Comparing Symptoms of Fibroids to Symptoms of Uterine Cancer

When comparing symptoms of fibroids to symptoms of uterine cancer, it can be confusing to distinguish between the two. There are some similarities, but the greatest difference is that fibroids are non-cancerous (benign) tumors. Understanding the difference between the symptoms can be helpful in determining when to seek medical care.

Symptoms of Fibroids

Fibroids are benign tumors within the muscular of the wall of the uterus. They can also form within the uterus or outside of the uterus. Fibroids tend to occur more frequently when a woman is in her 40s or 50s, but can still affect women of any age.

Some women can also experience the development of uterine fibroids with no noticeable symptoms at all. 

When a woman does have symptoms, they may include some or all of the following:

• Increased menstrual bleeding
• Pain
• Feeling of fullness
• Pelvic pressure
• Increase in size of the lower abdomen that may look like a pregnancy
• Frequent urination due to pressure on the bladder
• Constipation
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Back pain

Symptoms of Uterine Cancer

Uterine cancer occurs when cancerous cells form in the muscles of the uterus. Common signs of uterine cancer include some or all of  the following:

• Abnormal heavy and prolonged bleeding that is not part of a menstrual period
• Bleeding that occurs during or after menopause
• Spotting or bleeding between periods
• Severe bleeding and sharp pain that comes on suddenly
• Pain in the pelvic area
• Abnormal results from a PAP smear
• Painful urination
• Discharge without blood
• Unintentional weight loss

When to See Women’s Care of Alaska

If you have any concerns and your symptoms are worrisome, don’t hesitate to request an evaluation to determine if you have fibroids or something more serious like uterine cancer. 

There are some symptoms that can apply to both of these conditions, which will require further diagnostic care to confirm what the cause truly is. Spotting or bleeding between periods, anemia, severe bleeding and pain, spotty discharge, pelvic pain, a feeling of fullness in the abdomen, and frequent urination can all be suspect.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, contact Women’s Care of Alaska to schedule a consultation right away. Although your symptoms may be the result of a completely harmless condition, it is always best to intervene early in a medical case rather than waiting until your health significantly worsens.

As always, if you have any further questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call (907) 279-2273 today!