What are fibroid cysts?

Fibroids and cysts are two different benign growths that occur within a woman's reproductive system, according to Brigham and Women's Hospital. Uterine fibroids are solid growth tumors that grow from the smooth muscle of the uterus. Ovarian cysts are fluid filled growths that come and go with the menstrual cycle.

According to Brigham and Women's Hospital, uterine fibroids affect nearly 70 percent of women, but only about 25 percent experience adverse symptoms. Fibroids appear in women in their 30s and 40s, but shrink and disappear after menopause. Uterine fibroids are more common in African American women, and an affected uterus may have six or more fibroid tumors.