What are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are non cancerous benign fibrous tumors comprised of smooth muscle tissue found in many women during their reproductive years. Their size ranges from as small as a seed to as large as a melon. Women between the ages of 18-45 are most likely to develop fibroids. The causes of uterine fibroids are currently unknown. However, there are several risk factors that are linked to their development and growth. Uterine Fibroids are treated either medically or surgically.

The clinical name for Fibroid is leiomyoma. Uterine leiomyomas (fibroids) are located in the uterus. The uterus is where a baby develops and grows when a woman is pregnant. The uterus is located within the pelvic region. The pelvic region is located between the abdomen and thighs. Internally, the uterus is directly behind and almost overlying the bladder, and in front of the part of the large intestine that is closest to the rectum and anus. The size of the uterus is about 3 inches (7.6 cm) long, 1.8 inches (4.5 cm) wide, and 1.2 inches (3.0 cm) thick. The lower portion of the uterus is called the cervix. The cervix and cervical canal protrudes into the vagina.

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Location

Uterine fibroids are located either within the wall of the uterus, surface of the uterus, within the muscle beneath the wall of the uterus, or within the wall of the cervix. When located within the wall of the uterus they are referred to as intramural fibroids. When located on the surface of the uterus they are referred to as subserosal fibroids. When located within the muscle underneath the wall of the uterus they are referred to as submucosal fibroids. When located within the wall of the cervix they are referred to as cervical fibroids. When located on the outer surface of the uterus and are attached by a narrow stalk they are referred to as Pedunculated. Fibroids can be single or multiple and their size varies from a few millimeters to 11.8 inches (30 cm) or more.