Fibroids vs. Cysts: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve ever experienced pelvic pain, irregular periods, or bloating, you may have heard terms like “uterine fibroids” and “ovarian cysts” tossed around. While both are common conditions affecting people with uteruses, they’re not the same, and understanding the difference is important when it comes to your reproductive health.
Let’s break down fibroids vs. cysts, how they differ, and when it’s time to see a doctor.
What Are Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus. Also known as leiomyomas or myomas, fibroids are made of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary widely in size, from tiny, undetectable nodules to large masses that distort the shape of the uterus.
Fibroids are very common, especially in people aged 30 to 50, and they often appear during the reproductive years. While the exact cause isn’t known, genetics and hormones (especially estrogen and progesterone) play a significant role.
Common symptoms of fibroids include:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
- Lower back pain
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Some people have no symptoms at all and only discover fibroids during a routine pelvic exam or ultrasound.
What Are Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside an ovary. Unlike fibroids, which are made of solid tissue, cysts are usually filled with fluid and often go away without treatment.
The most common type is a functional cyst, which forms as part of the menstrual cycle. These are usually harmless and disappear within a few weeks. Other types include dermoid cysts, endometriomas, and cystadenomas, which may require treatment depending on their size and symptoms.
Common symptoms of ovarian cysts include:
- Sudden or sharp pelvic pain
- Bloating or swelling in the abdomen
- Pain during sex
- Changes in the menstrual cycle
- Nausea or vomiting (if a cyst ruptures)
Again, many cysts are silent and found incidentally during exams or imaging.
Fibroids vs. Cysts: Key Differences
| Feature | Fibroids | Cysts |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Solid muscle and tissue | Fluid-filled sac |
| Location | In or on the uterus | On or inside the ovary |
| Age Group | 30–50 years | Any age, but especially during childbearing years |
| Symptoms | Heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure | Sharp pain, bloating |
| Treatment | May include medication, hormone therapy, or surgery | Often resolves on its own; surgery if persistent or large |
When You Should See a Doctor
It’s easy to confuse the symptoms of fibroids and cysts, which is why proper diagnosis is key. If you’re experiencing chronic pelvic pain, heavy or irregular periods, bloating, or sudden pain on one side, make an appointment with your OB-GYN. They may use a pelvic exam, ultrasound, or MRI to determine what’s going on.
Early diagnosis can prevent complications and help you choose the best treatment plan—whether that’s monitoring symptoms, medication, or surgery.
If you’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms, don’t wait—talk to your doctor. And if you’ve been diagnosed with uterine fibroids, contact our team to learn about Uterine Fibroid Embolization- a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment.
