Fibroid tumors, also known as "fibroids," are benign growths found in the uterus. Different types of fibroid tumors grow in different areas of the uterus and each can cause different symptoms. Not all fibroids cause symptoms, but if they do, surgical and nonsurgical treatments are available.
Types
There are three types of fibroid tumors: subserosal, intramural and submucosal. They are identified by their location and direction of growth within the uterus.
Location
Fibroid tumors are located in the muscles that make up the wall of the uterus. Subserol fibroids form near the outer wall and push outward. Intramural fibroids form deeper within the muscle. And submucosal fibroids appear near the inner lining of the uterus.
Size
Fibroid tumors range in size from 1/4 inch to 6 or more inches in diameter. Large-size tumors can cause the uterus to expand and enlarge the abdomen.
Effects
Depending on their size and location, fibroid tumors can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic and back pain, pain during intercourse, and pressure on the bladder that causes a frequent urge to urinate.
Treatment
Treatment is not always necessary, but options include thermal ablation to destroy fibroids, nonsurgical embolization to block blood flow to tumors causing them to die, and, in some cases, a hysterectomy to remove the uterus.
