How Common Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus. They are the most common type of solid tumor that can grow in the pelvis. Fibroids affect 20 to 50 out of 100 reproductive-aged women.1
Most women with fibroids do not have symptoms. For those who do, symptoms can range from mild to severe. Symptoms depend on how large a fibroid is, where it is, and whether it is bleeding or pressing on an internal organ.
Understanding Uterine Fibroids -- Symptoms
Uterine fibroids often have no symptoms. When they do, they may include: Heavy, prolonged, or irregular periods Pain in the lower abdomen or back Painful sex Urinary problems, such as urinary frequency Rectal problems, such as pain in the rectum
Read the Understanding Uterine Fibroids -- Symptoms article > >
Uterine fibroids are more common:
- Among black women than white women.
- As women age, especially from their 30s and 40s until menopause, usually at about age 50.
Citations
Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, Society of Reproductive Surgeons (2008). Myomas and reproductive function. Fertility and Sterility, 90(3): S125-S130.
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