Fibroids

Different fibroids develop in different locations in and on the uterus.

Intramural Fibroids

These types appear within the lining of the uterus (endometrium). Intramural fibroids may grow larger and actually stretch your womb. According to the U.S. Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health, they are the most common type of fibroid and are found in about 70 percent of women of childbearing age

Subserosal Fibroids

Subserosal fibroids form on the outside of your uterus, which is called the serosa. They may grow large enough to make your womb appear bigger on one side.

Pedunculated Fibroids

When subserosal tumors develop a stem (a slender base that supports the tumor), they become pedunculated fibroids.

Submucosal Fibroids

These types of tumors develop in the inner lining (myometrium) of your uterus. Submucosal tumors are not as common as other types, but when they do develop, they may cause heavy menstrual bleeding and trouble conceiving.

Part 3 of 8: Causes

What Causes Fibroids?

It is unclear why fibroids develop, but several factors may influence their formation.

Hormones

Estrogen and progesterone are the hormones produced by the ovaries. They cause the uterine lining to regenerate during each menstrual cycle and may stimulate the growth of fibroids.

Family History

Fibroids may run in the family. If your mother, sister, or grandmother has a history of this condition, you may develop it as well.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy increases the production of estrogen and progesterone in your body. Fibroids may develop and grow rapidly while you are pregnant.

Part 4 of 8: Risk Factors

Who Is at Risk for Fibroids?

Women are at greater risk for developing fibroids if they have one or more of the following risk factors:

• pregnancy
• a family history of fibroids
• being over the age of 30
• being of African American descent
• having a high body weight

Part 5 of 8: Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms of Fibroids?

Your symptoms will depend on the location and size of the tumor(s) and how many tumors you have. If your tumor is very small, or if you are going through menopause, you may not have any symptoms. Fibroids may shrink during and after menopause.
Symptoms of fibroids may include:

• heavy bleeding between or during your periods that includes blood clots
• pain in the pelvis and/or lower back
• increased menstrual cramping
• increased urination
• pain during intercourse
• menstruation that lasts longer than usual
• pressure or fullness in your lower abdomen
• swelling or enlargement of the abdomen

Part 6 of 8: Diagnosis

How Are Fibroids Diagnosed?

You will need to see a gynecologist, who will do a pelvic exam. This exam is used to check the condition, size, and shape of your uterus. You may also need other tests:

Ultrasound

An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of your uterus on a screen. This will allow your doctor to see its internal structures and any fibroids present. A transvaginal ultrasound, in which the ultrasound wand (transducer) is inserted into the vagina, may provide clearer pictures since it is closer to the uterus during this procedure.

Pelvic MRI

This in-depth imaging testing produces pictures of your uterus, ovaries, and other pelvic organs.

Part 7 of 8: Treatment

How Are Fibroids Treated?

Your doctor will develop a treatment plan based on your age, the size of your fibroid(s), and your overall health. You may receive a combination of treatments.

Medications

Medications to regulate your hormone levels may be prescribed to shrink fibroids. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, such as leuprolide (Lupron), will cause your estrogen and progesterone levels to drop, stopping menstruation and shrinking fibroids.
An intrauterine device (IUD) that releases the hormone progestin, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain relievers, such as ibuprophen, and birth control pills can help control bleeding and pain caused by fibroids, but will not shrink or eliminate them.

Surgery

Surgery to remove very large or multiple growths (myomectomy) may be performed. An abdominal myomectomy involves making a large incision in the abdomen to access the uterus and remove the fibroids. The surgery can also be performed laparoscopically, using a few small incisions into which surgical tools and a camera are inserted.
Your physician may perform a hysterectomy (removal of your uterus) if your condition worsens, or if no other treatments work. However, this means that you will not be able to bear children in the future.

Minimally-Invasive Procedures

A newer and completely non-invasive surgical procedure is forced ultrasound surgery (FUS). You will lie down inside a special MRI machine that allows doctors to visualize the inside of your uterus. High-energy, high-frequency sound waves will be directed at the fibroids to destroy (ablate) them.
Similarly, myolysis shrinks fibroids using an electric current or laser, while cryomyolysis freezes the fibroids. Endometrial ablation involves inserting a special instrument into your uterus to destroy the uterine lining using heat, electric current, hot water, or microwaves.

Part 8 of 8: Outlook

What Can Be Expected in the Long-Term?

Your prognosis will depend on the size and location of your fibroids. Fibroids may not need treatment if they are small or do not produce symptoms. If you are pregnant and have fibroids, or become pregnant and have fibroids, your physician will carefully monitor your condition. In most cases, fibroids do not cause problems during pregnancy. Speak with your doctor if you expect to become pregnant and have fibroids.