Understanding Uterine Fibroids: Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Treatment Options

Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas/myomas) are noncancerous growths in the uterine muscular wall. Very common—up to 80% of women develop them—but most are small and asymptomatic. Only 20–50% experience problems.

Symptoms

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Frequent urination
• Constipation
• Backache
• Leg pain
• Infertility
• Miscarriage

Risk Factors

• Age: most common 30–50
• Race: African-American women at higher risk
• Family history
• Obesity
• Certain conditions: diabetes, hypertension, thyroid problems

Treatment

Depends on symptom severity:

• Mild: May need no treatment.
• Moderate/severe:
  • Medication to shrink fibroids
  • Surgery to remove fibroids
  • Uterine artery embolization (UAE): minimally invasive, blocks blood supply
  • MRI-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS): non-invasive, destroys fibroids with ultrasound

If experiencing symptoms, see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.