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Welcome to the comprehensive medical library of Women's Healthcare of Southern Indiana. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding any condition or treatment, please contact Women's Healthcare of Southern Indiana. To schedule an appointment please call 812.923.6200 or use our online Request an Appointment form.

What Are Fibroids?¿Qu© son los fibromas?

What Are Fibroids?

Fibroids are round growths of muscle in the wall of your uterus. They are almost always noncancerous (benign) and harmless. Fibroids start as pea-sized lumps, but can grow steadily during your reproductive years. Many fibroids just need to be monitored. Others may require treatment if they become too large or cause symptoms.

Cutaway view of uterus
Where Fibroids Can Grow

Potential Problems

Fibroids often cause no symptoms. But a fibroid that grows quickly in your uterus can cause one or more of the following problems:

  • Excessive uterine bleeding, leading to anemia (lack of red blood cells)

  • Frequent urge to urinate

  • Difficulty having bowel movements

  • Achiness, heaviness, or fullness

  • Back or abdominal pain

  • Pain during intercourse

  • Difficulty getting pregnant or being unable to get pregnant

  • Problems with pregnancy

Treatment Is Tailored for You

No two fibroids are the same. The type of treatment you will have depends on their number, size, location, and rate of growth. Your treatment decision also depends on the severity of your symptoms and whether or not you plan to have children in the future. There are a growing number of effective ways to treat fibroids. After your medical evaluation, your doctor will be able to discuss with you the best options to solve your particular problem and meet your needs.

Your Future Checkups

Treating your fibroids is likely to relieve your symptoms. But your doctor will want to monitor your progress. Ask your doctor about any additional follow-up visits you might need.

Date Last Reviewed:

Date Last Modified: 2009-03-25T00:00:00-06:00

What Are Fibroids?¿Qu© son los fibromas?

What Are Fibroids?

Fibroids are round growths of muscle in the wall of your uterus. They are almost always noncancerous (benign) and harmless. Fibroids start as pea-sized lumps, but can grow steadily during your reproductive years. Many fibroids just need to be monitored. Others may require treatment if they become too large or cause symptoms.

Cutaway view of uterus
Where Fibroids Can Grow

Potential Problems

Fibroids often cause no symptoms. But a fibroid that grows quickly in your uterus can cause one or more of the following problems:

  • Excessive uterine bleeding, leading to anemia (lack of red blood cells)

  • Frequent urge to urinate

  • Difficulty having bowel movements

  • Achiness, heaviness, or fullness

  • Back or abdominal pain

  • Pain during intercourse

  • Difficulty getting pregnant or being unable to get pregnant

  • Problems with pregnancy

Treatment Is Tailored for You

No two fibroids are the same. The type of treatment you will have depends on their number, size, location, and rate of growth. Your treatment decision also depends on the severity of your symptoms and whether or not you plan to have children in the future. There are a growing number of effective ways to treat fibroids. After your medical evaluation, your doctor will be able to discuss with you the best options to solve your particular problem and meet your needs.

Your Future Checkups

Treating your fibroids is likely to relieve your symptoms. But your doctor will want to monitor your progress. Ask your doctor about any additional follow-up visits you might need.

Date Last Reviewed:

Date Last Modified: 2009-03-25T00:00:00-06:00