Uterine fibroids are usually non-cancerous growths that develop in or just outside a woman’s uterus (womb). Rarely (less than one in 1,000) a cancerous fibroid called leiomyosarcoma occurs. Uterine fibroids develop from normal uterus muscle cells that start growing abnormally. As the cells grow, they form a benign tumor. Uterine fibroids are very common and many women – usually between age 30 and menopause – have uterine fibroids at some point. Medications, surgery and uterine artery embolization are all possible treatments for uterine fibroids.
The cause of uterine fibroids isn't certain, however, risk factors include a family history of fibroids, obesity or early onset of puberty. Symptoms include heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods and pelvic pain. In some cases, there are no symptoms for uterine fibroids.
