What Causes Painful Menses (Dysmenorrhoea)? How Can We Relieve The Pain?
Menstrual cramps can come and go, but there are instances where the pain stops you in your tracks and prevents you from performing your daily activities. Painful menses, or dysmenorrhoea, can be a debilitating problem for some women, but thankfully, there are effective ways to help relieve its symptoms. What is Dysmenorrhoea? “Dysmenorrhoea” is the medical term for painful menstrual periods. You may experience these painful cramps the day before or on the day of your period. Apart from cramping, you may also experience other symptoms, including nausea and headaches. Dysmenorrhoea generally subsides after two to three days, but its symptoms can make you believe it lasted longer. Types of Dysmenorrhoea Primary Dysmenorrhoea Primary dysmenorrhoea is the most common type and occurs when there are no conditions or complications affecting your reproductive organs. It results from severe and abnormal uterine contractions and may begin a day or days before your period or when the bleeding starts. Secondary Dysmenorrhoea Secondary dysmenorrhoea is less common than primary dysmenorrhoea and occurs when a condition or complication affects your reproductive organs. It may start earlier during your menstrual cycle and last longer, with some instances chronic pain. What Causes Lower Abdominal Pain in Women? Dysmenorrhoea is commonly characterised by lower abdominal pain that can last a few days. The most common cause is due to a natural chemical called prostaglandin that causes your womb to contract during menstruation and shed the uterine lining. Prostaglandin levels are high during menstruation and cause your womb to contract strongly to shed the uterine lining, while also resulting in pain and cramping. Their levels will gradually reduce after your period, so the cramping also eases up over time. Currently, doctors are still unsure as to why some women experience more painful cramps than others. Some believe it may be due to unusually elevated prostaglandin levels, while others suggest a sensitivity to prostaglandins; further studies are needed. However, the pain from secondary dysmenorrhoea stems from an underlying medical condition that causes these painful cramps. That may include premenstrual syndrome (PMS), uterine fibroids, and endometriosis. What are the Symptoms of Dysmenorrhoea? The common symptoms of dysmenorrhoea include: Throbbing and occasionally intense pain or cramping in your lower abdomen. Pain radiating to your hips, back, and thighs. Unusually long periods of cramping, even after your period has ended (a sign of secondary dysmenorrhoea). Irregular periods. Occasional and sudden bleeding. Vaginal discharge. Diarrhoea. Nausea and dizziness. If some symptoms seem intense or prolonged, you should see a doctor promptly to identify if you may have secondary dysmenorrhoea. Differentiating Normal Cramps from Dysmenorrhoea Normal period cramps generally start just before your period and gradually subside after your period. However, dysmenorrhoea is characterised by significant, painful menstrual cramps that last for some time even after your period ends. If you are experiencing the latter, seek prompt treatment at once. How to Treat Dysmenorrhoea Your doctor will perform several checks, including a pelvic exam, to determine your dysmenorrhoea. He/She may also perform additional tests, such as an ultrasound of your womb and blood tests, if they suspect secondary dysmenorrhoea. Depending on the diagnosis, your doctor will discuss their proposed treatment in detail. Pain Relief Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other medications (like paracetamol) can provide pain relief that reduces prostaglandin levels, helping to reduce the severity of menstrual cramps. You should take your first dose when you experience a cramp or when you have vaginal bleeding, whichever starts first. Be sure to abide by your doctor’s recommended dosage to prevent complications from arising. Hormonal Therapies Some hormonal therapies can help to thin the uterine lining and reduce prostaglandin production to help mitigate symptoms. These treatments are aimed at preventing ovulation to reduce the severity of dysmenorrhoea symptoms while giving you control over your periods. It may be a safer alternative to NSAIDs, especially if you cannot take such medications due to problems such as a stomach ulcer. Surgery Surgery is generally recommended for severe cases of secondary dysmenorrhoea that result from a serious condition such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids, or if your condition does not improve even with nonsurgical treatment. If necessary, a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) may help relieve symptoms; this surgery is a last resort, as you will no longer be able to bear children after the surgery. Lifestyle Changes Home remedies and lifestyle modifications may help with your dysmenorrhoea alongside your medical treatments. Place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your lower back or abdomen during menstrual cramps for much-needed pain relief. A warm or hot bath can also be therapeutic in easing the intensity of cramps. Ensure you get sufficient rest to help you cope with the pain. Enjoy a gentle massage on your lower abdomen and back. Participate in light exercises to stay active and ease your menstrual cramps. Avoid overexerting yourself, as you could potentially exacerbate your cramping. Minimise your caffeine and alcohol consumption. Reduce your salt and sugar intake as well to prevent bloating. Include more vitamins, such as vitamin B in your diet to gradually improve your health. Quit smoking to improve your overall well-being. Manage your stress with relaxation techniques or hobbies, as stress can also exacerbate the intensity of cramps. While dysmenorrhoea is not preventable, you can still minimise its effects by practising a healthy lifestyle and seeking medical help when necessary. At O&G The Women’s Specialist Taking care of your reproductive health is vital to your well-being, and here at O&G The Women’s Medical Specialist, we are ready to support you with a full range of reproductive care services dedicated to your well-being. Contact us today to learn more!
How Does Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Alleviate Symptoms of Menopause?
Menopause is a regular part of ageing for women and marks the end of their menstrual period, but it can be accompanied by various menopausal symptoms that can be challenging to get through. Some women may experience mild symptoms and manage them effectively, while others struggle significantly with adjusting to these symptoms. In such cases, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be invaluable in alleviating these symptoms for a better life. On Perimenopause and Menopause Perimenopause is the transitional period before menopause that typically begins around age 45 and will cause various fluctuations in your reproductive functions. After going through 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, you will have officially entered menopause. Throughout both phases, your ovaries will gradually produce less reproductive hormones, oestrogen and progesterone, that regulate various processes, including your sexual and reproductive functions. This imbalance can cause disruptive symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and more. What is Hormone Replacement Therapy? Sometimes known as menopausal hormone therapy, HRT aims to provide relief from symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. As its name implies, HRT replaces the hormones that are no longer produced by the ovaries to relieve menopausal symptoms. Key studies, including one by the Women’s Health Initiative, have found that HRT is beneficial for providing relief to menopausal symptoms in women going through early menopause. Additional studies have also indicated that HRT should be started within 10 years of the onset of menopause to maximise its benefits. Women who are undergoing early menopause also stand to benefit from starting HRT early. HRT for women above the age of 60 is also possible, but treatment should be individualised to reduce the risks of adverse effects. Types of Hormone Replacement Therapy Your HRT will depend on what may work best for relieving your menopausal symptoms after your initial consultation. Oestrogen Therapy This therapy only provides oestrogen and is generally recommended for women who have undergone a hysterectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the uterus. Oestrogen therapy comes in many forms, including: Oral pills. Topical gels or creams. Vaginal tablets and creams. Oestrogen can also help prevent bone loss, which can occur due to poor oestrogen levels in the body. Tibolone Therapy For post-menopausal women experiencing menopausal symptoms a year after their last period, or after undergoing a hysterectomy, tibolone may be recommended. This medication contains a synthetic hormone that the body breaks down to help alleviate menopausal symptoms. It may also be recommended if you cannot tolerate oestrogen therapy or other HRTs, or if you have endometriosis or fibroids and still require HRT. What are the Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy? The benefits of HRT can be significant, as it can provide welcome relief from menopausal symptoms such as: Hot flashes. Night sweats. Vaginal dryness. Mood swings. Sleeping difficulties. Brain fog. HRT can also offer additional benefits, such as: Minimising the risk of osteoporosis or other forms of bone damage. Reduced risk of certain cancers, such as uterine cancer. Helps clear your mind of brain fog. Maintain vaginal health. How Often Do You Need Hormone Replacement Therapy? For most HRTs, you will need to apply or take your medication daily or as instructed by your doctor. You will typically start on the lowest dose possible for your safety. If you are going through early menopause, a higher dose may compensate for the lower hormone levels produced by the ovaries. Your doctor will adjust this amount based on your age and current health, among other factors. Once you begin HRT, you may need to return to your doctor for regular follow-up checks to determine your current hormone levels and adjust your HRT plan if required. Potential Side Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy You may experience side effects when you first start HRT, which may include: Nausea. Light vaginal bleeding (spotting). Bloating. Breast tenderness. Headaches. Mood changes. If you do experience any troubling side effects, such as severe mood swings, or if mild side effects persist for a long time, immediately see your doctor. They may need to adjust your HRT plan and dosage to alleviate these side effects. Potential Risks of Hormone Replacement Therapy HRT may also present various risks factors, including your age when you start HRT, the amount of time since the onset of menopause, and your medical condition. Some of the potential risks of HRT may include: Blood clots in your leg (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolus). Heart disease. Stroke. Gallbladder disease. Certain cancers, such as breast and uterine cancer. Some forms of HRT may have fewer risks than others, but that may also depend on various factors, such as your current health. You can also minimise these risks by starting HRT before age 60 or within 10 years of menopause, and implementing healthy lifestyle changes like regular exercise. Nevertheless, you should speak with your doctor in detail before deciding if HRT is for you. Who Should Avoid Hormone Replacement Therapy? HRT may not be safe for all women. You should avoid HRT if you have any of the following: A history of heart disease or other risk factors. A personal or family history of breast cancer or certain chronic conditions. Liver disease. Prior history of stroke or blood clots. Pregnant or soon-to-be-pregnant women. Abnormal vaginal bleeding. Allergies to oestrogen or progesterone. Is Hormone Replacement Therapy a Long-term Treatment? HRT is not meant to be a long-term treatment, given the associated risks it may pose to women. It should be managed effectively to relieve menopausal symptoms in the shortest time possible and at the lowest possible dose. As such, you should see your doctor during the appointed follow-up checks to determine if you need to continue with HRT. Moreover, you should also adopt various healthy practices to help manage menopause symptoms over a longer period after your HRT ends. Including more calcium and vitamin D in your diet improves your health and reduces the risk of bone damage. Eat more fruits and vegetables to improve your health and reduce the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease. Minimise alcohol
Ovarian Cysts: Symptoms and Treatments
What are Ovarian Cysts? An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled or semi-solid sac that can grow in one or both of your ovaries. It starts as a benign growth that may not cause symptoms. You may find them growing only after a routine health exam. They commonly develop during pregnancy and will go away if a pregnancy does not occur after ovulation. Some cysts rarely become malignant (or cancerous), causing health complications that require prompt treatment. They may also put you at risk of complications that can affect your fertility. Types of Ovarian Cysts Functional Ovarian Cysts These are the most common form of ovarian cysts and signal that your ovaries are healthy. They typically shrink after 60 days and disappear without needing treatment. Functional cysts can be further categorised into two different types. Follicular cysts: A follicle is a small sac in the ovary which releases an egg each month during the menstrual cycle. If a follicle does not release an egg, it fills up with fluid and becomes a follicular cyst. Corpus luteum cysts: Once a follicle releases an egg, it usually shrinks before becoming a hormone-producing structure called the corpus luteum. When conception does not happen, this structure dissolves. However, in some cases, fluid can accumulate and form a cyst. Non-Functional Ovarian Cysts Sometimes, ovarian cysts can form and cause complications in the future. Early screenings and follow-up checks help minimise their risk of complications, such as ovarian torsion (which can reduce or cut off blood flow to the ovaries). Benign Cyst: Found growing on an ovary’s surface, cystadenomas typically contain watery or mucus-like fluids and can grow very large. Dermoid cysts: Also known as teratomas, these cysts have a smooth, rubbery texture and are almost always benign. Endometriomas: Sometimes called chocolate cysts due to their dark brown fluid content from degenerated blood products, they form due to endometriosis (tissue similar to the uterine lining grows elsewhere in the body). Ovarian cancer: These solid masses are malignant. What Causes Ovarian Cysts? Ovulation is the most common cause of ovarian cysts, but the cyclical cysts that form from this natural process are almost always benign and gradually disappear. However, abnormalities and infections can also cause non-functional cysts to appear, carrying a higher risk of health complications. For example, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal imbalance disorder, causes multiple smaller cysts to form on the ovaries increasing your risk of infertility. Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts Ovarian cysts are typically asymptomatic or only appear much later. Large cysts can cause symptoms such as: Intermittent pelvic pain that varies in intensity and duration. Bloating in or around your lower belly area. Frequent need to use the washroom. Infrequent pain in your lower back. Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse. Painful or irregular periods. Cysts may burst or rupture unexpectedly, causing a sudden, severe pain in your lower abdomen that slowly subsides. The larger a cyst the higher is the risk of a rupture. Diagnosing Ovarian Cysts A thorough medical examination will help determine the state of your ovarian cysts. Your doctor may order specific diagnostic tests to look for ovarian cysts. Pelvic ultrasound: This imaging test uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of your reproductive organs, including the ovaries, and spot ovarian cyst growths. The photos can also determine if the cysts are solid or fluid-filled. Laparoscopy: Your doctor will use a laparoscope, an instrument with an attached light and camera, to examine your ovaries for cysts. The laparoscope is inserted into your body through a small incision. This procedure is commonly used during surgeries to remove ovarian cysts. CA-125 test: This test looks for the protein CA-125 (cancer antigen 125) in your body. This test is usually ordered as part of an ultrasound for more conclusive results. A high level of CA-125 can mean you have cysts. A computerised tomography (CT) scan or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan can be performed if the results are inconclusive. Ovarian Cyst Treatments Watchful Waiting For benign ovarian cysts (mainly functional cysts), your doctor will recommend regular monitoring to ensure they remain benign. Follow-up checks will involve ultrasound scans to see if the cysts have started shrinking. If they become larger or cause symptoms, your doctor will advise you accordingly. Medications for Ovarian Cysts Your doctor may prescribe medications such as hormonal contraceptives (like birth control pills) to stop ovulation as a preventive measure. It may prevent future cysts formation, but may not help inhibit or treat ovarian cysts already present. Your doctor may recommend other hormonal treatments to treat your condition. Surgery for Removing Ovarian Cysts If nonsurgical interventions are not sufficient to remove the cysts safely, surgery will be necessary. Laparoscopy for Ovarian Cysts A laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure. A laparoscope features an attached camera and light, allowing the surgeon to view the ovaries. The surgeon will use special instruments to remove ovarian cysts found with the laparoscope. As a minimally invasive procedure, you typically have a shorter hospital stay and improved recovery outcomes compared to other surgeries. Laparotomy for Ovarian Cysts If the ovarian cysts are larger than expected or if there is a risk that they may be cancerous, your surgeon may perform a laparotomy. It is an open surgery that requires a large incision on your belly (the incision being 5-12cm long, allowing the larger cysts to be removed safely. A laparotomy is a major surgical procedure and will require hospitalisation to facilitate your recovery. Oophorectomy for Ovarian Cysts An oophorectomy is another major surgery where one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) of your ovaries are surgically removed. Parts of the fallopian tubes may also be removed (salpingo-oophorectomy). This procedure is performed if the ovarian cysts cannot safely removed with other treatments. If your ovaries are removed, you will no longer be able to become pregnant. You will also begin to experience menopause, as the ovaries are responsible for producing the reproductive hormones needed for the menstrual cycle. As a result, you may be
Menopause: Signs and Treatments
What is Menopause? Menopause signals the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle, when she has no menstrual period after 12 consecutive months. On average, this occurs at the age of 50, leading to low hormones level. While a natural part of ageing, the changes to hormone levels can cause uncomfortable symptoms, such as hot flashes. In some cases, menopause can also be induced through surgery, specific treatments, or certain medical conditions. Menopause can potentially affect some women earlier. If it happens around age 45, it is considered early menopause. If it occurs at age 40, it is called premature menopause. The Stages of Menopause Menopause typically progresses in three stages: Perimenopause is the transition stage that may start as early as 5-10 years before menopause. Your ovaries begin producing fewer reproductive hormones. You may also experience menopause symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings. Menopause is when you no longer experience menstruation for one full year and experience additional symptoms like vaginal dryness. Postmenopause occurs once you reach menopause, where symptoms slowly ease up but may still occur for some time. You may be at risk of other health conditions due to lower oestrogen level. Causes of Menopause The reproductive cycle functions as early as puberty and gradually “winds down” as we age. As this happens, the ovaries, which produce reproductive hormones and regulate menstruation and ovulation, gradually stop functioning. This causes menstrual cycle changes, slowly becoming regular before finally ceasing. Your body also undergoes changes during menopause occurs, so your menstrual periods may feel longer or shorter than usual. Signs of Menopause You may experience any of these symptoms during menopause: Irregular periods Heavier periods Hot flashes Night sweats Mood swings Vaginal dryness Insomnia Frequent urge to urinate Dry skin Infrequent headaches or joint aches Vaginal bleeding Diagnosing Menopause Keeping track of your periods is ideal to determine when you have menopause. Experiencing some menopausal symptoms before then may also indicate you are going through perimenopause. If necessary, your doctor may perform blood tests to determine your follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. An increase in FSH corresponds with a decrease in oestrogen, but since hormone levels often fluctuate, blood tests may not always give an accurate assessment. This is especially during the perimenopause stage. Can You Treat Menopause? Menopause treatment may be helpful in managing symptoms effectively. Hormone Therapy for Menopause Oestrogen therapy (OT) provides oestrogen in pill form or delivered by other means, such as topical applications (like gel). OT is commonly prescribed to those who have had their ovaries surgically removed to alleviate certain menopausal symptoms. Your doctor may also consider combined menopausal hormone therapy, which uses oestrogen and form od progestogen (natural progesterone or synthetic progestin). It is recommended if you still have your womb, as progestogen can reduce the risk of endometrial (uterine) cancer. There is also tibolone therapy that is provided as a tablet. It is recommended for post-menopausal women experiencing in menopausal symptoms a year after their last period, or for those who underwent a hysterectomy. For those with early or premature menopause, hormone therapy is also known as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), as it replaces the lost hormones your body cannot replace on its own. While effective, hormone therapy does lead to side effects, so be sure to discuss with your doctor first before starting hormone therapy. Living With Menopause The good news is that you can still live a fruitful life while effectively managing menopausal symptoms. Lifestyle modifications can maintain your well-being and prevent symptoms from interfering with your daily life. Certain factors can trigger hot flashes, so it helps to identify these triggers early. Stay cool and dress in layers of breathable fabrics. If experiencing vaginal dryness or pain, use over-the-counter vaginal creams or lubricants. Cut down on caffeine, alcohol, red meats, and spicy foods. Quit smoking to reduce other risk factors that affect your health. Stay hydrated as often as possible, and splash your face with clean water regularly. Enjoy nutritious and well-balanced meals daily, and include more fruits, nuts, and vegetables in your diet. Exercise regularly, ideally for 20 minutes three times a week. Ensure you get at least eight hours of sleep daily and make time to rest. At O&G The Women’s Specialist Looking after your health starts with early screenings, and here at O&G The Women’s Medical Specialist, we are ready to support your journey with a full range of fertility care services dedicated to your well-being. Dr Tan Thiam Chye, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist O&G The Women’s Medical Specialist is helmed by Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Dr Tan Thiam Chye. Dr Tan was the immediate former Head and Senior Consultant in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Urgent O&G Centre, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital. He is adjunct Associate Professor in Duke-NUS medical school. Dr Tan has received numerous awards as clinician and educator. He co-authored the book “Practical O&G Handbook for the Clinician and General Practitioner”, which won the British Medical Association Book Award in 2015. In 2016–2017, Dr Tan co-developed the HealthHub Pregnancy Track, a new web portal and mobile app, with the Health Promotion Board. O&G The Women’s Medical Specialist provides a full range of fertility care from pre-conception check to follicular tracking and Intrauterine Insemination (IUI). Many women also consult us for pregnancy care including prenatal, delivery and postnatal needs. The clinic caters to gynaecological problems such as ovarian cysts, fibroids and menstrual issues. Gynae screening packages and vaccinations are available for women to be in touch with their health and well-being.
Uterine Fibroids: Symptoms and Treatments
What are Uterine Fibroids? Medically known as leiomyomas, uterine fibroids are growths commonly found in the womb. Fibroids are not cancerous and are the most common non-cancerous tumour in women. However, uterine fibroids can still cause health complications, especially when they swell in size and distort the womb. There are several types of uterine fibroids: Intramural: The most common type, generally found in the womb. Subserosal: These form on the outside. Submucosal: Generally found growing in the cavity. Pedunculated: A variation of subserosal fibroids characterised by a pedicle that supports the fibroid. Treating uterine fibroids will depend on your current health condition, the type of fibroids needing treatment, and other factors the medical team deems essential. Common Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids Uterine fibroids do not immediately cause symptoms. A routine medical examination will discover the presence of fibroids. Symptoms may also appear when you are older or when a fibroid’s growth physically affects your menses. Some symptoms you may experience include: Excessive or painful bleeding during or between periods. Longer-lasting or more frequent periods. Frequent urination or the urge to urinate. Frequent constipation. Bloating in your lower body/abdomen. Abdominal distention caused by an unnaturally large fibroid, making you look like pregnancy. What Causes Uterine Fibroids? The exact cause of uterine fibroid formation is still unclear. It believed that the hormones estrogen and progesterone may influence fibroid growth. When hormone levels drop due to menopause or other reasons, the fibroids shrink in size. Uterine fibroids also possess genetic changes that differ from those in normal uterine muscle cells, though why this occurs is still unknown. You may also be at risk if you have a family history of fibroids. Uterine Fibroid Treatments Once your diagnosis is confirmed, your doctor will outline your treatment plan based on the condition of your fibroids. Take the time to discuss treatment options and speak to your doctors if you have any doubts or concerns. Watchful Waiting If you are not experiencing symptoms, watchful waiting is the best course of action. You will regularly need follow-up sessions to allow doctors to determine whether your uterine fibroids have grown or shrunk. Pain relief medication may be prescribed to alleviate any pain or discomfort you experience. Medications Some medications can help to control some symptoms or shrink (but not remove) uterine fibroids. Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Agonists These medications prevent the body from producing estrogen and progesterone, leaving you in a temporary menopausal state. It may help to shrink fibroids and prevent symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding from occurring. They may also be prescribed to shrink fibroids before a major surgery. You may experience side effects when taking these GnRH agonists, including frequent hot flashes. Tranexamic Acid If your symptoms include heavy menstrual periods, tranexamic acid is recommended to help slow and regulate menstrual flow. However, it only helps to manage its symptoms. Surgery Surgery is a last resort for more serious cases. If you plan to get pregnant in the near future, the surgical team will prioritise specific procedures over others to preserve your uterus. Myomectomy Myomectomy involves the surgical removal of fibroids and can be divided into three methods: Laparotomy: The surgeon cuts a incision in your abdomen to reach the womb and remove large or deep fibroids. Laparoscopy: The surgeon makes mini-incisions in your abdomen, then inserts slender instruments and a camera to remove fibroids. Hysteroscopic: The surgeon inserts surgical endoscope through the vagina and cervix to reach the womb and remove the fibroids. Uterine Fibroid Embolisation This minimally invasive procedure injects special embolic agents into the arteries that supply the womb with blood. These agents cut off blood flow to the fibroids to shrink them. Hysterectomy For severe cases of uterine fibroids, the entire womb may need to be removed. It is the only permanent method in which fibroids will never return, but you will no longer be able to become pregnant. Endometrial Ablation The surgeon will use a special tool to destroy the tissue lining the inside of the womb permanently. While it preserves the uterus, you will also no longer be able to become pregnant. MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery (FUS) This non-invasive technique places you inside an MRI scanner to detect uterine fibroids. They will then use an ultrasound transducer to direct high-energy sound waves to heat and slowly destroy uterine fibroid tissue. It is typically an outpatient procedure. At O&G The Women’s Specialist Preventive care starts with an early screening, and here at O&G The Women’s Medical Specialist, we are ready to support your journey with a range of fertility care services dedicated to your well-being.
What Is The Difference Between Fibroids and Cysts?
Taking care of your reproductive health requires a good understanding of how it functions and what you can do to maintain it. It is crucial to look for signs of fibroids or cysts, which may indicate underlying health conditions require a prompt diagnosis and treatment plan. But what exactly are fibroids and cysts? What are Fibroids? Fibroids are benign (noncancerous) growths found in or on the uterine walls; they are sometimes referred to as uterine fibroids. They are the most common form of benign growths found in women and typically do not exhibit any symptoms. While considered benign, fibroids may still cause various health complications, such as pelvic pain, painful periods, abnormal uterine bleeding, and pain around the lower back and pelvis. Types of Fibroids Fibroids can be categorised into several different types: Intramural: These fibroids commonly develop within the muscular walls of the uterus and can cause changes to its shape. Subserosal: These grow on the outer uterine layer and can pressure on nearby tissues and organs. Submucosal: These fibroids are found below the uterine lining and can cause serious fertility-related complications if untreated. What are Cysts? Cysts are fluid-filled sacs typically found in the ovaries. Most cysts are benign and sometimes form as part of hormonal changes you undergo during the menstruation cycle, and are a sign that your ovaries are alright. However, benign cysts can potentially cause various symptoms, such as abdominal or pelvic pain, irregular periods, and thigh pain. Some cysts are also associated with certain medical conditions, such as endometriosis. Types of Ovarian Cysts Cysts can also be divided into a few different types: Functional: These cysts form as part of a healthy menstrual cycle and will resolve on their own. Dermoid: Also known as a teratoma, these smooth cysts originate from reproductive cells in the ovaries. Endometriomas: These cysts indicate endometriosis, where endometrial tissue grows outside the womb. Cystadenomas: These benign cysts are found on the surface of either ovary (or both of them). Cysts are often confused with fibroids and tumours, as they share similar properties. However, a cyst’s fluid-filled nature does distinguish it from a tumour, but requires a medical diagnosis. Comparing Fibroids vs Cysts Despite their shared similarities as benign growths, fibroids and cysts are quite unlike each other in reality. Location Fibroids are commonly found in the uterus, while cysts only grow in the ovaries. Both fibroids and cysts can be simultaneously present in one’s reproductive system, so early screenings can help identify benign or malignant ones. Composition Fibroids appear as dense muscle and fibrous tissue growth, while cysts are fluid-filled sacs. A medical checkup can easily distinguish the two. Complications While both share similar symptoms, such as abdominal and pelvic pain, they do differ in other ways. For example, fibroids may cause abnormal bleeding during menstruation, while cysts may cause irregular periods. Primary Causes The exact cause of fibroids remains uncertain, but some studies suggest that it is due to genetics or hormonal changes. As for cysts, functional cysts are the most common cause during menstrual cycle. However, other cysts may appear due to risk factors like hormone imbalances or underlying conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) . Diagnosis Detecting fibroids and cysts uses similar diagnostic measures. These include pelvic exams to detect physical changes in the affected areas and ultrasound imaging to see changes to the uterus or ovaries, as well as other lab tests. Additional tests, such as a hysterosonography, may help acquire clear images of the uterine lining and check for other complications. Treatment Methods Because of their benign nature, some treatment plans initially adopt “watchful waiting” approach to see if the condition changes and determine the best course of action for treatment. Medications may help treat mild fibroids or cysts, while surgery is reserved for severe cases involving malignant fibroids or cysts. Are Fibroids and Cysts Cancerous? At times, people still confuse fibroids and cysts as cancerous tumours due to shared symptoms. While that does depend, fibroids and cysts are rarely cancerous. Fibroids and cysts are only found in the womb and ovaries, respectively, and do not always increase your risk of cancer. At O&G The Women’s Specialist Preventive care starts with an early screening, and here at O&G The Women’s Medical Specialist, we are ready to support your journey with a full range of fertility care services dedicated to your well-being.
PCOS made me feel out of control
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Dealing With Baby Blues
https://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/dealing-with-baby-blues
Polycystic ovary syndrome: How losing weight can help with irregular periods, acne and infertility
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/how-losing-weight-can-help-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-novo-nordisk
Do I need to get pregnant by IVF or IUI?
6 months have zoomed past in 2022! How is your fertility journey? If you are trying to conceive (TTC) for a year, it is timely to think of IUI or IVF (test tube baby). For most couples, getting pregnant is luckily smooth and easy. Unfortunately, for 1 in 10 couples, they may experience stress in conceiving. What is Assisted Conception? Couples who have been trying for over a year but can’t conceive, should see a gynae to check the cause of their subfertility. Polycystic ovaries syndrome (PCOS) is a common cause of subfertility in some women. PCOS causes hormonal imbalance and ovulation problem. The problem could also lie in your partner due to poor sperm quality or numbers. There are effective sperm supplements to improve sperm quality and number. Unfortunately, some partners may have azoospermia, ie no sperms and need help to retrieve their sperms through surgery. What is IVF and IUI? 2 most common reproductive treatments are intrauterine insemination (IUI), when sperms are injected into the womb at ovulation, and in vitro fertilisation (IVF), when the egg and sperm are fertilised in IVF lab and the fertilised embryos are replaced into the womb. When is IUI needed? IUI works best for couples with difficulty in sex, ovulation or poor sperm quality. Ovulation is first triggered with medications. The sperm washing helps to eliminate poor sperms and chemicals to improve pregnancy rate. Only the best “commando” fast-swimming sperms are injected into the womb. Success rate is 25% per try. Do I need IVF? IVF may be needed for some couples, especially for blocked fallopian tubes, or if the sperms are very poor in quality. Failing to conceive through IUI is another indication. IVF works best if you are younger (less than 40 years old). So, do not procrastinate and seek help early. In Singapore, women over 40 are not eligible for the Ministry of Health’s subsidy grant in public IVF centres like KKH, SGH or NUH. Stay positive and we hope that you will be a parent soon!