Understanding Fibroids vs Polyps
Published: November 7, 2025
Author: Dr. Len Kliman
What Are Fibroids?
Fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in the uterus. They form from the muscle and fibrous tissue of the uterine wall and can range from tiny pea-sized nodules to large masses that expand the uterus.
Fibroids are most common during a woman’s reproductive years and often shrink after menopause as hormone levels decrease. They may develop inside the uterine wall, on the outer surface, or within the uterine cavity.
Causes of Fibroids
The exact cause of fibroids is not fully understood. However, hormones such as estrogen and progesterone play a major role in their development and growth.
Fibroids tend to occur more often in:
➡️ Women in their 30s–40s
➡️ Women of color
➡️ Those with a family history of fibroids
➡️ Women who are overweight
➡️ Individuals with diets high in red meat and low in vitamin D
Symptoms of Fibroids
Many women with fibroids experience no symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they often include:
➡️ Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
➡️ Pelvic pain or pressure
➡️ Frequent urination
➡️ Back pain or bloating
➡️ Difficulty conceiving
Because symptoms can vary, it’s important to discuss any changes in your menstrual cycle or pelvic comfort with your doctor.
What Are Polyps?
Polyps are soft, small growths that form in the lining of the uterus (endometrium) or, in some cases, on the cervix. Unlike fibroids, which develop from muscle tissue, polyps grow from the inner lining of the uterus.
Typically harmless, polyps occur more often after age 40 or during menopause, though they can appear at any age.
Causes of Polyps
Polyps form when the uterine lining grows excessively. As a result, hormonal changes, certain medications such as tamoxifen, and obesity can increase their likelihood. Some women may develop more than one polyp or experience recurring polyps over time.
Symptoms of Polyps
Polyps can sometimes go unnoticed. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
➡️ Irregular bleeding between periods
➡️ Heavy menstrual flow
➡️ Spotting after sex or menopause
➡️ Trouble getting pregnant
Although most polyps are benign, under rare conditions they can contain abnormal or precancerous cells. For this reason, any irregular bleeding should be evaluated by your healthcare provider.
Key Differences Between Fibroids and Polyps
Both fibroids and polyps are uterine growths, but they differ in structure, size, and tissue type.
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Fibroids: Grow from the muscle layer of the uterus and can become quite large. They are almost always benign.
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Polyps: Originate from the uterine lining, are typically smaller and softer, and carry a slightly higher chance of being precancerous.
In short: fibroids are firm muscle growths, while polyps are soft tissue growths from the uterine lining.
Diagnosing Fibroids and Polyps
Both conditions are often detected during an ultrasound or pelvic exam.
In some cases, your doctor may use a hysteroscopy—a small camera inserted through the cervix—to view the inside of the uterus more closely.
Additional tests, such as saline-infused sonography or biopsy, may be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.
Treatment Options for Fibroids and Polyps
Treatment depends on the size, symptoms, and location of the growths. In most cases, your doctor will personalize the approach to meet your specific needs.
Treatment for Fibroids
Small fibroids that do not cause symptoms can be monitored with yearly ultrasounds.
When fibroids cause heavy bleeding or pressure, treatment may involve:
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Myomectomy: Surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus
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Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus, used in more severe cases
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Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): A minimally invasive procedure that reduces blood flow to shrink fibroids
In rare instances, fibroids can be cancerous (known as sarcomas). Warning signs may include:
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Rapid fibroid growth on imaging
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Severe or sudden pain
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Persistent abnormal bleeding
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Suspicious imaging results or a large blood supply to the fibroid
Treatment for Polyps
Small polyps that do not cause bleeding can often be safely monitored. However, larger or symptomatic polyps are best removed using a hysteroscope—a thin telescope-like device—under general anesthesia.
The removed tissue is sent for pathology testing to ensure it is not precancerous. In premenopausal women, the ovaries are typically left intact, allowing hormones to remain balanced.
Recovery and Outlook
Both fibroids and polyps are common and treatable conditions. With proper management, most women experience significant symptom relief and improved quality of life.
Regular checkups and follow-up imaging help ensure ongoing uterine health and early detection if new growths develop.
In Summary
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Fibroids grow from the muscle layer of the uterus.
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Polyps form from the uterine lining.
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Both are usually benign, manageable, and respond well to treatment.
Therefore, if you notice irregular bleeding, pelvic discomfort, or changes in your menstrual pattern, schedule an evaluation with your healthcare provider.
Explore Your Treatment Options
📞 Call us: 952-295-4396
🌐 Learn more: NorthStarFibroidClinic.com
📍 Visit us: 8401 Golden Valley Road, Suite 340, Golden Valley, MN 55427
Citation:
Kliman, L. (2023, April 17). Fibroids vs Polyps: Understanding the Difference. Dr. Len Kliman.
