Fibroids: What They Are & How to Treat Them

Fibroids are a topic that often flies under the radar, despite being incredibly common among women. Whether due to shame, misinformation, or simply a lack of discussion in mainstream health conversations, many women feel alone when dealing with fibroids. But here’s the truth: You are not alone, and knowledge is power when it comes to understanding your body.

This guide will break down everything you need to know about fibroids. We’ll discuss their definition, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, what to expect if you’ve been diagnosed, and the emotional toll this diagnosis can take. 

 

What Are Fibroids?

Fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas or myomas, are noncancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus. These benign tumors vary in size—from tiny, undetectable nodules to large masses that can distort the shape of the uterus. Some women have a single fibroid, while others may develop multiple.

While fibroids are not life-threatening, they can cause significant discomfort and disrupt daily life for many women. Although some women may never experience symptoms, others struggle with severe pain, heavy bleeding, and other complications.¹

 

What Causes Fibroids?

The exact cause of fibroids remains unclear, but several factors contribute to their development², including:

• Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone, the hormones responsible for thickening the uterine lining during each menstrual cycle, appear to promote fibroid growth.
• Genetics: A family history of fibroids increases the likelihood of developing them. If your mother or sister has fibroids, you may be more susceptible.
• Race and Ethnicity: Studies show that fibroids are more common and tend to be more severe in Black women compared to women of other racial backgrounds. The reasons for this disparity are still being researched but likely involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors.³
• Lifestyle and Diet: While no direct cause has been linked, obesity, high blood pressure, and diets high in red meat and processed foods may contribute to fibroid growth.

 

Common Symptoms of Fibroids

Fibroids affect women differently, with symptoms depending on their size, number, and location within the uterus.² Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding (sometimes leading to anemia)
• Prolonged periods lasting more than a week
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
• Constipation or bloating
• Pain during intercourse
• Lower back pain
• Complications during pregnancy

For some women, fibroids remain silent and undetected until they are found during a routine pelvic exam or imaging test.

 

How Are Fibroids Diagnosed?

If you’re experiencing symptoms, your healthcare provider (HCP) may recommend the following tests to confirm the presence of fibroids¹:

• Pelvic Exam: Your HCP may feel abnormalities in the uterus during a bimanual exam.
• Ultrasound: This non-invasive imaging test uses sound waves to create a picture of the uterus and find the location and size of the fibroid(s).
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Provides detailed images of fibroids and their location.
• Hysteroscopy: A thin, lighted tube is inserted through the vagina into the uterus to examine fibroids inside the uterine cavity.
• Sonohysterography: A saline solution is used to expand the uterus for better ultrasound imaging.

 

Treatment Options for Fibroids

Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, the size and location of fibroids, and whether a woman plans to have children in the future¹. Options include:

1. Watchful Waiting

If fibroids are small and not causing symptoms, your doctor may recommend monitoring them over time rather than immediate treatment.

2. Medications

• Hormonal therapy: Birth control pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and other hormonal medications can help manage symptoms but do not shrink fibroids.
• GnRH agonists: These medications temporarily shrink fibroids by lowering estrogen and progesterone levels, but they are not a long-term solution.
• Tranexamic acid: Helps reduce heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Iron supplements: Recommended for women experiencing anemia due to heavy bleeding.

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures

• Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): Blocks blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink.
• MRI-guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery (FUS): Uses ultrasound waves to destroy fibroids without surgery.
• Myomectomy: Removes fibroids while preserving the uterus, making it an option for women who wish to become pregnant.

4. Surgical Options

• Hysterectomy: The complete removal of the uterus, which is a permanent solution for fibroids but also means no future pregnancies. Fibroids are the reason for nearly 40% of hysterectomies in the US annually.¹
• Endometrial Ablation: A procedure that destroys the uterine lining to reduce heavy bleeding, but it is not effective for larger fibroids.

 

Prognosis and Long-Term Outlook

Fibroids are rarely life-threatening, but they can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. With proper treatment, symptoms can be managed effectively. 

However, in some cases, fibroids may return after treatment, particularly if hormonal imbalances persist. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider can help monitor and manage fibroids over time.

 

The Emotional Toll of Fibroids

Beyond the physical symptoms, fibroids can take a serious emotional toll. Many women feel frustrated, exhausted, or even ashamed due to the impact on their daily lives, relationships, and fertility. Heavy bleeding and pain can lead to missed workdays and social events, while persistent symptoms may lead to anxiety or depression.

Unfortunately, the stigma around discussing reproductive health issues means that many women suffer in silence. Breaking this silence is crucial. If you’re struggling with fibroids, know that your feelings are valid, and you’re not alone. Seeking support from healthcare professionals, joining support groups, or simply talking to trusted friends and family can make a huge difference.

 

Final Thoughts

Fibroids are incredibly common, yet they remain an under-discussed topic in women’s health. Understanding what they are, how they develop, and the available treatment options can help women make informed decisions about their health. If you suspect you have fibroids or have been diagnosed with them, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider to explore the best course of action for you.

By normalizing conversations around fibroids, we can empower more women to seek care, advocate for themselves, and live healthier, more comfortable lives. If this article resonates with you, consider sharing it with others—because every woman deserves to understand her body without fear or shame.

A note on sex and gender: Sex and gender exist on spectrums, and this article uses terms like “male” or “female” to refer to sex assigned at birth. Learn more.