Fibroids of the Uterus: Their Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment:
This guide was written as a straightforward educational tool for women.
3.Types Of Uterine Fibroids:
Symptoms associated with fibroids can vary based on their number, size and location. Women with fibroids may experience:
There are many treatment options available for women with uterine fibroids. Each treatment option has its own risks and benefits, so it is best to discuss all options with your health care provider.
This guide was written as a straightforward educational tool for women.
Latest Version: March 12, 2026
Written by: Dr Humaira Latif
MBBS, KMU Peshawar
Certified Medical Practitioner
Gynae/Obstetric Specialist with over 14 years’ experience working with Women’s Health.
Disclaimer:
This article does not provide any information to replace doctor’s professional medical evaluation, diagnosis or treatment. Individuals will experience their health conditions differently. You should contact your healthcare provider for your own private medical advice.
What is a Fibroid Uterus?
Fibroids are benign [non-cancerous] tumours that exist either in or around the uterus that comprise of smooth muscle tissue and fibrous tissue, these tumours are also known as uterine fibroids or leiomyoma.
Uterine fibroids are very common in women during their reproductive years, most women do not experience any obvious signs and symptoms. In some cases, the presence of fibroids can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding or pelvic pressure or frequent urination.
The earlier a woman knows about the existence of fibroids, the sooner she will be able to confer with her doctor for a medical exam and to learn what options are available for treatment.
Overview of Article:
- What is a fibroid uterus?
- How common are uterine fibroids?
- Types of uterine fibroids
- Causes of fibroid uterus
- Risk factors for fibroid development
- Symptoms of a fibroid uterus
- Signs requiring medical attention of their presence.
- Possible Complications
- Diagnosis of Fibroid Uterus
- Treatment Options for Fibroids
- Lifestyle Tips for Uterine Health
- Prevention Strategies
- When to See a Doctor
- Related Articles
- Frequently Asked Questions.
- References
2. How Common Are Uterine Fibroids:
The incidence of fibroids is particularly high in African American women and are often diagnosed in women ages 30 - 40 years old.
The following are the main types of fibroids.
1. Intramural Fibroids
2. Submucosal Fibroids
3. Subserosal Fibroids
4. Pedunculated Fibroids
1. Intramural Fibroids:
These types of fibroids are the most common and grow within the musculature of the uterus.
Examples of the effects of Intramural
Fibroids may include the following:
- Enlarged Uterus
- Heavy Menstrual Bleeding.
- Feelings of pressure in the Pelvic Region
2. Submucosal Fibroids:
These types of fibroids will grow into the inner cavity of the uterus and can cause significant effects even at a very small size. Examples of possible effects of Submucosal Fibroids may include:
- Heavy Menstrual Flow
- Irregular Bleeding
- Infertility Problems
3. Subserosal Fibroids:
Subserosal fibroids grow on the outside of the body (surface) of the uterus and apply pressure to the surrounding organs. Examples of possible symptoms of Subserosal Fibroids may include:
- Pressure in the Pelvic Region
- Fullness in the Abdomen
- Frequent Urination
4.Pedunculated Fibroids:
Are fibroids that grow on a narrow stalk that is attached to the uterus.
Pedunculated fibroids can also grow on either side of the uterus (inside and outside).
Examples of possible symptoms of Pedunculated Fibroids may include:
Discomfort in the Pelvic Region
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4.Causes of a Fibroid Uterus:
Researchers do not fully comprehend the reason why fibroids form. Several biological factors are thought to be responsible for their formation. Fibroids usually originate from a single muscle cell that begins to multiply rapidly.
- Hormones released in the reproductive years may affect the growth of fibroids.
- A genetic predisposition to fibroids could also be a contributing factor in some females.
- Scientists continue to investigate these contributing factors, in an effort to gain insight into how fibroids are formed.
- Potential Contributing Factors
- Hormones - estrogen or progesterone
- Genetic predisposition
- Changes to uterine muscle cells
- Growth factors in other tissues of the body
5. Risk Factors for Fibroids:
Certain factors that increase the possibility of developing fibroids. These risk factors do not guarantee that you will develop fibroids, but rather increase the likelihood that you develop fibroids.
Risk levels may be impacted by lifestyle habits, hormones, and family history.
Being aware of these risk factors can support your efforts at preventive healthcare.
General Risk Factors Include:
- History of family with fibroids
- Onset of menses before age 12
- Overweight or obese individuals
- Low vitamin D level
- High red meat consumption
- Low intake of fruits/vegetables
6. Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids:
Symptoms associated with fibroids can vary based on their number, size and location. Women with fibroids may experience:
- Heavy bleeding during menstruation
- Long or heavy periods
- Abdominal swelling and/or pressure
- Pain or discomfort in the lower stomach area
- Constipation
- Frequent urination
- Difficulty emptying the bladder
- Pain during intercourse
- Back pain
It can be difficult for women to determine if their symptoms are due to a fibroid; therefore it is important for them to see a doctor if they are concerned.
7. Symptoms That Require Medical Evaluation:
While many fibroids are benign, several symptoms should be closely monitored and brought to the attention of a licensed healthcare provider.
When a woman has ongoing changes in her menstrual cycle and/or pelvic pain or discomfort, it is appropriate to discuss these symptoms with her healthcare provider.
An early medical evaluation allows the clinician to determine if there are fibroids (and if so, how many) and to ensure that there is nothing else causing the symptoms.
Symptoms That Require Evaluation:
- Very heavy menstrual bleeding
- Bleeding between menstrual cycles
- Pelvic pain that does not go away
- Sudden change (increase) in abdominal size
- Difficulties conceiving
8.Complications That May Occur:
An overwhelming majority of fibroids can be controlled very well and will not create any major health concerns. While large and/or numerous fibroids can occasionally create issues, fibroids are still manageable.
Regular checkups by your physician offer the opportunity for early detection of problems and can help your physician in making treatment decisions.
Some Potential Complications Include:
- Iron Deficiency Anemia
- Infertility
- Pregnancy issues
- Signs of Pressure Against Nearby Organs
- Pregnancy Period Considerations
9. Diagnosis of Uterine Fibroids:
The diagnosis of fibroids usually starts with a medical history and pelvic examination. Imaging studies are then used to confirm the presence of fibroids.
Modern diagnostic methods allow practitioners to determine the size and location of fibroids with great precision.
Typical diagnostic techniques used for diagnosing uterine fibroids include:
- Pelvic examination
- Ultrasound examination
- MRI when necessary
- Hysteroscopy
The Use of Ultrasound:
Because ultrasound is a very safe and reliable technique for identifying uterine fibroids, it is commonly used. Ultrasound identifies the following characteristics of fibroids:
- Size of fibroids.
- Number of fibroids
- Precise location in the uterus
1.Pelvic Examination:
If a doctor suspects a patient has uterine fibroids, he or she will evaluate her medical history.
Physical examination including questionnaire about her symptoms, and perform a pelvic examination.
2.Ultrasound Examination:
Ultrasound (an imaging test that uses sound waves) is often used to visualize and confirm the diagnosis of a uterine fibroid.
Ultrasound identifies the following characteristics of fibroids:
- Size of fibroids.
- Number of fibroids
- Precise location in the uterus
Other imaging tests used for this purpose include
3.MRI when necessary.
Modern diagnostic methods allow practitioners to determine the size and location of fibroids with great precision.
4.Hysteroscopy.
10. Treatment and Management of Uterine Fibroids:
Typically, doctors will provide treatment recommendations based on the severity of the symptoms and the personal preferences of the patient.
Available treatment modalities include:
- Monitoring with observation.
- Medication treatment.
- Minimally invasive procedure; or
- Surgical treatment huh if warranted.
Some of the treatment options available to women with uterine fibroids include:
1.Medication
2.Surgery
3.Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE)
4.MRI-guided Focused Ultrasound (MRI-gFUS)
11.Complications That May Occur:
An overwhelming majority of fibroids can be controlled very well and will not create any major health concerns. While large and/or numerous fibroids can occasionally create issues, fibroids are still manageable.
Regular checkups by your physician offer the opportunity for early detection of problems and can help your physician in making treatment decisions.
Some Potential Complications Include:
- Iron Deficiency Anemia
- Infertility
- Pregnancy issues
- Signs of Pressure Against Nearby Organs
- Pregnancy Period Considerations
12. Tips for Improving Uterine Health through Your Lifestyle:
A good lifestyle can lead to better overall health for you and your ability to reproduce. Making changes in your lifestyle may not guarantee that you will not develop fibroids, however they can help to keep your hormones in balance.
Eating a healthy diet and being active contribute to your overall health and can help to reduce your risk of developing fibroids.
- Healthy Living Habits
- Eat a variety of foods from all food groups
- Eat plenty of fruits & vegetables
- Get regular exercise
- Keep a healthy weight
- Get enough vitamin D12. How to Prevent Fibroids
13.Prevention strategies:
There is no way to completely avoid the development of fibroids; however, by adopting healthy habits, you can improve your overall health and maintain your hormones in balance.
Having regular checkups with your doctor is helpful for identifying fibroids at an early stage.
Ways to Prevent Fibroids
- Eating a healthy diet
- Being physically active
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Having regular gynecological checkups
14. When to Contact Your Doctor:
Women should speak with their healthcare provider about any symptoms that impact their daily life. Early evaluation by a doctor can help develop appropriate medical treatment.
Obtaining timely medical attention will also help your doctor rule out other gynecological conditions.
Contact your healthcare provider if you are experiencing the following symptoms
- Heavy periods
- Pressure in your pelvic area
- Rapid growth of your abdomen
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Related Women’s Health Articles
15.You may also find these educational resources helpful:
16.Freqiently Asked Questions:
Q: What are Uterine Fibroids?
A: Uterine fibroids are benign tumors (non-cancerous) that occur in the muscular layer of the uterus. These tumors, called leiomyomas, are common among women during their reproductive years. While many women do have uterine fibroids, they may not always know since most women with uterine fibroids experience no symptoms. However, some women will experience some symptoms related to their uterine fibroids (i.e. heavy/irregular menstrual bleeding & pelvic pressure).
Q: Are Uterine Fibroids Dangerous?
A: Most of the time fibroids are not considered dangerous because they are benign tumors. They typically grow slowly, but they can cause symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pressure in the pelvic area and compression of other nearby organs. A medical professional will monitor the effect(s) and size of fibroids through regular medical evaluations/assessments.
Q: What Causes Uterine Fibroids To Develop?
A: The specific cause of uterine fibroids is still being determined. However, research has established there may be multiple contributing etiologies such as various hormones, genetic predisposition and changes in the muscle cells of the uterus. In general, hormones including estrogen and progesterone appear to influence the development of fibroids.
Q: What Are The Most Common Symptoms Associated With Uterine Fibroids?
A: The symptoms of fibroids will be determined by their location and size. The vast majority of women will, however, exhibit very mild to no symptoms
AUTHORS NOTE:
Dr. Humaira Latif (MBBS,RMP).
Obstetrician/Gynaecologist
14 plus years of Experience in field of medicine and clinical field.
17.References:
1. Mayo Clinic:
Article: Uterine Fibroids – Symptoms and Causes
Publisher: Mayo Clinic
Last Updated: September 15, 2023
Link:
2. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG):
Article: Uterine Fibroids – Frequently Asked Questions
Publisher: ACOG Women’s Health
Published: 2021 (regularly updated clinical guidance)
Link:
3. Office on Women’s Health – U.S. Department of Health:
Article: Uterine Fibroids
Publisher: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Last Updated: January 2023
Link:
4. National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Article: Uterine Fibroids Research Overview
Publisher: National Institutes of Health
Published: 2024
Link:
5. Cleveland Clinic
Article: Uterine Fibroids: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Publisher: Cleveland Clinic
Updated: April 2024
Link:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9130-uterine-fibroids
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