Fibroids are tumors made up of smooth muscle cells and connective tissue that usually develop in the uterus. One of the most important characteristics of fibroids is that they’re noncancerous.
Research has shown that fibroids grow at different rates, even when a woman has more than one.
FACTS ABOUT FIBROIDS
- Fibroids of the uterus are the most common tumor of the reproductive system.
- Fibroids are most common among women going through menopause.
- Pelvic exams are the most common way to detect fibroids.
- A heavy and prolonged period, bleeding between periods, and pelvic pain may be symptoms.
- Several treatment options are available.
TYPES OF FIBROIDS
There are three main types of fibroids which are:
- Subserosal fibroids: They may extend outside of the uterus into the pelvis. Occasionally, subserosal fibroids become large and may attach to the uterus, which becomes a pedunculated fibroid.
- Intramural fibroids: These fibroids grow within the uterine muscle wall.
- Submucosal fibroids: These are growths that occur within the inner lining of the uterus. They may occur individually or in clusters.
