What Are Uterine Fibroids?
You’ve probably wondered why your periods have suddenly become heavier, more painful, or more prolonged. Maybe you’re feeling constant pressure in your lower abdomen or struggling with unexplained bloating. These aren’t just annoying inconveniences; they could be signs of uterine fibroids, a condition that affects up to 80% of women by age 50.
So, what are uterine fibroids? In simple terms, uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that grow in or around the uterus. They can be tiny or grow to the size of a melon, and while some cause no symptoms at all, others can disrupt your quality of life. These growths are made up of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue.
Fibroids can vary in size and number. You might have just one, or you could have multiple fibroids of different sizes. They can remain the same over time, grow slowly, or even rapidly. Some women never know they have fibroids, while others experience debilitating symptoms.
How Do Uterine Fibroids Develop?
Fibroids develop from a single smooth muscle cell in the uterus that multiplies and forms a firm mass. The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but hormones like estrogen and progesterone play a major role in their growth and development. These hormones help regulate the menstrual cycle and also encourage fibroid growth.
Several factors contribute to their development:
- Hormonal imbalances, especially higher levels of estrogen
- Genetic factors: fibroids often run in families
- Race and ethnicity: Black women are more likely to develop fibroids and at an earlier age
- Lifestyle and diet, including obesity and high red meat consumption
Once fibroids form, they tend to grow during reproductive years and often shrink after menopause due to declining hormone levels.
Where Can Uterine Fibroids Grow?
Fibroids aren’t one-size-fits-all. They can develop in different parts of the uterus, and their location can affect the type and severity of symptoms you experience.
Here’s where fibroids in the uterus can grow:
- Intramural fibroids: Develop within the muscular wall of the uterus. These are the most common types and often cause pelvic pain or heavy periods.
- Submucosal fibroids: Grow just beneath the uterine lining and can extend into the uterine cavity. These often cause severe bleeding and fertility issues.
- Subserosal fibroids: Form on the outside of the uterus and may press against other organs, causing back pain or frequent urination.
- Pedunculated fibroids: Attached to the uterus by a stalk-like growth. These can grow inside or outside the uterus and may twist, causing sudden sharp pain.
- Outside the uterus: In some cases, fibroids may even grow beyond the uterus and affect the nearby organs, such as the bladder or rectum.
What Are Common Uterine Fibroid Symptoms?
Some fibroids don’t cause any issues at all. But when symptoms do occur, they can be disruptive, and sometimes even alarming. The severity depends on the size, number, and location of the fibroids. If you’ve been dealing with ongoing pelvic discomfort or heavy periods, it might be time to pay attention. So, what are the common fibroids symptoms?
Here are a few key signs to look out for:
- Feeling of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen
- Heavy, prolonged, or painful menstrual bleeding
- Frequent urination or trouble emptying the bladder
- Constipation or pain during bowel movements
- Painful sex or pelvic discomfort during intercourse
- Back pain or leg pain (if fibroids press on nerves)
- Fatigue due to anemia from blood loss
- Difficulty getting or staying pregnant
What Is the Best Treatment for Fibroids in the Uterus?
When it comes to treating fibroids, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Treatment depends on your symptoms, age, fertility goals, and the extent to which the fibroids are impacting your life. Many women want to avoid surgery or the loss of their uterus, and that’s where we come in.
At Fibroid Pain Center, our preferred solution is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), a non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment that preserves your uterus while effectively shrinking fibroids. UFE works by blocking the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and symptoms to improve over time.
Here’s why UFE is often the best option:
- No general anesthesia or large incisions
- Outpatient procedure with same-day discharge
- Minimal downtime—most women return to normal activities within a week
- High success rate for reducing symptoms like heavy bleeding, pain, and pressure
- Preserves your uterus, which is critical for many women
In comparison to hysterectomy or myomectomy, UFE is far less invasive and has a quicker recovery time. That’s why more women are turning to Fibroid Pain Center for this cutting-edge solution. Learn about our fibroid treatments to explore if UFE is right for you.
Don’t Ignore Your Fibroids
Fibroids might be common, but they shouldn’t be ignored, especially if they’re affecting your quality of life. From abnormal bleeding to pelvic pressure, the symptoms can be frustrating, painful, and even affect your fertility.
At Fibroid Pain Center, we’re dedicated to providing personalized, uterus-sparing care using the latest minimally invasive treatments, such as UFE. We encourage you to schedule a consultation and explore your uterine fibroid treatment options. Learn about our fibroid center to discover why women across New Jersey trust us for expert care.
FAQs
Can Fibroids Turn Into Cancer?
No, fibroids are almost always benign and non-cancerous. In extremely rare cases, a cancerous tumor called leiomyosarcoma may develop, but this is not believed to originate from an existing fibroid. You don’t need to worry about fibroids becoming cancerous.
Will Fibroids Go Away On Their Own?
Sometimes. Fibroids often shrink after menopause when hormone levels naturally decline. However, if you’re still in your reproductive years and experiencing symptoms, fibroids are unlikely to disappear without treatment.
Can You Get Pregnant If You Have Fibroids?
Yes, many women with fibroids conceive and carry healthy pregnancies. That said, certain fibroids, especially those inside the uterine cavity, can interfere with fertility or increase the risk of miscarriage. If pregnancy is a goal, it’s advisable to consult a fibroid specialist.
Do All Fibroids Need Treatment?
Not necessarily. If your fibroids aren’t causing pain, pressure, or heavy bleeding, you may not need immediate treatment. But if your symptoms are affecting your daily life, it’s worth exploring minimally invasive fibroid treatments like UFE to avoid surgery.
