What Are Uterine Fibroids & How Do They Affect Women?

Uterine fibroids are one of the most common reproductive health conditions affecting women, yet many don’t fully understand what they are or how they can impact everyday life. These non-cancerous growths can vary in size, shape, and location—and their effects range from mild to life-altering.

In this article, we’ll cover what uterine fibroids are, the different types of fibroids, common fibroid symptoms, and how they’re diagnosed. If you’re experiencing heavy periods, pelvic pain, or fertility concerns, this comprehensive overview will help you better understand what might be happening inside your body—and when to seek help.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids—also known as leiomyomas or myomas—are benign tumors that grow within or on the uterus. They are made of smooth muscle tissue and can vary in size from as small as a pea to as large as a melon. While fibroids are non-cancerous, their presence can still lead to significant discomfort and medical issues for some women.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), up to 70% of women will develop fibroids by the age of 50. However, many may never experience noticeable symptoms.

What Causes Fibroids?

The exact cause of fibroids remains unknown, but several factors may increase your risk:

Hormonal factors: Estrogen and progesterone seem to promote fibroid growth
Genetics: A family history of fibroids increases your likelihood
Age: Most common during reproductive years (30s to early 50s)
Race: African American women are more likely to develop fibroids and may experience more severe symptoms
Lifestyle: Obesity, high blood pressure, and diet may play a role

Though fibroids are common, not all women will develop symptoms. For those who do, the effects can significantly disrupt daily life.

Types of Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids are classified based on where they grow in or around the uterus. The three main types include:

1. Submucosal Fibroids

These grow just underneath the uterine lining and may protrude into the uterine cavity. Even small submucosal fibroids can cause heavy menstrual bleeding and fertility issues.

2. Intramural Fibroids

Located within the muscular wall of the uterus, intramural fibroids are the most common type. They can enlarge the uterus and lead to pelvic pain, bloating, and menstrual problems.

3. Subserosal Fibroids

These grow on the outer wall of the uterus and may extend outward. Subserosal fibroids typically cause pressure-related symptoms such as frequent urination or back pain.

Other rare types include pedunculated fibroids, which grow on stalks inside or outside the uterus.

Common Symptoms of Fibroids

Not all women with fibroids experience symptoms. When they do occur, they may include:

Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
Pelvic pain or pressure
Bloating or abdominal fullness
Pain during intercourse
Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
Constipation
Lower back pain
Infertility or complications during pregnancy

The size and location of the fibroids often influence the severity of these symptoms.

How Are Fibroids Diagnosed?

If you’re experiencing symptoms that could be related to fibroids, your healthcare provider may recommend one or more diagnostic tests, including:

Pelvic Exam: A basic first step that may reveal an enlarged or irregular uterus
Ultrasound: Transabdominal or transvaginal imaging to detect and measure fibroids
MRI: Offers detailed imaging for treatment planning
Sonohysterography: Uses saline solution and ultrasound to visualize the uterine cavity
Hysteroscopy: A small camera inserted through the cervix to inspect the uterus directly

At Preferred Fibroid, we use advanced diagnostic tools to provide a clear understanding of your condition and guide you toward the most effective treatment.

How Do Fibroids Affect Daily Life?

For some women, fibroids are little more than a minor inconvenience. For others, they cause significant physical, emotional, and social disruptions.

Fibroids can affect your:

Work: Excessive bleeding and fatigue can cause missed days
Intimacy: Pain or discomfort can strain personal relationships
Fertility: Fibroids may impact the ability to conceive or carry a pregnancy
Mental health: Chronic pain and anxiety about symptoms can lead to stress and depression

Understanding and managing fibroids is essential for improving quality of life—and ensuring long-term reproductive health.

What Are the Treatment Options?

While some fibroids require no treatment at all, others may need medical or surgical intervention. Treatment depends on the size, location, symptoms, and your reproductive goals.

Common fibroid treatments include:

Watchful waiting for small, symptom-free fibroids
Medications to manage bleeding or shrink fibroids temporarily
Minimally invasive procedures like Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
Surgical options such as myomectomy or hysterectomy for severe cases

To learn more about your treatment options, page or speak with one of our fibroid specialists today.

When Should You See a Specialist?

You should consult a fibroid specialist if you experience:

Heavy periods lasting longer than 7 days
Pelvic pain that doesn’t go away
Difficulty getting pregnant
A noticeable abdominal mass or swelling
Fatigue from anemia caused by blood loss

At Preferred Fibroid, we offer individualized care for every woman—whether you’re just beginning your fibroid journey or seeking relief after years of symptoms.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

Fibroids are common—but you don’t have to suffer in silence. Whether you’re struggling with heavy periods, pelvic pain, or fertility concerns, there are effective options available.

At Preferred Fibroid Center, we’re here to help you take control of your health with compassionate, personalized care.

Schedule your consultation to learn more about your diagnosis and treatment options

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Are uterine fibroids cancerous?
No. Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous (benign) growths. Less than 1% turn into cancer.

Q2: Can fibroids go away on their own?
Some fibroids shrink after menopause, but most do not go away without treatment.

Q3: Will fibroids affect my chances of getting pregnant?
It depends on the size and location. Some fibroids can interfere with fertility or pregnancy, but many women with fibroids conceive and deliver healthy babies.

Q4: What’s the difference between fibroids and polyps?
Fibroids are muscle-based growths, while polyps are made of endometrial tissue. Both can cause bleeding, but they require different treatment approaches.

Q5: How long does recovery take after fibroid treatment?
Recovery varies by treatment type. Minimally invasive options like UFE typically offer quicker recovery than traditional surgery.