Uterine Cysts

Uterine cysts are tumors that can vary in size from less than 1 inch to as large as a melon. Also referred to as uterine fibroids, or simply fibroids, these growths develop in the wall of the uterus.

Risk Population

• Women in their 30s and 40s have an increased risk of uterine cysts, though these cysts usually shrink in post-menopausal women. Along with women who have a family history of uterine cysts, African-American and obese women are high risk candidates.

Symptoms

• Symptoms common in uterine cyst sufferers include pelvic, leg and back pain. Heavy menstrual flows and frequent urination are also telling signs of cysts in the uterus. If cysts cause enough of an obstruction, complications during pregnancy may result.

Treatment

• Over-the-counter pain medication and even birth control pills can help relieve pain in mild cases of uterine cysts. For moderate to severe cases, common surgical treatments are uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) and hysterectomy. Hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus and is the only permanent cure for cysts. In UFEs, gel or plastic particles are injected into the blood vessels feeding blood to the cysts. Once the blood supply is blocked, the cysts shrink.