What Are Uterine Fibroids? Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
July is uterine fibroids awareness month. Uterine fibroids are one of the most common reproductive health issues affecting women, yet they often go undiagnosed or misunderstood. These non-cancerous growths in the uterus can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life, from menstrual pain to fertility issues. Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed or are just trying to understand more, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about uterine fibroids.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop from the muscle tissue of the uterus. They can range in size from as small as a seed to as large as a melon, and a woman may have a single fibroid or multiple at once.
They typically appear during a woman’s reproductive years between puberty and menopause and are influenced by hormonal levels, especially estrogen and progesterone.
Types of Uterine Fibroids
Fibroids are classified based on their location in the uterus:
Intramural Fibroids
These are the most common type and grow within the muscular wall of the uterus. They may enlarge the uterus and cause heavy bleeding or pressure symptoms.Subserosal Fibroids
These grow on the outer surface of the uterus and can press on surrounding organs like the bladder or bowel, leading to pelvic pain, bloating, or urinary issues.Submucosal Fibroids
Found just beneath the lining of the uterus, these fibroids can protrude into the uterine cavity and are most likely to cause heavy menstrual bleeding and fertility issues.Pedunculated Fibroids
These are attached to the uterus by a thin stalk, either inside (submucosal) or outside (subserosal). Their stalked nature can make them prone to twisting, causing pain.
Who Is at Risk?
While any woman can develop fibroids, certain factors increase the risk:
Age: Most common in women aged 30 to 50.
Family History: A mother or sister with fibroids increases your risk.
Ethnicity: African-American women are more likely to develop fibroids and often at younger ages with more severe symptoms.
Hormonal Imbalance: Estrogen and progesterone promote fibroid growth.
Obesity: Higher body weight is linked to an increased risk.
Diet: High red meat consumption and low intake of fruits and vegetables can contribute.
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
Many women with fibroids may experience no symptoms at all, especially if the fibroids are small. However, when symptoms are present, they may include:
Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods
Pelvic pressure or pain
Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
Constipation or bloating
Pain during intercourse
Lower back or leg pain
Difficulty getting pregnant or recurrent pregnancy loss
The severity of symptoms usually depends on the size, number, and location of the fibroids.
How Are Fibroids Diagnosed?
Diagnosing fibroids usually begins with a pelvic exam. If your doctor suspects fibroids, they may order imaging tests, such as:
Ultrasound (transabdominal or transvaginal): Most common first step.
MRI: Provides a more detailed image of fibroids and surrounding tissues.
Hysterosonography: Saline is injected into the uterus during ultrasound to get clearer images.
Hysteroscopy: A thin scope is inserted through the cervix to view fibroids inside the uterus.
How Do Uterine Fibroids Affect Fertility and Pregnancy?
Not all fibroids impact fertility, but some types, especially submucosal, can interfere with implantation or increase the risk of miscarriage. During pregnancy, fibroids may grow due to increased hormone levels, potentially leading to:
Placental abruption
Preterm labor
Breech position
Cesarean section
Women with fibroids who are trying to conceive should speak with a gynecologist or fertility specialist to assess the impact and explore treatment options.
Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids
The best treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, size and location of fibroids, age, and desire to have children. Here are the main options:
1. Watchful Waiting
If fibroids are small and not causing symptoms, your doctor may recommend monitoring them with regular exams and imaging.
2. Medications
Hormonal therapy: Birth control pills or hormone-releasing IUDs can help manage heavy bleeding.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists: Shrink fibroids by lowering estrogen, but are typically used short-term due to side effects.
Non-hormonal medications: NSAIDs or tranexamic acid for pain and bleeding control.
3. Non-Surgical Procedures
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): Blocks blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink
MRI-guided focused ultrasound: Destroys fibroid tissue using high-frequency sound waves.
4. Surgical Treatments
Myomectomy: Surgical removal of fibroids, preserving the uterus. Ideal for women who want to retain fertility.
Hysterectomy: Complete removal of the uterus. A definitive solution, but ends childbearing.
Lifestyle & Natural Remedies
While lifestyle changes can't cure fibroids, they can support overall hormonal balance and symptom relief:
Maintain a healthy weight
Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Reduce red meat and alcohol intake
Exercise regularly
Manage stress, which can impact hormonal health
Some women explore herbal remedies or acupuncture, though you should always consult a healthcare provider before trying alternative treatments.
Living with Fibroids: What to Expect
Living with fibroids can be manageable with the right care. Many women go years without knowing they have them, while others may require treatment to improve quality of life or enhance fertility.
It's important to:
Track your menstrual cycle and symptoms
Communicate openly with your healthcare provider
Get regular checkups if you’ve been diagnosed
Fibroids are not cancerous, and the risk of them turning into cancer (leiomyosarcoma) is extremely rare. However, they can mimic symptoms of more serious conditions, so proper evaluation is crucial.
When to See a Doctor
You should consult a doctor if you experience:
Heavy or painful periods
Prolonged bleeding (more than 7 days)
Pelvic pain or pressure
Difficulty urinating or bowel movements
Trouble conceiving
The earlier you address symptoms, the more treatment options you may have.
Conclusion: Know Your Body, Know Your Options
Uterine fibroids are incredibly common, affecting up to 70–80% of women by age 50. While they can be challenging, they are treatable. From mild lifestyle changes to advanced surgical options, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Understanding your body and working with a healthcare professional can help you find the right solution for your specific situation.
Whether you're managing symptoms or exploring your fertility journey, being informed is the first step toward empowerment.
Looking for more advice on women’s health? Take a peek at the latest stories on CODDLE’s blog for plenty of helpful articles.on postpartum, pregnancy, breastfeeding and parenting.