How common are uterine fibroids?

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

Among black women than white women.
As women age, especially from their 30s and 40s until menopause, usually at about age 50. About 80% of women develop uterine fibroids by the time they reach age 50.¹

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, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Updated	August 16, 2007