General Gynecology

Cancer

Some of the symptoms caused by fibroids may also include warning signs of cancer within the reproductive system. Bleeding may be a sign of cancer of the lining of the uterus, the endometrium, or of the cervix. Often a simple biopsy or an ultrasound will reassure a woman that unusual or heavy bleeding is indeed caused by benign fibroid tumors. While a slowly enlarging uterus is also typically a sign of fibroids, it is important to have a doctor confirm this with appropriate tests. Rapid growth in the size of the uterus may signal a cancer, either of the uterus or of the ovaries.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a hormonal disease. The endometrium, instead of passing through the vagina with the monthly menstruation, may implant on structures inside the abdominal cavity, most commonly the ovary. That tissue is stimulated monthly as if it was inside the uterus. Endometriosis may cause scarring, pain, pressure and infertility, many of the same symptoms as fibroids. Endometriosis often exists in the same patient who has fibroids. It’s important to know that embolization is not a cure for endometriosis.

Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is often called the cousin of endometriosis. This is because the same tissue, the endometrium, passes into the wall, or myometrium of the uterus. This condition often looks like fibroids and will cause similar symptoms. Some patients experience both adenomyosis and fibroids. Again, embolization does not cure adenomyosis.

Other conditions, ovarian cysts, infections, may exist. Consult your doctor to make sure all your symptoms are a result of fibroid tumors.