Can fibroids become cancerous?

Uterine fibroids are almost always benign. Cancerous fibroids, called leiomyosarcomas, are extremely rare, occurring in less than 1 in 1,000 cases.

Do fibroids affect fertility?

Most fibroids do not affect fertility, but submucosal fibroids that distort the uterine cavity can interfere with implantation and increase miscarriage risk. Removal of these fibroids may improve fertility outcomes.

Do fibroids shrink after menopause?

Yes, fibroids typically shrink after menopause due to the decline in estrogen and progesterone. Many women find that their fibroid symptoms resolve naturally after menopause.

ReproductiveICD-10: D25Affect up to 80% of women by age 50, with symptoms in about 25-30%

Uterine Fibroids

Also known as: Leiomyomas, Myomas, Fibromas

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. They range in size from tiny seedlings to large masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. While many women have fibroids without symptoms, others experience heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and reproductive complications.

Symptoms

Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods

Pelvic pain or pressure

Frequent urination

Difficulty emptying the bladder

Constipation

Backache or leg pain

Enlarged abdomen

Pain during sexual intercourse

Causes

Genetic changes in uterine muscle cells
Hormonal influence from estrogen and progesterone
Growth factors affecting fibroid development
Extracellular matrix changes making cells more fibrous

Risk Factors

African American descent with higher prevalence and severity
Family history of fibroids
Age, with increased risk from the 30s to menopause
Obesity
Early onset of menstruation
Diet high in red meat and low in green vegetables

Diagnosis

Pelvic examination detecting uterine irregularities
Transvaginal ultrasound for imaging
MRI for detailed mapping of fibroids
Hysteroscopy to examine the uterine cavity
Saline infusion sonography for submucosal fibroids

Treatment

Watchful waiting for asymptomatic fibroids
Hormonal medications including GnRH agonists to shrink fibroids
IUD releasing progestin for heavy bleeding
Uterine artery embolization to cut off blood supply
Myomectomy to surgically remove fibroids while preserving the uterus
Hysterectomy as a definitive treatment for severe cases

Prevention

No proven prevention methods
Maintaining a healthy weight may lower risk
Regular gynecological exams for early detection

When to See a Doctor

Menstrual periods that are excessively heavy or painful
Pelvic pain that does not go away
Spotting or bleeding between periods
Difficulty emptying the bladder or frequent urination

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Endometriosis

Reproductive

Anemia

Metabolic

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