Picture of Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous (benign) tumors of the uterus. It is the most common diagnosis for which women undergo a hysterectomy. Some women who have uterine fibroids do not experience any symptoms. Approximately 25% of women who have them have severe symptoms including pain and heavy menstrual bleeding. They sometimes interfere with reproductive function. Uterine fibroids may have a significant negative impact on a woman's quality of life.

Although fibroids are benign, they may cause significant discomfort and other symptoms. A variety of treatment options are available. Certain medications may be prescribed to regulate steroid hormone levels. Steroids can be associated with severe side effects so they are based used on a short-term basis. Fibroids may be removed surgically. Hysterectomy and abdominal myomectomy are two techniques that may be used to remove fibroids. Several minimally invasive procedures such as ablation are available as well.