Fibroids 101
Uterine fibroids are almost always benign (non-cancerous) growths made of the same smooth muscular tissue of the uterus (the myometrium). When those muscle cells grow abnormally, they can form into a firm rubbery mass that sticks out from the surrounding tissue. You can have a single or multiple fibroid(s). They can grow slowly, quickly or remain the same size. Fibroids can even shrink on their own. They can also range in size, from a tiny seed to a large mass the size of a grapefruit! And they can grow in different places in your uterus; hence their various names, like pedunculated, submucosal, intramural and subserosal fibroids.*
Fortunately, uterine fibroids rarely, if ever, develop into cancer1 — and in many cases, they can be easily removed by your doctor.
* The MyoSure system is not indicated for the removal of intramural and subserosal fibroids.
Polyps 101
Uterine polyps are bulges of tissue that grow on the uterine lining (endometrium). Polyps form when the same kind of cells as the lining itself start growing abnormally. They can range in size from a few centimeters (the size of a small seed) up to the size of a golf ball.2 Your doctor will evaluate your specific requirements based on the size and location of your polyp(s).
Have you been diagnosed with fibroids or polyps? This guide may help you ask your doctor the right questions.
References
1. https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/uterine-fibroids#g 2. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/uterine-polyps/basics/definition/con-20027472
