08/11/2025
Uterine fibroids (also called leiomyomas or myomas) are common, noncancerous growths in or on the uterus. Many women have no symptoms, but in some cases, they can cause significant discomfort and other complications.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the location, size, and number of fibroids. Common symptoms can include:
Heavy, prolonged, or painful periods (which can lead to anemia and fatigue due to blood loss).
Pelvic pain or a feeling of fullness/pressure in the lower abdomen.
Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder completely, if the fibroids press on the bladder.
Constipation or re**al pressure, if they press on the re**um.
Pain during s*x.
Lower back pain.
Enlargement of the abdomen in extreme cases.
Diagnosis
Fibroids are often found during a routine pelvic exam where a doctor might feel an irregular mass. Imaging tests are then used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the precise location and size:
Ultrasound (transabdominal or transvaginal) is the most common initial test.