General Information About Uterine Fibroids
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
They are firm, rounded masses of tissue (tumors) formed by the abnormal growth of smooth muscle cells making up the uterine wall, with sizes varying from a small pea to a large melon.
NO. Uterine fibroids are completely benign in 99.5% of cases. The probability of fibroids transforming into cancer (sarcoma) is extremely negligible. The presence of fibroids in a woman does not increase her risk of uterine cancer.
One in three women of reproductive age (between 30-40 years old) has fibroids. Although the exact cause is unknown, fibroids grow by feeding on Estrogen and Progesterone (female) hormones. Consequently, they grow rapidly during pregnancy, while they spontaneously shrink and regress after menopause when hormone levels drop.
Most small fibroids do not cause any symptoms. However, if a fibroid grows toward the uterine cavity, it causes excessively heavy and clotted menstrual bleeding, menstrual periods exceeding 10 days, and subsequent severe anemia. If it grows outward to a massive size, it causes a constant urge to urinate by compressing the bladder, constipation by compressing the bowel, or severe pressure/pain in the pelvis.
It depends on the location of the fibroid. Fibroids on the outer wall of the uterus do not interfere with pregnancy. However, if a fibroid grows directly into the uterine cavity where the fetus implants (Submucosal myoma), it prevents embryo implantation (causes infertility) or may cause recurrent miscarriages or preterm labor.
Small fibroids that do not cause symptoms are monitored solely with annual ultrasounds.
Medical Treatment: Oral contraceptives or hormonal intrauterine devices (Mirena) can be utilized to reduce bleeding.
Surgery (Myomectomy): If the fibroid is growing rapidly, causing severe anemia due to bleeding, or preventing pregnancy, surgery is mandatory. Mostly, through minimally invasive methods (Laparoscopy or Hysteroskopy), only the fibroids are removed while preserving the uterus. In advanced age patients who do not desire future childbearing and whose fibroids completely fill the uterus, a total hysterectomy may be performed.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
