| Fibroids are smooth muscle tumors that develop in the wall of the uterus. These benign non-cancerous tumors are very common in women age 35 and older. Fibroids are especially common in African American women where they tend to be more symptomatic. It is not uncommon for women to have more than one fibroid. Fibroids can range in size from as small as a quarter to as large or larger than a cantaloupe. While most fibroids are asymptomatic, the size and location of some fibroids may cause symptoms such as pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, bloating, urinary frequency and constipation.
There are three types of fibroids based on location within the uterus.
Subserosal fibroids develop under the outside covering of the uterus. They grow or expand outward giving the uterus a lumpy-bumpy appearance. These fibroids tend to cause more bulk symptoms and do not typically affect menstrual flow.
Intramural fibroids develop within the wall of the uterus. These are the most common fibroids encountered. Intramural fibroids cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain and bulk symptoms.
Submucosal fibroids develop just under the inside lining of the uterus. Although submucosal fibroids are the least common, they tend to cause the most problems. Even a very small submucosal fibroid can cause prolonged menstrual periods with very heavy bleeding.
|
