavy or uncomfortable menstrual periods.

The fibroid that grows inside the uterine cavity is much less common than other types, but any type of fibroid can impact reproductive function and may cause infertility or miscarriage.

It is estimated that as many as 1 in 5 women of childbearing age have uterine fibroids. They are most often found in women over age 30, are rarely seen in women under 20, and are more common in African-Americans than Caucasians.

Although it is not known what causes uterine fibroids, they seem to require the hormone estrogen to grow. A fibroid will probably continue to slowly grow as long as the female is menstruating. At the onset of menopause, when hormone levels drop, fibroids are likely to shrink or disappear.

Polyps

Cervical polyps are small, fingerlike growths, similar to a wart or skin tag, that are found on the cervix. They are common and are most often found in women over age 20 who have had children. Young women who have not yet started menstruating rarely have polyps.

A woman can have one or several polyps. Although they are usually not cancerous, all polyps should be evaluated by a doctor. They are easy to remove and do not usually grow back.

The cause of cervical polyps is not clearly understood. They might develop from an infection, chronic (long-term) inflammation, or an obstruction or any alteration in blood vessels in the cervical canal. Researchers believe polyps may also be an abnormal response to an increase in estrogen levels.

Many polyps do not interfere with the ability to get pregnant. However, large or multiple polyps can sometimes cause problems with fertility or result in recurrent miscarriage .