Both endometriosis and fibroids are common, benign conditions in women of reproductive age. But are fibroids more common in women with endometriosis? A recent scientific publication attempted to answer that very question.
Specifically, Fiore and co-workers included 23 articles, totaling over 3,000,000 patients. What was the main finding? Women with endometriosis had 3 to 10 times higher odds of presenting with fibroids. This association was even stronger in multiparous women.
“Fibroids appear to be more common in women with endometriosis compared to those without endometriosis.”
Does such a finding make sense? Both endometriosis and fibroids are hormone-sensitive conditions, stimulated by estrogen. Such an association is also supported at the genetic level.
What is the clinical significance of this finding? There is significant overlap between the symptoms attributed to endometriosis and fibroids. Also, fibroids may have a further negative impact on the fertility of women with endometriosis. Therefore, increased awareness is required from gynecologists caring for women with endometriosis, in order to ensure a valid and timely diagnosis of fibroids and, consequently, provide the correct treatment plan based on the findings, symptoms and wishes of the patient.
In modern medical practice, the diagnosis of both endometriosis and fibroids can be made accurately with transvaginal ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
If you suffer from endometriosis, suspect you might suffer from endometriosis, or know somebody who does, feel free to contact our team for expert endometriosis care. Dr. Georgios Grigoriadis, an internationally acclaimed endometriosis surgeon, and his team will be more than happy to look after you with professionalism and expertise.