Uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas or fibroids, are benign smooth muscle tumors of the uterus. Most women have no symptoms while others may have painful or heavy periods. If large enough, they may push on the bladder causing a frequent need to urinate. They may also cause pain during sex or lower back pain. A woman can have one uterine fibroid or many. Occasionally, fibroids may make it difficult to become pregnant, although this is uncommon.

Signs and symptoms

In more than 99% of fibroid cases, the tumors are benign (non-cancerous). These tumors are not associated with cancer and do not increase a woman's risk for uterine cancer. They may range in size, from the size of a pea to the size of a softball or small grapefruit.

Causes

The exact cause of uterine fibroids is unclear. However, it is believed that each tumor develops from an aberrant muscle cell in the uterus, which multiplies rapidly because of the influence of estrogen.

Diagnosis

Doctors use your medical history, a physical exam, and tests to diagnose uterine fibroids. They may palpate for irregular or enlarged uterus, or feel it during a routine pelvic exam.

Treatment

Treatment options include surgery, medication, and embolization. The best course of treatment depends on the patient's age, the size of the fibroids, and the overall health of the woman.

See also

• Leiomyoma
• Uterus
• Estrogen

References

Uterine fibroids Resources
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