The difference between fibroids and endometriosis

If you’ve ever dealt with ongoing pelvic pain, heavy periods, or discomfort that’s difficult to pinpoint, it can be extremely frustrating. Many women live with gynaecological conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, or ovarian cysts without a clear diagnosis for months, or even years.

Since July is Fibroid Awareness Month, now is the perfect time to shine a light on two of the most common (and commonly confused) conditions affecting women’s health: fibroids and endometriosis.

While these conditions can cause similar symptoms, they’re very different in terms of what’s going on in the body, how they’re diagnosed, and how they’re treated. Understanding the difference is an important step in getting the right support and care.

What are fibroids?

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They’re extremely common – affecting 2 in 3 women, usually aged between 30 – 50, and with a greater risk for Black women.

They’re made up of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary in size and quantity, from as small as a pea to as large as a melon.

In many cases, fibroids cause no symptoms at all, but when they do, the most common signs include:

• Heavy or prolonged periods
• Pelvic pressure or bloating
• Frequent urination
• Pain during sex
• Lower back pain or leg pain (if the fibroid presses on nearby nerves)

Fibroids are usually diagnosed via pelvic ultrasound or MRI. Treatment options can range from watchful waiting to medication, minimally invasive procedures like uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), or in some cases, surgery.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis happens when tissue like the lining of the womb (the endometrium) starts to grow outside the uterus. This tissue can attach to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, or other pelvic organs.

Each month, just like the lining of the womb, this tissue builds up and breaks down, but unlike a regular period, there’s no way for it to leave the body. This can lead to inflammation, scarring, and pain.

Endometriosis often goes undiagnosed for years, partly because its symptoms can vary so much. Common signs include:

• Pelvic pain, especially during or before periods
• Pain during or after sex
• Painful bowel movements or urination (especially around your period)
• Fatigue
• Difficulty getting pregnant

As endometriosis doesn’t always show up on imaging, it’s often confirmed via laparoscopy (a small surgical procedure). Treatment options include pain relief, hormone therapy, or surgery to remove the endometrial tissue.

Getting a diagnosis for your pelvic pain

As these conditions share similar symptoms, it’s easy for them to be confused or misdiagnosed. Ovarian cysts are another potential cause of pelvic pain that shouldn’t be overlooked.

A recent survey by Wellbeing of Women charity, involving 3,002 women and girls found that only half say they have seen a healthcare professional about heavy bleeding or period pain.

At SureScan Women’s Health Clinic, we offer expert consultant-led gynaecological assessments and scanning services. These can help women understand exactly what’s going on.

Whether you’re dealing with heavy periods, pelvic pain, or just the sense that something isn’t quite right, it is important to speak to a gynaecologist about your concerns.

Book a consultation with a member of our specialist team today and take the next step towards clarity, comfort, and confident care.