What are fibroids?

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths made of muscle and fibrous tissue that develop in the wall of the uterus. They can vary widely in size, number, and location — some grow inside the uterine cavity, some within the uterine wall, and some on the outer surface of the uterus, which affects both symptoms and treatment options.

Common symptoms

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Frequent urination, from a fibroid pressing on the bladder
• Pain during intercourse
• Lower back pain
• In many cases, no symptoms at all — fibroids are often discovered incidentally during a routine exam or ultrasound

Types of fibroids, by location

• 1

  Submucosal fibroids

  Grow into the uterine cavity; most likely to cause heavy bleeding and affect fertility.

• 2

  Intramural fibroids

  Grow within the muscular wall of the uterus; the most common type.

• 3

  Subserosal fibroids

  Grow on the outer surface of the uterus; more likely to cause pressure symptoms than bleeding.

How fibroids are diagnosed

Diagnosis typically involves a pelvic exam and ultrasound, which can usually identify the size, number, and location of fibroids. In some cases, additional imaging like MRI or a hysteroscopy may be used for a clearer picture, particularly if surgical treatment is being considered.

Treatment approaches, based on your situation

• 1

  If fibroids aren't causing symptoms

  Monitoring alone is often appropriate, since many fibroids don't require treatment.

• 2

  For symptom management

  Medication can help manage heavy bleeding or pain without addressing the fibroids directly.

• 3

  For fibroids affecting fertility

  Submucosal fibroids in particular may need to be removed, often via hysteroscopy, before or during fertility treatment.

• 4

  For larger or more symptomatic fibroids

  Minimally invasive procedures or surgery (myomectomy) can remove fibroids while preserving the uterus.

• 5

  For those who've completed childbearing with severe symptoms

  A hysterectomy may be considered in select cases.

Fibroids and fertility

Not all fibroids affect fertility — location matters more than size in most cases. Submucosal fibroids, which grow into the uterine cavity, are the most likely to interfere with implantation or pregnancy, and are often addressed before fertility treatment. Intramural and subserosal fibroids are less likely to be a fertility concern, though this varies by individual case.