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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Fibroid and Polyp?

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The main difference between fibroids and polyps is the tissue they are made of. Fibroids are made of muscle cells and connective tissue, while polyps are made up of the tissue that lines the uterus, known as endometrial tissue. Here are some key differences between fibroids and polyps:

  • Composition: Fibroids are composed of dense, connective fibrous tissue, while polyps are made of endometrial tissue.
  • Size: Polyps remain relatively small compared to fibroids, which can grow so large that they stretch the uterus.
  • Symptoms: Both fibroids and polyps can cause heavy periods, irregular periods, or fertility issues, but they are not always symptomatic.
  • Malignancy: Polyps can become cancerous, especially in women who have abnormal bleeding, with an incidence of malignancy of 3-4%. Fibroids are non-cancerous.

It is essential to know the difference between fibroids and polyps because polyps can lead to serious complications like cancer and may require different treatments. Treatment options for both conditions vary depending on the size, location, and severity of the growths.

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  • What is the Difference Between Fibroid and Polyp?
  • Comparative Table: Fibroid vs Polyp

    • Comparative Table: Fibroid vs Polyp

    Here is a table comparing the differences between fibroids and polyps:

    Feature Fibroids Polyps
    Tissue Made of dense, connective fibrous tissue Made of endometrial tissue (uterine lining)
    Location Grow within the uterine walls Grow within the endometrium (uterine lining) or cervix
    Size Can grow to the size of an orange Usually grow to a maximum of a few centimeters
    Symptoms Heavy and long-lasting periods, chronic and severe pain (if present) Irregular and spotty periods, occasional pain (if protruding into the vagina)
    Fertility Can affect fertility or pregnancy, depending on size and location Can cause infertility if large enough to interfere with implantation
    Cancer Risk Rarely cause cancer Can be precancerous or cancerous, especially in cases of abnormal bleeding (3-4% incidence of malignancy)
    Treatment Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), myomectomy (removal of fibroids), or less invasive methods like embolization Hysteroscopy (removal of polyps) or more invasive methods like surgical excision

    Both fibroids and polyps are uterine growths, but they differ in the type of tissue they are made of, their location within the uterus, their size, symptoms, and treatment options. It is essential to understand the differences between these conditions to receive appropriate care and treatment.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.