For many women, the words “uterine fibroids” come with fear, confusion, or unanswered questions. Some women discover they have fibroids during a routine checkup. Others find out after years of painful periods, heavy bleeding, or difficulty getting pregnant.
The truth is, uterine fibroids are extremely common, especially among women in their reproductive years. Yet many women still do not fully understand what they are, what causes them, or when they become a serious concern.
As a woman, understanding fibroids can help you make informed decisions about your health, recognize symptoms early, and seek proper care when necessary.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus (womb). They are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary greatly in size. While some fibroids are as small as a seed and cause no symptoms, others can grow large enough to enlarge the abdomen or affect nearby organs.
A woman may have one fibroid, multiple fibroids, very small fibroids or extremely large fibroids. Fibroids are not cancer, and in most cases, they do not increase the risk of uterine cancer.
Who Is Most Likely to Develop Fibroids?
Fibroids can affect any woman, but certain factors increase the likelihood of developing them.
The common risk factors include:
- Being between the ages of 30 and 50
- A family history of fibroids
- Early onset of menstruation
- Hormonal changes, especially involving estrogen
- Obesity or excess body weight
- High consumption of red meat and processed foods
- Low intake of fruits and vegetables
- African ancestry, as Black women are more likely to develop fibroids and may experience more severe symptoms
What Causes Uterine Fibroids?
The exact cause of fibroids is not fully understood, but experts believe hormones play a major role. Two hormones in particular are linked to fibroid growth: estrogen and progesterone. These hormones help regulate the menstrual cycle, but they can also stimulate fibroid growth.
Fibroids often
- Grow during reproductive years
- Increase during pregnancy due to hormonal changes
- Shrink after menopause when hormone levels decline
- It is also important to note that genetics may also play a role, which explains why fibroids sometimes run in families.
Types of Uterine Fibroids
Gynaecologists categorise fibroids into four main types based on where they grow:
- Intramural Fibroids: This is the most common type that grows within the muscular wall of the uterus.
- Subserosal Fibroids: These types of fibroids project outward from the exterior of the uterine wall into the pelvic cavity.
- Submucosal Fibroids: These grow just under the inner lining of the uterus and push into the endometrial cavity. They are notorious for causing severe menstrual bleeding.
- Pedunculated Fibroids: These are fibroids that grow on a small stalk or stem, resembling a mushroom. They can grow inside or outside the uterus.
The Common Symptoms of Fibroids
Some women have fibroids and never experience symptoms.
Others may deal with symptoms that interfere with daily life. The common signs include:
- Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
- Periods may become unusually heavy, prolonged, or include large blood clots.
- Severe Menstrual Pain
- Fibroids can increase cramping and pelvic discomfort during menstruation.
- Frequent Urination
- Large fibroids can press against the bladder, causing the urge to urinate more often.
- Pelvic Pressure or Fullness
- Some women describe a feeling of heaviness or pressure in the lower abdomen.
- Lower Back Pain
- Fibroids may press on surrounding muscles and nerves.
- Pain During Sexual Intercourse
- Depending on their location, fibroids may cause discomfort during intimacy.
- Abdominal Enlargement
- Large fibroids can make the abdomen appear swollen or pregnant.
- Fertility Challenges
- In some cases, fibroids may affect conception or pregnancy, though many women with fibroids still have healthy pregnancies.
When Should You See a Doctor?
It is important not to ignore symptoms simply because they seem “normal” or because others around you experience similar issues. You should seek medical attention if you experience:
- Very heavy periods
- Bleeding between periods
- Severe pelvic pain
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Persistent fatigue from blood loss
- Rapid abdominal enlargement
- Symptoms affecting your daily activities
Heavy bleeding over time can lead to anaemia, which may cause weakness, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
How Are Fibroids Diagnosed?
Doctors may use several methods to diagnose fibroids. These may include:
- Pelvic examination
- Ultrasound scan
- MRI scan
- Hysteroscopy
- Blood tests to check for anemia
An ultrasound is one of the most common and effective ways to detect fibroids.
Do All Fibroids Need Treatment?
Not necessarily. If fibroids are small and not causing symptoms, doctors may simply monitor them over time. Treatment usually depends on:
- Size of the fibroids
- Severity of symptoms
- Age
- Desire for future pregnancy
- Overall health
Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids
This varies from woman to woman and includes:
1. Medications
Certain medications may help:
- Reduce heavy bleeding
- Ease pain
- Shrink fibroids temporarily
However, medications may not permanently remove fibroids.
2. Lifestyle Changes
While lifestyle changes cannot completely cure fibroids, they may help support overall reproductive health. Some helpful habits include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Eating more fruits and vegetables
- Reducing processed foods
- Exercising regularly
- Managing stress
- Attending regular medical checkups
3. Non-Surgical Procedures
Some procedures can shrink or destroy fibroids without major surgery. Examples include:
- Uterine artery embolization (cuts blood supply to fibroids)
- Focused ultrasound treatment
Your doctor would need to advise you on the best course of action, as these options may not be suitable for every woman.
4. Surgery
For severe cases, surgery may be necessary. These include:
Myomectomy: This involves removing fibroids while preserving the uterus. This may be recommended for women who still want children. The procedure is categorized into three types based on how the surgeon accesses the fibroids. They include hysteroscopic (through the vagina), laparoscopic (tiny belly cuts), or open surgery (large abdominal cut).
Hysterectomy: Removes the uterus completely. This permanently eliminates fibroids but also ends the ability to become pregnant.
Can Fibroids Affect Pregnancy?
Fibroids can sometimes:
- Affect fertility
- Increase the risk of miscarriage
- Cause complications during pregnancy or delivery
However, many women with fibroids successfully conceive and give birth to healthy babies.
The effect often depends on:
- The size of the fibroid
- Its location
- The number of fibroids present
Women planning pregnancy should discuss fibroids with their doctor.
Protecting Your Reproductive Health
Fibroids are common, but suffering in silence should not be. As a woman, you shouldn’t ignore or normalize: heavy bleeding, severe menstrual pain or constant fatigue. Listening to your body, attending routine medical checkups, and seeking medical advice early can make a significant difference.
Uterine fibroids can affect a woman physically, emotionally, and sometimes financially, especially when symptoms interfere with work, relationships, or fertility plans. But fibroids are manageable, and treatment options continue to improve. The most important thing every woman should know is this: you do not have to ignore persistent symptoms or suffer in silence. Awareness, early diagnosis, and proper medical care can help women live healthier and more comfortable lives.
