It is a benign, non-cancerous tumor that grows in the muscle tissue of the uterus also known as the myometrium. Only 0.5% of fibroids become malignant tumors (sarcomas). It is estimated that one in four or five women over 35 years old suffer from this type of tumor.

The fibroids emergence and growth is provoked by the hormones called estrogens and therefore the fibroid is usually presented in fertilization age. It is very unusual for fibroids to appear before the first menstruation (menarche) or after menopause.

• Bleeding between menstruations and abundant menstrual bleeding, sometimes with clots.
• Menstrual periods may last longer than usual.

• Pelvic pain
• Feeling of pressure in the lower part of an abdomen
• Pain during intercourse.

It is easy to detect using medical imaging:

• transvaginal ultrasound.
• MRI.
• Hysteroscopy.

The treatment can vary depending on the symptoms, age, type of fibroid and the desire to have children. Mostly the fibroids do not require any treatment if they cause no symptoms.
Medical treatment is used to improve the symptoms, either bleeding or pain.
Surgical treatments: Hysteroscopy can remove fibroids growing inside the uterus.
Uterine artery embolization: This procedure stops fibroid blood flow, and therefore decreases their diameters.
Myomectomy is the removal of fibroids. It may be a good option if you want to have children but it cannot prevent other fibroids regrowth.
Hysterectomy: With this surgical technique the uterus is removed. It may be an option if you no longer want to have children, or if medical treatment has not given any results.