by Polsdorfer R
(Fibroids; Myomas; Fibromyomas; Leiomyomas)

Uterine fibroids are growths in the wall of the uterus. This is the organ where the fetus develops. Fibroids vary in size from very small, 1 inch or less (the size of a pea), to 8 or more inches (the size of a grapefruit). These growths are not cancerous. People usually have more than one fibroid.

The cause of this problem is not known. Genetics may play a role.

Fibroid growth is stimulated by estrogen and progesterone hormones. This causes fibroids to grow during pregnancy and shrink after childbirth. It also causes them to become less of a problem after menopause.

Uterine Fibroid
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What are the risk factors for fibroids?What are the symptoms of fibroids?How are fibroids diagnosed?What are the treatments for fibroids?Are there screening tests for fibroids?How can I reduce my risk of fibroids?What questions should I ask my doctor?Where can I get more information about fibroids?

References

Uterine fibroids. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists website. Available at: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/uterine-fibroids. Accessed May 9, 2022.

Uterine fibroids fact sheet. Women's Health—US Department of Health and Human Services website. Available at: https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/uterine-fibroids. Accessed May 9, 2022.

Uterine leiomyoma. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/uterine-leiomyoma. Accessed May 9, 2022.

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