Uterine fibroids are benign (not cancer) growths that develop from the muscle tissue of the uterus. They also are called leiomyomas or myomas. The size, shape, and location of fibroids can vary greatly. They may be present inside the uterus, on its outer surface or within its wall, or attached to it by a stem-like structure. A woman may have only one fibroid or many of varying sizes. A fibroid may remain very small for a long time and suddenly grow rapidly, or grow slowly over a number of years.

Fibroids are most common in women aged 30–40 years, but they can occur at any age. Fibroids occur more often in African American women than in white women. They also seem to occur at a younger age and grow more quickly in African American women.

• Fibroids may have the following symptoms:
  • Changes in menstruation
    • Longer, more frequent, or heavy menstrual periods
    • Menstrual pain (cramps)
    • Vaginal bleeding at times other than menstruation
    • Anemia (from blood loss)
  • Pain
    • In the abdomen or lower back (often dull, heavy and aching, but may be sharp)
    • During sex Pressure
    • Difficulty urinating or frequent urination
    • Constipation, rectal pain, or difficult bowel movements
    • Abdominal cramps
  • Enlarged uterus and abdomen
  • Miscarriages
  • Infertility
  • Fibroids also may cause no symptoms at all. Fibroids may be found during a routine pelvic exam or during tests for other problems.

Fibroids that do not cause symptoms, are small, or occur in a woman who is nearing menopause often do not require treatment.

If you find yourself answering “that is me” to the above you should seek consultation from a urogynecology who specializing the treatment of Female Pelvic Disorders.