Endometriosis and Fibroids: How They’re Connected

Many women in Singapore experience pelvic pain, heavy periods, or fertility challenges but few realise that endometriosis and fibroids could be at the root of these symptoms. While they are different conditions, both affect the uterus and often show up with similar warning signs. Understanding the link between endometriosis and fibroids can help you seek the right diagnosis and treatment sooner.

In this article, we’ll explain what each condition is, how they may overlap, and why being aware of both matters for your reproductive health.

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What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the lining of your uterus grows outside of it, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the pelvic lining. This misplaced tissue behaves like normal endometrial tissue. It thickens, breaks down, and bleeds each month. But unlike regular menstrual blood, there’s nowhere for it to go.

Common symptoms:

• Severe menstrual cramps
• Pain during sex
• Fertility struggles
• Bloating and fatigue
• Painful bowel movements or urination, especially during periods

In Singapore, many women wait years for an accurate diagnosis, partly because symptoms are mistaken for “normal” period pain.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or on the uterus. They range in size and number and can grow inside the uterine wall, in the cavity, or on the outer surface. Fibroids are quite common, especially in women aged 30 to 50.

Typical signs of fibroids:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Pelvic pressure or pain
• Frequent urination
• Constipation
• Backache or leg pain

Unlike endometriosis, fibroids don’t involve tissue growing outside the uterus but they can still cause serious discomfort and impact fertility.

How Are Endometriosis and Fibroids Connected?

While they are separate medical conditions, endometriosis and fibroids often occur together. Here’s how they’re connected:

1. Hormonal influences

Both are driven by oestrogen. Women with higher oestrogen levels are more likely to develop either or both conditions. That’s why hormonal treatments often help manage symptoms.

2. Shared symptoms

Heavy periods, chronic pelvic pain, and infertility are common in both conditions. Because the signs overlap, misdiagnosis is possible, especially if only one condition is found during a scan or surgery.

3. Coexistence is common

Studies suggest that having one condition may increase the risk of having the other. For instance, women diagnosed with endometriosis are more likely to have fibroids and vice versa. In Singapore clinics, it’s not uncommon for women undergoing laparoscopic surgery for one condition to discover the other as well.

Diagnosis in Singapore: What to Expect

If you experience persistent pelvic pain, irregular bleeding, or difficulty conceiving, speak with a gynaecologist. Here’s how each condition is usually diagnosed:

• Endometriosis: Often requires a laparoscopy (a minimally invasive surgery) for confirmation, since it doesn’t always show up on scans.
• Fibroids: Typically diagnosed through pelvic ultrasound or MRI, as fibroids are more visible than endometriotic lesions.

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Treatment Options

Treatment depends on your symptoms, age, fertility goals, and how severe the condition is. Here’s a breakdown:

Endometriosis Treatments:

• Pain relievers (NSAIDs)
• Hormonal therapy (oral contraceptives, GnRH agonists)
• Laparoscopic surgery to remove endometriotic tissue
• Fertility treatment, if needed

Fibroid Treatments:

• Medication to shrink fibroids or manage bleeding
• Uterine fibroid embolisation (non-surgical)
• Myomectomy (fibroid removal)
• Hysterectomy in severe cases

A gynaecologist may tailor a treatment plan that addresses both conditions at once, especially if symptoms overlap.

Painful Periods Aren’t Normal: Speak to a Gynaecologist Now

Endometriosis and fibroids are common but often misunderstood. The connection between them lies in their shared symptoms and hormonal triggers. By understanding their differences and overlaps, you can have better conversations with your doctor, ask the right questions, and find the treatment that best fits your needs.

If you’re struggling with painful periods or fertility concerns, don’t hesitate to seek help. Early diagnosis can make a big difference in managing both conditions and protecting your long-term reproductive health. Click the button below to connect with a trusted gynaecologist in Singapore.

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