Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, fibromas, or fibromyomas, are a type of benign tumor that develops from smooth muscle tissue, most commonly in the uterus.
These tumors are non-cancerous and are typically composed of muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue. Fibroids are extremely common among women of reproductive age, with estimates suggesting that up to 70% of women will develop at least one fibroid at some point in their lives.
The term “myoma” broadly refers to tumors arising from smooth muscle tissue and can technically occur anywhere in the body where smooth muscle is present. In men, these are referred to as leiomyomas, though they are rare. In women, fibroids almost exclusively affect the uterus.
What Causes Fibroids?
The development of uterine fibroids is influenced by a combination of hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors, though the exact mechanism by which they form is not yet fully understood.
Hormonal factors, specifically estrogen and progesterone, play a key role in regulating the menstrual cycle and stimulating the growth of uterine muscle cells, creating conditions in which fibroids can develop.
Genetic predisposition is another significant factor. Women with a family history of fibroids have a considerably higher risk of developing them.
Lifestyle and environmental factors have also been shown to contribute. These include obesity or excess body weight, alcohol consumption (particularly beer), and vitamin D deficiency.
Types of Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are the most frequently occurring form of this condition. Depending on where they develop within the uterus, they are classified into the following types:
- Subserosal fibroids: Grow on the outer surface of the uterus and expand into the pelvic cavity.
- Intramural fibroids: Develop within the muscular wall of the uterus and are the most common type.
- Submucosal fibroids: Form just beneath the inner lining of the uterus (the endometrium).
- Pedunculated fibroids: Attach to the uterus via a stalk or pedicle.
Symptoms vary depending on the size, location, and number of fibroids present, and in some cases, fibroids cause no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, the most common include heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), bleeding between periods, pelvic pain or pressure, increased urinary frequency, difficulty fully emptying the bladder, and, in some cases, fertility problems.
Fibroids During Pregnancy
It is not uncommon for fibroids to be discovered during pregnancy, often for the first time, as many women are unaware, they have them until routine prenatal imaging is performed. In most cases, fibroids do not affect the course of pregnancy.
However, in a small number of cases, complications can arise, including fibroid growth during pregnancy, preterm labor, abnormal fetal positioning, placental problems, or the need for a cesarean delivery.
Fibroids are an extremely common condition, particularly among women. While they rarely pose serious health risks, they can significantly affect quality of life, which is why proper evaluation and treatment are important.
ABC Medical Center’s Women’s Center offers specialized care. Contact us today!
Fuentes
MedlinePlus, MSD Manual, Elsevier
