Fibroids, also known as uterine fibroids, leiomyomas, or myomas, are non- cancerous (benign) growths made up of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue that develop in or on the uterus (womb)
. They can vary greatly in size, from as small as a pea to as large as a melon, and may appear as a single growth or in groups
. There are several types of fibroids based on their location in the uterus:
- Intramural fibroids: Develop within the muscular wall of the uterus and are the most common type
- Subserosal fibroids: Grow on the outer wall of the uterus and can extend into the pelvis; sometimes they have a stalk attaching them to the uterus (pedunculated fibroids)
- Submucosal fibroids: Develop just beneath the lining of the uterine cavity and may also be pedunculated; these are less common but can affect the uterine cavity
Fibroids are very common, with estimates that 70 to 80 percent of women will develop them at some point in their lives, especially during reproductive years (ages 30 to 50)
. Many women with fibroids have no symptoms and may only discover them incidentally during pelvic exams or imaging
. When symptoms do occur, they can include heavy or painful menstrual periods, pelvic or abdominal pain, lower back pain, frequent urination, constipation, and pain during intercourse
. In rare cases, fibroids can cause complications such as infertility or pregnancy problems
. The exact cause of fibroids is unknown, but factors such as genetics, hormonal influences (especially estrogen), age, ethnicity (more common in African-American women), obesity, and family history can increase risk
. Fibroids are benign tumors and do not increase the risk of uterine cancer
. Treatment is not always necessary unless symptoms are significant. Options include medication to relieve symptoms or shrink fibroids, and surgical or less invasive procedures if needed
. In summary, fibroids are common, benign uterine tumors made of muscle and fibrous tissue that vary in size and location, often asymptomatic but sometimes causing symptoms requiring treatment
