R R

What are Fibroids?

Fibroids (leiomyomas or myomas) are common non-cancerous muscular tumors that grow in the wall of the uterus. They can vary widely in size and number, ranging from very small to large masses that enlarge the uterus.

Link to This Resource Page

Provide a valuable resource to your clients or customers by linking to this resource page. Just place the following link on your website.

To display this...

What are Fibroids?

Fibroids (leiomyomas or myomas) are common non-cancerous muscular tumors that grow in the wall of the uterus. They can vary widely in size and number, ranging from very small to large masses that enlarge the uterus.

read more about fibroids ...

Copy this HTML:

Copy HTML Copied!

What are the Causes and Location of Growth?

The cause is hormonal. Fibroids are linked to the hormones estrogen and progesterone. They are classified by location: intramural (within the uterine wall), subserosal (outside the wall), and submucosal (beneath the uterine lining).

What Symptoms are Associated with Fibroids?

Symptoms relate to size and location. Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, and cramps are common. Large fibroids cause urinary frequency from bladder compression and constipation from rectal pressure. Pain during intercourse and low back pain can occur. An enlarged, irregular uterus can be felt on exam.

How is Fibroids Diagnosed and Managed?

Diagnosis usually involves a pelvic exam and ultrasound. Management depends on the severity of symptoms and the patient's wish for future pregnancy. Treatment options include medication to regulate hormones or surgery to remove the fibroids (myomectomy) or the entire uterus (hysterectomy).

How Does This Condition Impact Vision or Eye Health?

Fibroids do not directly impact vision. However, the severe, chronic menstrual bleeding associated with the condition can lead to profound anemia (low red blood cell count). Severe anemia can cause temporary visual symptoms like blurred vision, paleness of the conjunctiva, or dizziness.

What are the Non-Surgical Treatment Options?

Non-surgical treatment options include medications that manage bleeding and hormone suppressors. Procedures like Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), which cuts off the blood supply to the fibroid, can also be used to shrink them.

FAQs on Fibroids

Are fibroids always painful?

No, many fibroids are small and asymptomatic, causing no noticeable symptoms.

Are fibroids cancerous?

No, fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) growths.

Does menopause cure them?

Fibroids usually shrink after menopause because hormone levels, particularly estrogen, decrease significantly.

When to See Your Doctor

See a doctor if your fibroids cause "Bulk Symptoms," such as frequent urination or constipation from pressing on the bladder or rectum. If you experience sudden, sharp pelvic pain, a fibroid may have undergone "Red Degeneration" or torsion, requiring medical management.

References

MedlinePlus. Uterine Fibroids (medlineplus.gov). 2025.

NHS. Fibroids (nhs.uk). 2022.

Cleveland Clinic. Uterine Fibroids (clevelandclinic.org). 2023.

Patient.info. Fibroids Treatment (patient.info). 2023.