Both uterine fibroids and uterine cancer may cause similar symptoms, but they are completely different conditions.


What’s the Main Difference Between Fibroids and Uterine Cancer?

The key difference is that a fibroid is a non-cancerous (benign) growth that develops inside or around the uterus, typically linked to the hormone estrogen. That’s why fibroids are more likely to appear during a woman’s reproductive years—when estrogen levels are higher—and tend to shrink after menopause. (1)


On the other hand, uterine cancer is malignant, meaning it can spread to other parts of the body. It’s more common in women after menopause, and while the exact cause is unknown, several risk factors may contribute—especially conditions that cause hormonal imbalances, such as obesity, hormone therapy, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and family history. (2)


Key Differences Between Fibroids and Uterine Cancer

Uterine Fibroids:

  • Prevalence: Extremely common; about 2 in 3 women develop at least one fibroid at some point, often between ages 30–50.
  • Benign: Not cancerous and doesn’t spread to other parts of the body. (1)
  • Growth: Fibroids can grow in size but do not turn into cancer. Their size may range from a small seed to a grapefruit or even a melon in rare cases (some women may appear pregnant).
  • Symptoms: Most women do not experience any symptoms. About one-third may notice heavy menstrual bleeding, painful periods, a feeling of fullness in the pelvic area, or frequent urination.
  • Treatment: If fibroids don’t cause symptoms, treatment might not be needed. Otherwise, treatment can involve medications for symptom control, or surgical/non-surgical options.  (3)


Uterine Cancer:

  • Prevalence: Affects about 3% of women at some point in life.
  • Malignant: Unlike fibroids, uterine cancer is a malignant condition—cancerous cells can spread to other areas of the body.
  • Progressive: Uterine cancer can worsen over time if left untreated.
  • Symptoms: Common symptoms include heavy or unusual vaginal bleeding (especially after menopause), unexplained weight loss, and abdominal pain. These can resemble fibroid symptoms, so accurate diagnosis is essential.
  • Treatment: Often includes surgery to remove the uterus (hysterectomy), along with radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination, depending on the cancer’s stage and type. (4)


Can Fibroids Turn Into Cancer?

In most cases, fibroids do not become cancerous, and they do not increase the risk of uterine cancer. (3)

However, in very rare cases (around 1 in 1,000), a cancerous growth may develop inside a fibroid. Experts believe these cancer cells develop independently—not from existing benign fibroids. (3)


How Can You Tell the Difference Between Fibroids and Uterine Cancer?

Since the symptoms can be similar, your doctor may request several tests to differentiate between the two:

  • Ultrasound: The most common initial test. It helps detect the size, number, and location of fibroids.
  • MRI: Offers more detailed images of the uterus and helps distinguish between fibroids and cancer.
  • Uterine Biopsy: In select cases, your doctor may take a small tissue sample to examine under a microscope—especially if the tumor is rapidly growing or shows unusual features.





At Al-Ahli Hospital’s Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, we offer advanced imaging, diagnostics, and treatment technologies. If you’d like to learn more about uterine fibroids or cancer, don’t hesitate to contact us anytime.




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