Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus. They are the most common type of solid tumor that can grow in the pelvis. Fibroids affect 20% to 40% of all reproductive-aged women.1
Most women with fibroids do not have symptoms.2 For those who do, symptoms can range from mild to severe. Symptoms depend on how large a fibroid is, where it is, and whether it is bleeding or pressing on an internal organ.
Uterine fibroids are more common:1
References
Citations
Day Baird D, et al. (2003). Highly cumulative incidence of uterine leiomyoma in black and white women: Ultrasound evidence. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 188(1): 100–107.
Wallach E, Vlahos NF (2004). Uterine myomas: An overview of development, clinical features, and management. Obstetrics and Gynecology, 104(2): 393–406.
Credits
| Author | Kathe Gallagher, MSW |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
| Last Updated | August 16, 2007 |
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