Hearing the phrase "you have a fibroid in your uterus" during a check-up can be alarming at first. However, fibroids are quite common in women of reproductive age, and the vast majority of them are benign formations. Most of the time, they do not cause any symptoms and persist without creating a problem.
In this guide, we calmly explain what fibroids are, why they occur, what symptoms they can cause, and when to consult a specialist. Our goal is not to make you anxious, but to help you feel more at ease with accurate information.
⚡ Quick Summary
- Fibroid is a growth in the uterine muscle, the vast majority of which are benign.
- Most fibroids are asymptomatic and are discovered incidentally during routine check-ups.
- When symptomatic, the most common are: heavy/prolonged menstrual bleeding, pressure in the back and pelvis, and frequent urination.
- Treatment is personalized based on the fibroid's size, location, and symptoms; not all fibroids require intervention.
What is a Fibroid?
A fibroid is a tissue growth that develops from the muscle layer of the uterus. It is also referred to as "leiomyoma" or "fibroid" in medical terms. Its size can range from a few millimeters to, rarely, several centimeters; the number can also be single or multiple.
It is important to state immediately: the vast majority of fibroids are benign and have a very low chance of turning into cancer. Therefore, finding a fibroid does not automatically mean surgery or a serious illness.
Types of Fibroids
Fibroids are named according to their location on the uterine wall. This location also affects the symptoms they cause.
| Type | Location | Common Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Intramural | Within the uterine muscle wall | Most common type; can increase bleeding |
| Subserosal | On the outer surface of the uterus | Can cause pressure and a feeling of fullness |
| Submucosal | Close to the uterine cavity | Most likely type to affect bleeding and pregnancy |
| Pedunculated | Attached to the uterus by a stalk | Can sometimes cause pain |
Why Do They Occur?
Although the exact cause of fibroids is not fully known, hormones (especially estrogen and progesterone) are thought to play a role in their development. This is why fibroids are generally seen during reproductive age and tend to shrink after menopause.
A family history of fibroids is one of the risk factors. However, fibroid formation is not something you can control; it does not arise as a result of a "mistake" or "neglect."
💡 Tip: Noting how many pads/tampons you change during your period and how long the bleeding lasts will help your doctor assess the fibroid's effect on your bleeding.
What Are the Symptoms?
Most fibroids are silent. When they do cause symptoms, the most common ones are:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding: More or longer bleeding than usual.
- Pressure and feeling of fullness: Fullness in the lower abdomen, sometimes visible swelling.
- Frequent urination: If the fibroid puts pressure on the bladder.
- Back or pelvic pain: Especially with large fibroids.
- Discomfort during sexual intercourse: Depending on the location.
- Fatigue: May be due to anemia caused by prolonged heavy bleeding.
How Are They Diagnosed?
Fibroids are usually detected during a gynecological examination and ultrasound. If necessary, your doctor may request additional imaging methods to evaluate their location and size in more detail. A simple blood test may also be done to assess for anemia due to prolonged bleeding.
These evaluations are important both for identifying fibroids and for differentiating them from other conditions with similar symptoms.
Is Treatment Necessary?
Not all fibroids require treatment. The approach is personalized based on the fibroid's size, location, number, your symptoms, and your pregnancy plans. General options include:
- Monitoring: Small, asymptomatic fibroids are often followed with regular check-ups.
- Medication: Options aimed at reducing bleeding or alleviating symptoms.
- Interventional procedures / surgery: Considered for significant complaints, rapid growth, or situations that hinder pregnancy plans.
Your gynecologist will decide which path is right for you, evaluating the complete picture together.
⚠️ Attention: In case of sudden and heavy bleeding outside of menstruation, a rapidly growing abdominal mass, severe pelvic pain, dizziness, and extreme fatigue (symptoms of anemia), consult a gynecologist without delay. Bleeding that occurs after menopause should also always be evaluated.
Fibroids and Pregnancy
Most fibroids do not negatively affect pregnancy, and many women have healthy pregnancies with fibroids. However, some fibroids, depending on their location and size, can affect pregnancy plans. If you are considering pregnancy, discussing the fibroid's condition with your doctor beforehand is the best approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can fibroids turn into cancer?
The vast majority of fibroids are benign, and the likelihood of them transforming into a malignant tumor is very low. However, if there is rapid growth or unusual symptoms, evaluation by your doctor is important. Regular check-ups are the best way to put your mind at ease.
Does every fibroid require surgery?
No. Small, asymptomatic fibroids are usually just monitored with regular check-ups. Surgery or intervention is considered for significant bleeding, pressure, pain, or situations that hinder pregnancy plans. The decision is made together with your specialist based on your complete medical picture.
Do fibroids shrink after menopause?
Often, yes. Since fibroids are affected by hormones, they generally tend to shrink after menopause, and symptoms may lighten. However, any new bleeding after menopause should always be evaluated.
Can fibroids prevent conception?
Most fibroids do not prevent conception, and many women have healthy pregnancies with fibroids. However, fibroids close to the uterine cavity (submucosal) can sometimes have an effect. If you have pregnancy plans, it is beneficial to discuss the situation with your doctor beforehand.
Final Words
Although the word "fibroid" can be unsettling when first heard, it is often a silent and benign growth. The important thing is to monitor it with regular check-ups and act early if you notice symptoms.
Listen to your body and do not hesitate to consult a specialist if you have doubts. For comfortable soft underwear that supports you during your period, you can check out the entire collection.
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This content is for informational purposes only; consult your physician (gynecologist) for diagnosis and treatment.
