Uterine Fibroids

Uterine Fibroids

If you have uterine fibroids, you may never even notice that they are there. Ranging from the size of a small seed to grapefruit-sized, fibroids are tumors on the uterus that rarely cause harm. Some women have true discomfort with fibroids, including pain in the abdomen or low back, or pain during sex. Sometimes, uterine fibroids can cause miscarriage, preterm labor, or even lead to infertility. Women in their 40s and 50s, women of African-American descent and women that are overweight are at higher risk of developing fibroids, although an estimated 20-80% of women will have them at some point before they turn 50. If your doctor notices fibroids during an ultrasound or pelvic exam, he or she may want to treat them with medication or surgery.
Recently Answered
Q Why would a fibroid on the uterus cause back pain?
2 Answers
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
Back pain can occur if a uterine fibroid presses on nerves of the spine. Watch the animation to learn more about symptoms of fibroids. Full Answer
Q How can fibroids cause urinary symptoms?
2 Answers
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
Subserous fibroids, which are located on the outside wall of the uterus, can press on the bladder, causing urinary symptoms. Watch the animation to learn more about symptoms of fibroids. Full Answer
Q Why do some fibroids cause constipation?
2 Answers
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
If a fibroid is subserous, meaning it is located on the outside of the wall of the uterus, it can press on the rectum, resulting in constipation. Watch the animation to learn more about symptoms of fibroids. Full Answer
Q Is constipation a symptom of fibroids?
2 Answers
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
Both constipation and urinary problems can occur, especially if uterine fibroids are located on the outside wall of the uterus. Watch the animation to learn more about symptoms of fibroids. Full Answer
Q Are urinary problems a symptom of fibroids?
2 Answers
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
Urinary problems are one of many possible symptoms, especially if uterine fibroids are located on the outside wall of the uterus. Watch the animation to learn more about symptoms of fibroids. Full Answer
Q Are heavy menstrual periods a symptom of fibroids?
2 Answers
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
Women with submucosal fibroids located partly in the cavity and partly in the wall of the uterus are especially likely to experience prolonged, heavy menstrual bleeding. Watch the animation to learn more about symptoms of uterine fibroids. Full Answer
Q Why do fibroids cause different symptoms among women?
2 Answers
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
Different types and locations of uterine fibroids affect the symptoms they can cause. Watch the animation to learn more about symptoms of fibroids. Full Answer
Q Do fibroids always cause pelvic pain?
2 Answers
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
Uterine fibroids can cause many different symptoms, including pelvic pain or pressure. Watch the animation to learn more about symptoms of fibroids. Full Answer
Q How do fibroids develop?
2 Answers
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
Fibroids are growths of cells from the muscular layer of the uterine wall. Watch the animation to learn more about fibroids. Full Answer
Q How big is a uterine fibroid?
2 Answers
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
The size of a uterine fibroid varies; some are as small as a pea and others grow quite large. Watch the animation to learn more about fibroids. Full Answer