Polyp vs. Myoma: What’s the Difference and Should You Be Concerned?
If you’ve been told you have a polyp or a myoma (also known as a fibroid), you might be wondering what that really means, and how it could affect your fertility. Although these two conditions can sound similar, they are quite different in both cause and impact.
Understanding the difference between polyp vs myoma is important, especially if you’re trying to conceive or are planning for IVF. At Bourn Hall UAE, we help women navigate these diagnoses with clarity and care. Here’s what you need to know.
What Are Polyps?
Uterine polyps are soft, non-cancerous growths that form in the lining of the uterus (the endometrium). They’re made up of excess endometrial tissue and are usually small, ranging from a few millimetres to a few centimetres in size.
Polyps are often caused by hormonal fluctuations, particularly an overgrowth of oestrogen. They can occur at any age but are more common in women in their 30s and 40s or during perimenopause.
What Are Myomas?
Myomas, also known as uterine fibroids, are benign (non-cancerous) tumours that grow within the muscular wall of the uterus. They’re made of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary widely in size, from as small as a seed to as large as a melon.
Unlike polyps, fibroids can grow in different parts of the uterus:
- Intramural (within the uterine wall)
- Submucosal (just beneath the uterine lining)
- Subserosal (on the outer wall of the uterus)
They are also hormone-sensitive, typically fuelled by oestrogen and progesterone, and tend to develop during the reproductive years
Polyp vs Myoma: Key Differences
Feature | Polyps | Myomas (Fibroids) |
Composition | Endometrial tissue | Muscle and fibrous tissue |
Location | Uterine lining (endometrium) | Uterine wall or surrounding areas |
Size | Typically small | Can grow large |
Texture | Soft | Firm |
Hormone sensitivity | Yes | Yes |
Symptoms | Irregular bleeding, spotting | Heavy periods, pelvic pain, bloating |
Fertility impact | May interfere with implantation | May block fallopian tubes or affect uterine shape |
How Do They Affect Fertility?
Both polyps and myomas can affect your chances of getting pregnant, especially if they are located in areas that disrupt the normal function of the uterus.
Polyps and Fertility:
- Can interfere with embryo implantation
- May increase the risk of miscarriage
- Often discovered during investigations for unexplained infertility
Myomas and Fertility:
- Can distort the shape of the uterus or block the fallopian tubes
- May prevent an embryo from properly attaching
- Associated with early pregnancy loss and complications during pregnancy
At Bourn Hall UAE, we routinely assess the uterine environment during fertility evaluations and can identify and treat both polyps and fibroids using minimally invasive procedures when necessary.
Symptoms to Watch For
Some women experience no symptoms at all, especially with small polyps or fibroids. However, you should speak to a specialist if you experience:
- Irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding
- Bleeding between periods
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Pain during intercourse
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Diagnosis and Treatment
To detect polyps or myomas, doctors typically use imaging tests such as:
- Transvaginal ultrasound
- Hysterosonography (saline infusion scan)
- Hysteroscopy
- MRI (for large or complex cases)
Treatment options depend on the size, location, and symptoms. These may include:
- Hysteroscopic removal (for polyps or submucosal fibroids)
- Myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids)
- Medication to manage symptoms or shrink fibroids
- Monitoring, if the growths are small and not causing issues
Our team at Bourn Hall UAE will work with you to determine the most appropriate plan, especially if you’re preparing for IVF or other fertility treatments.
When it comes to polyp vs myoma, understanding the difference can make a big impact on your fertility journey. Our fertility specialists are equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options to help you overcome these challenges. Whether you’re trying to conceive naturally or with assisted reproduction, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Are you concerned about your symptoms or fertility health? Book a consultation with our expert team today.