Uterine fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop in or on the uterus, affecting millions of women globally. Often referred to simply as fibroids, these growths are typically not life-threatening, but they can lead to a wide range of symptoms. For some women, fibroids may cause only mild discomfort, while for others, they can significantly impact daily life — including causing fertility challenges. The effects of fibroids largely depend on their size, number, and location within the uterus.
Understanding Uterine Fibroids
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop within the muscular wall of the uterus. Also known as myomas or leiomyomas, these tumors are typically harmless. In fact, many women with fibroids experience no symptoms and may not even be aware they have them. However, in some cases, fibroids can lead to significant symptoms that require medical attention or treatment.
Fibroids can range in size from tiny, seed-like nodules to large masses that may alter the shape of the uterus. In some cases, they can grow so extensively that they press against the rib cage, leading to significant discomfort and health issues. One of the major concerns associated with uterine fibroids is their impact on fertility and pregnancy. Because fibroids often cause no symptoms, they are sometimes only discovered when a woman experiences difficulty conceiving or encounters complications during pregnancy.
What Causes Uterine Fibroids?
The exact cause of uterine fibroids remains unclear, but research suggests that a combination of factors may contribute to their development. The most widely recognized contributors include:
- Hormonal Imbalances: Estrogen and progesterone—hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle—appear to encourage fibroid growth. These hormones stimulate the regeneration of the uterine lining and may also promote the expansion of fibroid tissue. This explains why fibroids often shrink after menopause, when hormone levels decline.
- Genetic Predisposition: There is evidence that fibroids can run in families. Women with a mother or sister who had fibroids are at a higher risk. In addition, fibroid cells often show specific genetic mutations that differ from those found in normal uterine muscle cells.
- Growth Factors: Substances such as insulin-like growth factors, which help regulate cell growth and tissue maintenance, may influence the development and progression of fibroids. Research into their exact role is ongoing.
- Lifestyle and Other Risk Factors: Several lifestyle-related factors may increase the likelihood of developing fibroids. These include early onset of menstruation, obesity, high consumption of red meat, and low intake of green vegetables. Alcohol and caffeine consumption have also been linked to increased estrogen levels, which may further contribute to fibroid growth.
Common Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
Many women with fibroids have no symptoms, especially when the growths are small or located in areas of the uterus that don’t disrupt normal function. However, when symptoms do appear, they can range from mild to severe and often include the following:
- Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: One of the most common signs of fibroids is unusually heavy or prolonged periods (menorrhagia). In some cases, the blood loss can lead to anemia, causing fatigue, weakness, and dizziness.
- Pelvic Pain or Pressure: Larger fibroids may cause discomfort or a sensation of pressure in the pelvic area. This can be constant or intermittent, and may be mistaken for bloating, weight gain, or even pregnancy.
- Frequent Urination: Fibroids pressing against the bladder can create a constant urge to urinate. This may disrupt daily activities and sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and discomfort.
- Pain During Intercourse: Fibroids located near the cervix or in the uterine lining (such as submucosal fibroids) can make sexual intercourse painful or uncomfortable for some women.
- Lower Back or Leg Pain: When fibroids grow toward the back of the uterus, they may press on nearby nerves, causing pain in the lower back or even radiating down the legs.
- Fertility and Pregnancy Complications: In some cases, fibroids can interfere with the ability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term. They may increase the risk of infertility, miscarriage, premature birth, or complications during labor and delivery. Women with fibroids who are pregnant often require closer medical monitoring.
