Question
An ultrasound showed that I have eight fibroids, one the size of an orange. I've had fibroids in the past and had a myomectomy. I'm 45, have no symptoms other than frequent urination and bloating. Will they continue to grow and will they multiply?
Answer
Uterine fibroids (leiomyoma) are common condition found in up to 80 percent of women by age 50. The reason that the fibroids develop is unknown but it is generally considered a benign growth with less than one percent being a malignant tumor.
Fibroids do not multiply but rather grow independently. Some patients will present with multiple growths of varying sizes while other women may present with a solitary fibroid. The reason for this is not known.
The majority of women with fibroids will not have symptoms. However, depending on the number, location and size of the fibroids, symptoms may develop. Fibroids may cause such symptoms as irregular or heavy vaginal bleeding, a mass effect (pelvic pressure, pain, low back pain), bladder symptoms (urgency, frequency), bowel dysfunction, infertility and pregnancy loss.
Fibroids grow in response to estrogen. After menopause,the fibroids may shrink and become asymptomatic. If a patient is symptomatic from her fibroids, she should consult with a physician experienced in treating this condition, as there are multiple medical and surgical options available.