Uterine Fibroid Tumors

Uterine fibroid tumors are benign (non-cancerous) tumors that grow on the muscle tissue of the uterus. They can grow on the outer or inner walls of the uterus causing immense pain and putting pressure on surrounding organs. It is estimated that between 20% and 40% of women over the age of 35 have uterine fibroid tumors. Women under the age of 35, possibly as young as the early twenties, can also develop uterine fibroid tumors. There are approximately 200,000 to 300,000 hysterectomies performed every year; typically for the treatment of symptomatic fibroids. There are three different types of fibroids that a women can have; submucosal, subserosal, intramural, or pedunculated. If you think that you may be suffering from one of more of the common uterine fibroid tumors, contact your primary care provider or OB/Gyn right away.

Signs & Symptoms of Fibroids

There are several common symptoms of fibroids to be aware of. These may include, but are not limited to:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Frequent occurrence of soiling events
• Anemia (excessive fatigue due to low red blood count)
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Pressure on the bladder which leads to a constant need to urinate or incontinence
• Pain in the back of the legs
• Pain during intercourse
• Pressure on the bowel which can lead to constipation and/or bloating
• An enlarged abdomen

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms you should speak with a physician as soon as possible. Treatment of uterine fibroid tumors can begin soon after they are diagnosed. To find a specialist in your area that can help you learn more, please use our physician locator.

Treating Uterine Fibroids

Methods of treating uterine fibroid tumors vary from "watchful waiting" for women who have fibroids but are not experiencing symptoms, to surgical procedures like a hysterectomy or myomectomy. Hysterectomies are performed for those whose symptoms cannot be controlled. This is a highly invasive surgery that involves the removal of the uterus entirely. More women with uterine fibroid tumors are trying an alternative to hysterectomy procedures known as uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). This minimally invasive procedure involves cutting off the blood supply to the tumors, causing them to shrink. UFE is a relatively fast procedure that does not require the removal of any organs or tissue, making it an appealing hysterectomy alternative. To learn more about the different types of fibroids or other uterine fibroid treatment options, please continue browsing our site. Or, for more information including a helpful information packet, please use the tools located on the right hand side of the screen.