Question on PCO and Fibroids

babyface · Post by **babyface** » Tue Jul 29, 2003 8:09 pm

Hi Guys, Can anyone tell me, are pco the same as fibroids? if not what are the difference if you know. Thanks pat x

Becky28 · Post by **Becky28** » Wed Jul 30, 2003 2:34 pm

Hi Pat, I'm no expert, but I don't think they are the same. I think in polycystic ovaries, the cysts are under-developed follicles. In a normal monthly cycle, one follicle would grow larger and larger until it is mature, then release an egg, then disappear. In PCOS, a follicle develops to a certain point, but don't mature enough to release an egg, so don't shrink. So then there is no trigger to have a period, lining stays thick etc, and another follicle begins to grow , doesn't get big enough, stays, etc. I don't know much at all about fibroids, but I THINK they're in the womb rather than in the ovaries. I believe they can cause heavy periods. PCOS can too - because it messes up your cycle and you often go months without an AF, only for it to be mega when it arrives (I speak from experience here!) Hope this helps - anyone else, feel free to correct me if I'm talking drivel! Beck x