uterine fibroid

Some people with uterine fibroids do not have symptoms. Abdominal pain, anemia and increased bleeding can indicate the presence of fibroids. There may also be pain during intercourse (penetration), depending on the location of the fibroid. During pregnancy, they may also be the cause of miscarriage,{{cite book|title=Reproductive Surgery in Assisted Conception|date=2015|isbn=978-1-4471-4953-8|page=107|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GpVwCAAAQBAJ&pg=PA107|vauthors = Metwally M,Li TC|publisher=Springer }} bleeding, premature labor, or interference with the position of the fetus.{{Cite web |title=Uterine Fibroids: Symptoms, Causes, Risk Factors & Treatment |url=https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9130-uterine-fibroids |access-date=2022-10-08 |website=Cleveland Clinic}} A uterine fibroid can cause rectal pressure. The abdomen can grow larger mimicking the appearance of pregnancy. Some large fibroids can extend out through the cervix and vagina.

While fibroids are common, they are not a typical cause for infertility, accounting for about 3% of reasons why a woman may not be able to have a child.[http://www.asrm.org/Patients/patientbooklets/uterine_fibroids.pdf American Society of Reproductive Medicine Patient Booklet: Uterine Fibroids, 2003] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080703155840/http://www.asrm.org/Patients/patientbooklets/uterine_fibroids.pdf |date=2008-07-03 }} The majority of people with uterine fibroids will have normal pregnancy outcomes.{{cite journal | vauthors = Segars JH, Parrott EC, Nagel JD, Guo XC, Gao X, Birnbaum LS, Pinn VW, Dixon D | title = Proceedings from the Third National Institutes of Health International Congress on Advances in Uterine Leiomyoma Research: comprehensive review, conference summary and future recommendations | journal = Hum. Reprod. Update | volume = 20 | issue = 3 | pages = 309–33 | year = 2014 | pmid = 24401287 | pmc = 3999378 | doi = 10.1093/humupd/dmt058 }} In cases of intercurrent uterine fibroids in infertility, a fibroid is typically located in a submucosal position and it is thought that this location may interfere with the function of the lining and the ability of the embryo to implant.

Some risk factors associated with the development of uterine fibroids are modifiable.

Fibroids are more common in obese women. Fibroids are dependent on estrogen and progesterone to grow and therefore relevant only during the reproductive years.

Diets high in fruits and vegetables tend to lower the risk of developing fibroids. Fibers, vitamin A, C and E, phytoestrogens, carotenoids, meat, fish, and dairy products are of unclear effect. Normal dietary levels of vitamin D may reduce the risk of developing fibroids.

Fifty percent of uterine fibroids demonstrate a genetic abnormality. Often a translocation is found on some chromosomes. Fibroids are partly genetic. If a mother had fibroids, risk in the daughter is about three times higher than average.{{cite web|url= http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/uterine-fibroids.html#d|title= Uterine fibroids fact sheet|publisher= womenshealth.gov|url-status= live|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160209174054/http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/uterine-fibroids.html#d|archive-date= 2016-02-09|date= 2016-12-15}}

Black women have a 3–9 times increased chance of developing uterine fibroids than white women.{{cite journal |vauthors=Younas K, Hadoura E, Majoko F, Bunkheila A |title=A review of evidence-based management of uterine fibroids |journal=The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist |date=January 2016 |volume=18 |issue=1 |pages=33–42 |doi=10.1111/tog.12223|doi-access=free }} Only a few specific genes or cytogenetic deviations are associated with fibroids. 80–85% of fibroids have a mutation in the mediator complex subunit 12 (MED12) gene.{{cite journal | vauthors = Kämpjärvi K, Park MJ, Mehine M, Kim NH, Clark AD, Bützow R, Böhling T, Böhm J, Mecklin JP, Järvinen H, Tomlinson IP, van der Spuy ZM, Sjöberg J, Boyer TG, Vahteristo P | title = Mutations in Exon 1 highlight the role of MED12 in uterine leiomyomas | journal = Human Mutation | volume = 35 | issue = 9 | pages = 1136–41 | date = Sep 2014 | pmid = 24980722 | doi = 10.1002/humu.22612 | s2cid = 13931280 | doi-access = free }}{{cite journal | vauthors = Heinonen HR, Pasanen A, Heikinheimo O, Tanskanen T, Palin K, Tolvanen J, Vahteristo P, Sjöberg J, Pitkänen E, Bützow R, Mäkinen N, Aaltonen LA | year = 2017 | title = Multiple clinical characteristics separate MED12-mutation-positive and -negative uterine leiomyomas | journal = Sci Rep | volume = 7 | issue = 1| page = 1015 | doi = 10.1038/s41598-017-01199-0 | pmid = 28432313 | pmc = 5430741 | bibcode = 2017NatSR...7.1015H | doi-access = free }}

{{further|Hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer}}

A syndrome (Reed's syndrome) that causes uterine leiomyomata along with cutaneous leiomyomata and renal cell cancer has been reported.{{cite journal | vauthors = Tolvanen J, Uimari O, Ryynänen M, Aaltonen LA, Vahteristo P | title = Strong family history of uterine leiomyomatosis warrants fumarate hydratase mutation screening | journal = Human Reproduction | volume = 27 | issue = 6 | pages = 1865–9 | year = 2012 | pmid = 22473397 | doi = 10.1093/humrep/des105 | doi-access = free }}{{cite journal | vauthors = Toro JR, Nickerson ML, Wei MH, Warren MB, Glenn GM, Turner ML, Stewart L, Duray P, Tourre O, Sharma N, Choyke P, Stratton P, Merino M, Walther MM, Linehan WM, Schmidt LS, Zbar B | title = Mutations in the fumarate hydratase gene cause hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer in families in North America | journal = Am J Hum Genet | volume = 73 | issue = 1 | pages = 95–106 | year = 2003 | pmid = 12772087 | pmc = 1180594 | doi = 10.1086/376435 }}{{cite web |url=http://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/GARD/Condition/10160/Reed_syndrome.aspx |title=Reed syndrome |access-date=2012-04-09 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120224004212/http://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/GARD/Condition/10160/Reed_syndrome.aspx |archive-date=2012-02-24 }}{{full citation needed|date=October 2014}} This is associated with a mutation in the gene that produces the enzyme fumarate hydratase, located on the long arm of chromosome 1 (1q42.3-43). Inheritance is autosomal dominant.

File:leiomyoma.jpg

Fibroids are a type of uterine leiomyoma. Fibroids grossly appear as round, well circumscribed (but not encapsulated), solid nodules that are white or tan, and show whorled appearance on histological section. The size varies, from microscopic to lesions of considerable size. Typically lesions the size of a grapefruit or bigger are felt by the patient themself through the abdominal wall.

File:Lipoleiomyoma2.jpg of a lipoleiomyoma, a type of leiomyoma. H&E stain.]]

Microscopically, tumor cells resemble normal cells (elongated, spindle-shaped, with a cigar-shaped nucleus) and form bundles with different directions (whorled). These cells are uniform in size and shape, with scarce mitoses. There are three benign variants: bizarre (atypical); cellular; and mitotically active.

The appearance of prominent nucleoli with peri-nucleolar halos should alert the pathologist to investigate the possibility of the extremely rare hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer (Reed) syndrome.{{cite journal | vauthors = Garg K, Tickoo SK, Soslow RA, Reuter VE | title = Morphologic Features of Uterine Leiomyomas Associated with Hereditary Leiomyomatosis and Renal Cell Carcinoma Syndrome | journal = The American Journal of Surgical Pathology | volume = 35 | issue = 8 | pages = 1235–1237 | year = 2011 | pmid = 21753700 | doi = 10.1097/PAS.0b013e318223ca01 | s2cid = 1342593 }}

File:Uterine fibroids.png

Growth and location are the main factors that determine if a fibroid leads to symptoms and problems. A small lesion can be symptomatic if located within the uterine cavity while a large lesion on the outside of the uterus may go unnoticed. Different locations are classified as follows:

• Intramural fibroids are located within the muscular wall of the uterus and are the most common type. Unless they are large, they may be asymptomatic. Intramural fibroids begin as small nodules in the muscular wall of the uterus. With time, intramural fibroids may expand inwards, causing distortion and elongation of the uterine cavity.
• Subserosal fibroids are located on the surface of the uterus. They can also grow outward from the surface and remain attached by a small piece of tissue and then are called pedunculated fibroids.
• Submucosal fibroids are located in the muscle beneath the endometrium of the uterus and distort the uterine cavity; even small lesions in this location may lead to bleeding and infertility. A pedunculated lesion within the cavity is termed an intracavitary fibroid and can be passed through the cervix.
• Cervical fibroids are located in the wall of the cervix (neck of the uterus). Rarely, fibroids are found in the supporting structures (round ligament, broad ligament, or uterosacral ligament) of the uterus that also contain smooth muscle tissue.

Since 2011 the FIGO published their consensus paper on the classification of fibroids, namely from 0 to 8. This is part of the PALM COEIN classification and is the most frequently used in clinical practise and research.{{Cite journal |last1=Munro |first1=Malcolm G. |last2=Critchley |first2=Hilary O. D. |last3=Broder |first3=Michael S. |last4=Fraser |first4=Ian S. |last5=FIGO Working Group on Menstrual Disorders |date=April 2011 |title=FIGO classification system (PALM-COEIN) for causes of abnormal uterine bleeding in nongravid women of reproductive age |journal=International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics|volume=113 |issue=1 |pages=3–13 |doi=10.1016/j.ijgo.2010.11.011 |issn=1879-3479 |pmid=21345435|s2cid=205260568 |doi-access=free }}

• Type 0: pedunculated submucosal, intracavitary (i.e. inside of the uterus)
• Type 1: submucosal, <50% intramural
• Type 2: submucosal, ≥50% intramural
• Type 3: contacts the endometrium, 100% intramural
• Type 4: intramural (i.e. completely inside the wall of the uterus)
• Type 5: subserosal, ≥50% intramural
• Type 6: subserosal, <50% intramural
• Type 7: pedunculated subserosal
• Type 8: other (e.g. cervcial, parasitic)

There are also hybrid leimyomas, like the type 2-5 which are both subserosal as submucosal.

Fibroids may be single or multiple. Most fibroids start in the muscular wall of the uterus. With further growth, some lesions may develop towards the outside of the uterus or towards the internal cavity. Secondary changes that may develop within fibroids are hemorrhage, necrosis, calcification, and cystic changes. They tend to calcify after menopause.{{cite book| vauthors = Impey L, Child T|title=Obstetrics and Gynaecology|date=2016|publisher=John Wiley & Sons|isbn=978-1-119-01080-7|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=STFtDQAAQBAJ&pg=PA24|language=en}}

If the uterus contains too many to count, it is referred to as diffuse uterine leiomyomatosis.

Fibroids of uterine origin located in other parts of the body, sometimes also called parasitic myomas have been historically extremely rare, but are now diagnosed with increasing frequency. They may be related or identical to metastasizing leiomyoma.

They are in most cases still hormone dependent but may cause life-threatening complications when they appear in distant organs. Some sources suggest that a substantial share of the cases may be late complications of surgeries such as myomectomy or hysterectomy. Particularly laparoscopic myomectomy using a morcellator has been associated with an increased risk of this complication.{{cite journal | vauthors = Cucinella G, Granese R, Calagna G, Somigliana E, Perino A | title = Parasitic myomas after laparoscopic surgery: An emerging complication in the use of morcellator? Description of four cases | journal = Fertility and Sterility | volume = 96 | issue = 2 | pages = e90–e96 | year = 2011 | pmid = 21719004 | doi = 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.05.095 | hdl = 10447/77912 | doi-access = free | hdl-access = free }}{{cite journal | vauthors = Nezhat C, Kho K | title = Iatrogenic Myomas: New Class of Myomas? | journal = Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology | volume = 17 | issue = 5 | pages = 544–550 | year = 2010 | pmid = 20580324 | doi = 10.1016/j.jmig.2010.04.004 }}{{cite web|title=FDA Updated Assessment of The Use of Laparoscopic Power Morcellators to Treat Uterine Fibroids|website=Food and Drug Administration|url=https://www.fda.gov/downloads/MedicalDevices/ProductsandMedicalProcedures/SurgeryandLifeSupport/UCM584539.pdf|access-date=23 December 2017}}

There are a number of rare conditions in which fibroids metastasize. They still grow in a benign fashion, but can be dangerous depending on their location.{{cite book |title=Fletcher's Diagnostic Histopathology of Tumors |pages=692–4 |edition=3rd }}

• In leiomyoma with vascular invasion, an ordinary-appearing fibroid invades into a vessel but there is no risk of recurrence.
• In intravenous leiomyomatosis, leiomyomata grow in veins with uterine fibroids as their source. Involvement of the heart can be fatal.
• In benign metastasizing leiomyoma, leiomyomata grow in more distant sites such as the lungs and lymph nodes. The source is not entirely clear. Pulmonary involvement can be fatal.
• In disseminated intraperitoneal leiomyomatosis, leiomyomata grow diffusely on the peritoneal and omental surfaces, with uterine fibroids as their source. This can simulate a malignant tumor but behaves benignly.

File:Multiple uterine leiomyoma.jpg

File:Sub-serosal uterine fibroid.jpg

File:Multiple uterine leiomyoma with calcification.jpg

Fibroids are monoclonal tumors and approximately 40–50% show karyotypically detectable chromosomal abnormalities. When multiple fibroids are present they frequently have unrelated genetic defects. Specific mutations of the MED12 protein have been noted in 70 percent of fibroids.{{cite journal | vauthors = Mäkinen N, Mehine M, Tolvanen J, Kaasinen E, Li Y, Lehtonen HJ, Gentile M, Yan J, Enge M, Taipale M, Aavikko M, Katainen R, Virolainen E, Böhling T, Koski TA, Launonen V, Sjöberg J, Taipale J, Vahteristo P, Aaltonen LA| title = MED12, the Mediator Complex Subunit 12 Gene, is Mutated at High Frequency in Uterine Leiomyomas | journal = Science | volume = 334 | issue = 6053 | pages = 252–255 | year = 2011 | pmid = 21868628 | doi = 10.1126/science.1208930 | bibcode = 2011Sci...334..252M | s2cid = 20288929 | doi-access = free }}

The exact cause of fibroids is not clearly understood, but the current working hypothesis is that genetic predispositions, prenatal hormone exposure and the effects of hormones, growth factors and xenoestrogens cause fibroid growth. Known risk factors are African descent, obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome, diabetes, hypertension, and never having given birth.{{cite journal | vauthors = Okolo S | title = Incidence, aetiology and epidemiology of uterine fibroids | journal = Best Practice & Research. Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology | volume = 22 | issue = 4 | pages = 571–588 | year = 2008 | pmid = 18534913 | doi = 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2008.04.002 }}

It is believed that estrogen and progesterone have a mitogenic effect on leiomyoma cells and also act by influencing (directly and indirectly) a large number of growth factors, cytokines and apoptotic factors as well as other hormones. Furthermore, the actions of estrogen and progesterone are modulated by the cross-talk between estrogen, progesterone and prolactin signaling which controls the expression of the respective nuclear receptors. It is believed that estrogen promotes growth by up-regulating IGF-1, EGFR, TGF-beta1, TGF-beta3 and PDGF, and promotes aberrant survival of leiomyoma cells by down-regulating p53, increasing expression of the anti-apoptotic factor PCP4 and antagonizing PPAR-gamma signaling. Progesterone is thought to promote the growth of leiomyoma through up-regulating EGF, TGF-beta1 and TGF-beta3, and promotes survival through up-regulating Bcl-2 expression and down-regulating TNF-alpha. Progesterone is believed to counteract growth by downregulating IGF-1.{{cite journal | vauthors = Maruo T, Ohara N, Wang J, Matsuo H | title = Sex steroidal regulation of uterine leiomyoma growth and apoptosis | journal = Human Reproduction Update | volume = 10 | issue = 3 | pages = 207–220 | year = 2004 | pmid = 15140868 | doi = 10.1093/humupd/dmh019 | doi-access = free }} Expression of transforming growth interacting factor (TGIF) is increased in leiomyoma compared with myometrium.{{cite journal | vauthors = Yen-Ping Ho J, Man WC, Wen Y, Polan ML, Shih-Chu Ho E, Chen B | title = Transforming growth interacting factor expression in leiomyoma compared with myometrium | journal = Fertil. Steril. | volume = 94 | issue = 3 | pages = 1078–83 | date = June 2009 | pmid = 19524896 | pmc = 2888713 | doi = 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.05.001 }} TGIF is a potential repressor of TGF-β pathways in myometrial cells.

Aromatase and 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase are aberrantly expressed in fibroids, indicating that fibroids can convert circulating androstenedione into estradiol.{{cite journal | vauthors = Shozu M, Murakami K, Inoue M | title = Aromatase and Leiomyoma of the Uterus | journal = Seminars in Reproductive Medicine | volume = 22 | issue = 1 | pages = 51–60 | year = 2004 | pmid = 15083381 | doi = 10.1055/s-2004-823027 | s2cid = 260319833 }} Similar mechanism of action has been elucidated in endometriosis and other endometrial diseases.{{cite journal |author-link1=Serdar Bulun | vauthors =Bulun SE, Yang S, Fang Z, Gurates B, Tamura M, Zhou J, Sebastian S | title = Role of aromatase in endometrial disease | journal = The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology | volume = 79 | issue = 1–5 | pages = 19–25 | year = 2001 | pmid = 11850203 | doi = 10.1016/S0960-0760(01)00134-0 | s2cid =7642211 }} Aromatase inhibitors are currently considered for treatment, at

certain doses they would completely inhibit estrogen production in the fibroid while not largely affecting ovarian production of estrogen (and thus systemic levels of it). Aromatase overexpression is particularly pronounced in African-American women.{{cite journal | vauthors = Moravek MB, Yin P, Ono M, Coon JS, Dyson MT, Navarro A, Marsh EE, Chakravarti D, Kim JJ, Wei JJ, Bulun SE | title = Ovarian steroids, stem cells and uterine leiomyoma: therapeutic implications | journal = Hum Reprod Update | volume = 21 | issue = 1 | pages = 1–12 | date = 2015 | pmid = 25205766 | pmc = 4255606 | doi = 10.1093/humupd/dmu048 }}

Genetic and hereditary causes are being considered and several epidemiologic findings indicate considerable genetic influence especially for early onset cases. First degree relatives have a 2.5-fold risk, and nearly 6-fold risk when considering early onset cases. Monozygotic twins have double concordance rate for hysterectomy compared to dizygotic twins.{{cite journal | vauthors = Hodge JC, Morton CC | title = Genetic heterogeneity among uterine leiomyomata: insights into malignant progression | journal = Human Molecular Genetics | volume = 16 Spec No 1 | pages = R7–13 | year = 2007 | pmid = 17613550 | doi = 10.1093/hmg/ddm043 | doi-access = free }}

Expansion of uterine fibroids occurs by a slow rate of cell proliferation combined with the production of copious amounts of extracellular matrix.

A small population of the cells in a uterine fibroid have properties of stem cells or progenitor cells, and contribute significantly to ovarian steroid-dependent growth of fibroids. These stem-progenitor cells are deficient in estrogen receptor α and progesterone receptor and instead rely on substantially higher levels of these receptors in surrounding differentiated cells to mediate estrogen and progesterone actions via paracrine signaling.

Physical examination and ultrasound are sufficient for diagnosing uterine fibroids in the majority of people. When ultrasound findings are inconclusive, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be able to confirm the diagnosis of uterine fibroids in most cases. In addition, MRI can identify benign uterine fibroids with atypical imaging features and fibroids with variant growth patterns. MRI can also identify other uterine (e.g. adenomyosis, endometrial polyps, endometrial cancer) and extrauterine (e.g. benign and malignant ovarian tumors, endometriosis) disorders that may mimic the appearance of uterine fibroids and/or contribute to the patient's symptoms. However, a small proportion of uterine fibroids can mimic other malignant uterine tumors (e.g. leiomyosarcoma) on all available imaging modalities (e.g. ultrasound, CT, MRI and PET-CT).{{cite journal | vauthors = Awiwi MO, Badawy M, Shaaban AM, Menias CO, Horowitz JM, Soliman M, Jensen CT, Gaballah AH, Ibarra-Rovira JJ, Feldman MK, Wang MX, Liu PS, Elsayes KM| title = Review of uterine fibroids: imaging of typical and atypical features, variants, and mimics with emphasis on workup and FIGO classification | journal = Abdom Radiol (NY) | volume = 47 | issue = 7 | pages = 2468–2485 | date = July 2022 | pmid = 35554629 | doi = 10.1007/s00261-022-03545-x | s2cid=248725335 }}

Malignant tumors of the uterine wall (e.g. leiomyosarcoma) are very rare. Findings suggestive of a malignant uterine tumor rather than a benign fibroid include, fast or unexpected growth (particularly after menopause), interruption/effacement of the endometrial stripe, lymph node enlargement, invasion of adjacent organs and metastases to distant organs (e.g. lung). MRI findings suggestive of a malignancy include nodular/ill-circumscribed tumor margins, intermediate/high T2-weighted signal intensity of the solid tumor components, regions with high signal T1-weighted sequences in keeping with subacute hemorrhage, fine/wispy enhancement of the solid parts of the tumor, and restricted diffusion on diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI). A biopsy is rarely performed and if performed, is rarely diagnostic. Should there be an uncertain diagnosis after ultrasounds and MRI imaging, surgery is generally indicated.{{Cite web |title=Uterine fibroids - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic |url=https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/uterine-fibroids/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354294 |access-date=2022-10-08 |website=www.mayoclinic.org}}

File:9cmFibroidPelvicCongestionS.png|A very large (9 cm) fibroid of the uterus which is causing pelvic congestion syndrome as seen on CT

File:9cmFibroidUS.png|A very large (9 cm) fibroid of the uterus which is causing pelvic congestion syndrome as seen on ultrasound

File:Leiomyoma of the Uterus.jpg|A relatively large submucosal leiomyoma; it fills out the major part of the endometrial cavity.

File:UterineFirboid.png|A small uterine fibroid seen within the wall of the myometrium on a cross-sectional ultrasound view

File:Calcifiedfibroids.PNG|Two calcified fibroids (in the uterus)

File:Subserosal uterine fibroid.png|A subserosal uterine fibroid with a diameter of 5 centimeters

File:Pelvic MRI 05 fibroids.jpg|MRI image with multiple uterine leiomyomas

File:Giant Myoma.jpg|Giant leiomyomas almost filling the abdomen

File:Histopathology of uterine leiomyoma.jpg|Histopathology of uterine fibroids typically show smooth muscle in a whorled (fascicular) pattern.{{cite web|url=http://www.pathologyoutlines.com/topic/uterusleiomyoma.html|title=Uterus - Stromal tumors - Leiomyoma|author=Mohamed Mokhtar Desouki|website=pathology Outlines}} Topic Completed: 1 August 2011. Revised: 15 December 2019

File:Histopathology of uterine leiomyoma (Van Gieson's stain).jpg|This variant of Van Gieson's stain distinguishes muscle (yellow) from connective tissue (red).

File:Beta-catenin immunohistochemistry in leiomyoma.jpg|Immunohistochemistry for β-catenin in uterine leiomyoma, which is negative as there is only staining of cytoplasm but not of cell nuclei.

Negative immunohistochemistry staining for β-catenin in cell nuclei is a consistent finding in uterine leiomyomas, and helps in distinguishing such tumors from β-catenin positive spindle cell tumors.{{cite journal| author=El Sabeh M, Saha SK, Afrin S, Islam MS, Borahay MA| title=Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in uterine leiomyoma: role in tumor biology and targeting opportunities. | journal=Mol Cell Biochem | year= 2021 | volume= 476 | issue= 9 | pages= 3513-3536 | pmid=33999334 | doi=10.1007/s11010-021-04174-6 | pmc=9235413 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=33999334 }}

Fibroids that lead to heavy vaginal bleeding lead to anemia and iron deficiency. Due to pressure effects gastrointestinal problems such as constipation and bloatedness are possible. Compression of the ureter may lead to hydronephrosis. Fibroids may also present alongside endometriosis, which itself may cause infertility. Adenomyosis may be mistaken for or coexist with fibroids.

In very rare cases, malignant (cancerous) growths, leiomyosarcoma, of the myometrium can develop.{{cite web | url = http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Fibroids/Pages/Introduction.aspx?url=Pages/What-is-it.aspx | title = Fibroids | publisher = U.K. National Health Service | work = NHS Choices | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080505005558/http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Fibroids/Pages/Introduction.aspx?url=Pages%2FWhat-is-it.aspx | archive-date = 2008-05-05 | date = 2017-10-19 }} In extremely rare cases uterine fibroids may present as part or early symptom of the hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer syndrome.

Most fibroids do not require treatment unless they are causing symptoms. After menopause, fibroids shrink, and it is unusual for them to cause problems.

Uterine fibroids that cause symptoms can be treated by:

• medication to control symptoms (i.e., symptomatic management)
• medication aimed at shrinking tumors
• ultrasound fibroid destruction
• surgical removal of fibroids (myomectomy) or using heat to reduce size (radiofrequency ablation)
• surgical removal of the womb (hysterectomy)
• blocking the blood supply of fibroids (uterine artery embolization)

In those who have symptoms, uterine artery embolization and surgical options have similar outcomes with respect to satisfaction.{{cite journal | vauthors = Gupta JK, Sinha A, Lumsden MA, Hickey M | title = Uterine artery embolization for symptomatic uterine fibroids. | journal = The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews | volume = 12 | issue = 12 | pages = CD005073 | date = 26 December 2014 | pmid = 25541260 | doi=10.1002/14651858.CD005073.pub4| pmc = 11285296 }}

For decades, a common approach to treating symptomatic fibroids was "either get a hysterectomy or wait until menopause diminishes the symptoms," but minimally invasive (small incision) and noninvasive (no incision) options were often not offered.{{cite news |vauthors = Cimons M |title=Fibroids are serious. Surgery isn't the only way to stop them. Many women are not told about noninvasive treatments that don't affect fertility. Experts want to change that. |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2022/12/11/fibroid-treatment-options/ |access-date=2022-12-11 |newspaper=Washington Post |date=2022-12-11}} Especially since the 2010s, minimally invasive and noninvasive options are increasingly being offered as they have advanced on their technological journey from being new and unusual to being common clinical practice.

A number of medications may be used to control symptoms. Painkillers (NSAIDs) can be used to reduce painful menstrual periods. Oral contraceptive pills may be prescribed to reduce uterine bleeding and cramps. Anemia may be treated with iron supplementation.

Levonorgestrel intrauterine devices are effective in limiting menstrual blood flow and improving other symptoms. Side effects are typically few as the levonorgestrel (a progestin) is released in low concentration locally.{{cite journal | vauthors = Zapata LB, Whiteman MK, Tepper NK, Jamieson DJ, Marchbanks PA, Curtis KM | title = Intrauterine device use among women with uterine fibroids: a systematic review☆ | journal = Contraception | volume = 82 | issue = 1 | pages = 41–55 | year = 2010 | pmid = 20682142 | doi = 10.1016/j.contraception.2010.02.011 }} While most levongestrel-IUD studies concentrated on treatment of women without fibroids a few reported good results specifically for women with fibroids including a substantial regression of fibroids.{{cite journal | vauthors = Kailasam C, Cahill D | title = Review of the safety, efficacy and patient acceptability of the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system | journal = Patient Preference and Adherence | volume = 2 | pages = 293–302 | year = 2008 | pmid = 19920976 | pmc = 2770406 | doi = 10.2147/ppa.s3464 | doi-access = free }}

Cabergoline in a moderate and well-tolerated dose has been shown in two studies to shrink fibroids effectively. The mechanism of action responsible for how cabergoline shrinks fibroids is unclear.

Ulipristal acetate is a synthetic selective progesterone receptor modulator (SPRM) that has tentative evidence to support its use for presurgical treatment of fibroids with low side-effects.{{cite journal | vauthors = Talaulikar VS, Manyonda IT | title = Ulipristal acetate: a novel option for the medical management of symptomatic uterine fibroids | journal = Adv Ther | volume = 29 | issue = 8 | pages = 655–63 | date = August 2012 | pmid = 22903240 | doi = 10.1007/s12325-012-0042-8 | s2cid=25905881}} Long-term UPA-treated fibroids have shown volume reduction of about 70%.{{cite journal | vauthors = Pérez-López FR | title = Ulipristal acetate in the management of symptomatic uterine fibroids: facts and pending issues | journal = Climacteric | volume = 18 | issue = 2 | pages = 177–81 | date = April 2015 | pmid = 25390187 | doi = 10.3109/13697137.2014.981133 | s2cid=25077228}} In some cases UPA alone is used to relieve symptoms without surgery,{{cite journal | vauthors = Donnez J, Tomaszewski J, Vázquez F, Bouchard P, Lemieszczuk B, Baró F, Nouri K, Selvaggi L, Sodowski K, Bestel E, Terrill P, Osterloh I, Loumaye E | title = Ulipristal acetate versus leuprolide acetate for uterine fibroids | journal = N Engl J Med | volume = 366 | issue = 5 | pages = 421–32 | date = February 2012 | pmid = 22296076 | doi = 10.1056/NEJMoa1103180 | doi-access=free}} and to allow successful pregnancies without fibroid regrowth.{{cite journal | vauthors = Luyckx M, Squifflet JL, Jadoul P, Votino R, Dolmans MM, Donnez J | title = First series of 18 pregnancies after ulipristal acetate treatment for uterine fibroids | journal = Fertil Steril | volume = 102 | issue = 5 | pages = 1404–9 | date = November 2014 | pmid = 25241376 | doi = 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.07.1253 | doi-access = free }} Indeed, in the tumor cells, the molecule blocks the cell proliferation, induces their apoptosis{{cite journal | vauthors = Courtoy GE, Donnez J, Marbaix E, Dolmans MM | title = In vivo mechanisms of uterine myoma volume reduction with ulipristal acetate treatment | journal = Fertil Steril | volume = 104 | issue = 2 | pages = 426–34.e1 | date = August 2015 | pmid = 26003270 | doi = 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.04.025 | doi-access=free}}{{cite journal | vauthors = Courtoy GE, Donnez J, Ambroise J, Arriagada P, Luyckx M, Marbaix E, Dolmans MM | title = Gene expression changes in uterine myomas in response to ulipristal acetate treatment | journal = Reprod Biomed Online | volume = 37 | issue = 2 | pages = 224–233 | date = August 2018 | pmid = 29807764 | doi = 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.04.050 |s2cid=44106868}} and stimulates the remodeling of the extensive fibrosis by matrix metalloproteinases,{{cite journal | vauthors = Courtoy GE, Henriet P, Marbaix E, de Codt M, Luyckx M, Donnez J, Dolmans MM | title = Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity Correlates With Uterine Myoma Volume Reduction After Ulipristal Acetate Treatment | journal = J Clin Endocrinol Metab | volume = 103 | issue = 4 | pages = 1566–1573 | date = April 2018 | pmid = 29408988 | doi = 10.1210/jc.2017-02295 | doi-access=free}} hence explaining the long-term benefit.{{cite journal | vauthors = Donnez J, Donnez O, Matule D, Ahrendt HJ, Hudecek R, Zatik J, Kasilovskiene Z, Dumitrascu MC, Fernandez H, Barlow DH, Bouchard P, Fauser BC, Bestel E, Loumaye E| title = Long-term medical management of uterine fibroids with ulipristal acetate | journal = Fertil Steril | volume = 105 | issue = 1 | pages = 165–173.e4 | date = January 2016 | pmid = 26477496 | doi = 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.09.032 | doi-access=free}} Yet, due to some rare but severe hepatic injuries after UPA treatment, the licence was suspended in 2020 in the EU{{Cite web|title=European Medicament Agency|url=https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/referrals/ulipristal-acetate-5mg-medicinal-products}} and voluntary removed in Canada.{{Cite web|vauthors = ((Government of Canada)),((Health Canada))|date=2020-09-16|title=Allergan Inc. voluntarily withdraws its drug Fibristal, used to treat uterine fibroids, from the Canadian market|url=https://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/hc-sc/2020/73939a-eng.php|access-date=2021-03-17|website=healthycanadians.gc.ca}}

Danazol is an effective treatment to shrink fibroids and control symptoms. Its use is limited by unpleasant side effects. Mechanism of action is thought to be antiestrogenic effects. Recent experience indicates that safety and side effect profile can be improved by more cautious dosing.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs cause temporary regression of fibroids by decreasing estrogen levels. Because of the limitations and side effects of this medication, it is rarely recommended other than for preoperative use to shrink the size of the fibroids and uterus before surgery. It is typically used for a maximum of six months or less because after longer use they could cause osteoporosis and other typically postmenopausal complications. The main side effects are transient postmenopausal symptoms. In many cases the fibroids will regrow after cessation of treatment, however, significant benefits may persist for much longer in some cases. Several variations are possible, such as GnRH agonists with add-back regimens intended to decrease the adverse effects of estrogen deficiency. Several add-back regimes are possible, tibolone, raloxifene, progestogens alone, estrogen alone, and combined estrogens and progestogens.{{cite journal | vauthors = Sankaran S, Manyonda IT | title = Medical management of fibroids | journal = Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol | volume = 22 | issue = 4 | pages = 655–76 | date = August 2008 | pmid = 18468953 | doi = 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2008.03.001 }}

Progesterone antagonists such as mifepristone have been tested, there is evidence that it relieves some symptoms and improves quality of life but because of adverse histological changes that have been observed in several trials it can not be currently recommended outside of research setting.{{cite journal | vauthors = Tristan M, Orozco LJ, Steed A, Ramírez-Morera A, Stone P | title = Mifepristone for uterine fibroids | journal = Cochrane Database Syst Rev | volume = 2012 | issue = 8 | pages = CD007687 | date = August 2012 | pmid = 22895965 | pmc = 8212859 | doi = 10.1002/14651858.CD007687.pub2 }} Fibroid growth has recurred after antiprogestin treatment was stopped.

Aromatase inhibitors have been used experimentally to reduce fibroids. The effect is believed to be due partially by lowering systemic estrogen levels and partially by inhibiting locally overexpressed aromatase in fibroids. However, fibroid growth has recurred after treatment was stopped. Experience from experimental aromatase inhibitor treatment of endometriosis indicates that aromatase inhibitors might be particularly useful in combination with a progestogenic ovulation inhibitor.

Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is a noninvasive procedure that blocks blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink.{{cite web | url = http://femisa.org.uk/index.php/treatment-options/embolisation/whats-involved | title = The Embolisation Process | publisher = FEmISA: Fibroid Embolisation: Information, Support, Advice | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140531053717/http://www.femisa.org.uk/index.php/treatment-options/embolisation/whats-involved | archive-date = 2014-05-31 }} Long-term outcomes with respect to how happy people are with the procedure are similar to that of surgery. There is tentative evidence that traditional surgery may result in better fertility. One review found that UAE doubles the future risk of miscarriage.{{cite journal | vauthors = Homer H, Saridogan E | title = Uterine artery embolization for fibroids is associated with an increased risk of miscarriage | journal = Fertil Steril | volume = 94 | issue = 1 | pages = 324–30 | date = June 2010 | pmid = 19361799 | doi = 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.02.069 | doi-access = free }} UAE also appears to require more repeat procedures than if surgery was done initially.{{cite journal | vauthors = Gupta JK, Sinha A, Lumsden MA, Hickey M | title = Uterine artery embolization for symptomatic uterine fibroids | journal = Cochrane Database Syst Rev | volume = | issue = 12 | pages = CD005073 | date = December 2014 | pmid = 25541260 | doi = 10.1002/14651858.CD005073.pub4 | pmc = 11285296 }} A person will usually recover from the procedure within a few days.

Uterine artery ligation, sometimes also laparoscopic occlusion of uterine arteries are minimally invasive methods to limit blood supply of the uterus by a small surgery that can be performed transvaginally or laparoscopically. The principal mechanism of action may be similar like in UAE but is easier to perform and fewer side effects are expected.{{cite journal | vauthors = Liu WM, Ng HT, Wu YC, Yen YK, Yuan CC | title = Laparoscopic bipolar coagulation of uterine vessels: a new method for treating symptomatic fibroids | journal = Fertility and Sterility | volume = 75 | issue = 2 | pages = 417–22 | year = 2001 | pmid = 11172850 | doi = 10.1016/S0015-0282(00)01724-6 | doi-access = free }}{{Primary source inline|date=May 2015}}{{cite journal | vauthors = Akinola OI, Fabamwo AO, Ottun AT, Akinniyi OA | title = Uterine artery ligation for management of uterine fibroids | journal = International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics | volume = 91 | issue = 2 | pages = 137–40 | year = 2005 | pmid = 16168993 | doi = 10.1016/j.ijgo.2005.07.012 | s2cid = 8042317 }}{{Primary source inline|date=May 2015}}

The 2016 NICE (National Institute of Clinical Excellence – the non governmental public body that publishes guidelines in the use of health technologies and good clinical practice in the United Kingdom) guidelines state UAE/UFE can be offered to people with symptomatic fibroids (fibroids being usually >30mm in size). Patients should be informed that UAE and myomectomy (the surgical removal of fibroids) may potentially allow them to retain their fertility.{{cite web |title= Uterine Fibroid Embolisation Africa |url= http://www.fibroidcare.co.za/fibroids-treatment-south-africa/|date= 2017-02-23}}

Myomectomy is a surgery to remove one or more fibroids. It is usually recommended when more conservative treatment options fail for patients who want fertility preserving surgery or who want to retain the uterus.{{cite journal | vauthors = Metwally M, Raybould G, Cheong YC, Horne AW | title = Surgical treatment of fibroids for subfertility | journal = Cochrane Database Syst Rev | volume = 1 | issue = 1 | pages = CD003857 | date = January 2020 | pmid = 31995657 | pmc = 6989141 | doi = 10.1002/14651858.CD003857.pub4 }}

There are three types of myomectomy:

• In a hysteroscopic myomectomy (also called transcervical resection), the fibroid can be removed by either the use of a resectoscope, an endoscopic instrument inserted through the vagina and cervix that can use high-frequency electrical energy to cut tissue, or a similar device.
• A laparoscopic myomectomy is done through a small incision near the navel. The physician uses a laparoscope and surgical instruments to remove the fibroids. Studies have suggested that laparoscopic myomectomy leads to lower morbidity rates and faster recovery than does laparotomic myomectomy.{{cite journal | vauthors = Agdi M, Tulandi T | title = Endoscopic management of uterine fibroids | journal = Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol | volume = 22 | issue = 4 | pages = 707–16 | date = August 2008 | pmid = 18325839 | doi = 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2008.01.011 }}
• A laparotomic myomectomy (also known as an open or abdominal myomectomy) is the most invasive surgical procedure to remove fibroids. The physician makes an incision in the abdominal wall and removes the fibroids from the uterus.

Laparoscopic myomectomy has less pain and shorter time in hospital than open surgery.{{cite journal | vauthors = Bhave Chittawar P, Franik S, Pouwer AW, Farquhar C | title = Minimally invasive surgical techniques versus open myomectomy for uterine fibroids. | journal = The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews | volume = 10 | issue = 10 | pages = CD004638 | date = Oct 21, 2014 | pmid = 25331441 | doi = 10.1002/14651858.CD004638.pub3 | doi-access = free | pmc = 10961732 }} An analysis of 15,000 patients found that those who had myomectomy required fewer additional procedures to manage fibroids (including hysterectomies) over the next 5 years than those who had UAE.{{Cite journal |last1=Amoah |first1=Alison |last2=Quinn |first2=Stephen D. |date=1 June 2023 |title=Uterine-preserving treatments or hysterectomy reintervention after myomectomy or uterine artery embolisation: A retrospective cohort study of long-term outcomes |journal=BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology |language=en |volume=130 |issue=7 |pages=823–831 |doi=10.1111/1471-0528.17412 |pmid=36706789 |s2cid=256325720 |issn=1470-0328|doi-access=free }}{{Cite journal |date=22 September 2023 |title=Surgical removal of fibroids has better long-term outcomes than blocking blood vessels |url=https://evidence.nihr.ac.uk/alert/surgical-removal-of-fibroids-has-better-long-term-outcomes-than-blocking-blood-vessels/ |journal=NIHR Evidence|doi=10.3310/nihrevidence_59961 |s2cid=262209805 }}

Hysterectomy was the classical method of treating fibroids. Although it is now recommended only as last option, fibroids are still the leading cause of hysterectomies in the US.

Endometrial ablation can be used if the fibroids are only within the uterus and not intramural and relatively small. High failure and recurrence rates are expected in the presence of larger or intramural fibroids.

Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive treatments for fibroids.{{cite news| url = https://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052748704541004575010933671115028 | work=The Wall Street Journal | vauthors = Beck M|title=A New Treatment to Help Women Avoid Hysterectomy | date=2010-01-20 }} In this technique the fibroid is shrunk by inserting a needle-like device into the fibroid through the abdomen and heating it with radio-frequency (RF) electrical energy to cause necrosis of cells. The treatment is a potential option for people who have fibroids, have completed child-bearing and want to avoid a hysterectomy.

Magnetic resonance guided focused ultrasound, is a non-invasive intervention (requiring no incision) that uses high intensity focused ultrasound waves to destroy tissue in combination with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which guides and monitors the treatment. During the procedure, delivery of focused ultrasound energy is guided and controlled using MR thermal imaging.{{cite press release |title=FDA Approves New Device to Treat Uterine Fibroids |publisher=FDA |date=2004-10-22 |url=https://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/answers/2004/ans01319.html |access-date=2008-05-26 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080509121437/https://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/ANSWERS/2004/ANS01319.html |archive-date=2008-05-09 }} Patients who have symptomatic fibroids, who desire a non-invasive treatment option and who do not have contraindications for MRI are candidates for MRgFUS. About 60% of patients qualify. It is an outpatient procedure and takes one to three hours depending on the size of the fibroids. It is safe and about 75% effective.{{cite journal | vauthors = Shen SH, Fennessy F, McDannold N, Jolesz F, Tempany C | title = Image-guided thermal therapy of uterine fibroids | journal = Semin Ultrasound CT MR | volume = 30 | issue = 2 | pages = 91–104 | date = April 2009 | pmid = 19358440 | pmc = 2768544 | doi = 10.1053/j.sult.2008.12.002 }} Symptomatic improvement is sustained for two plus years.{{cite journal | vauthors = Stewart EA, Rabinovici J, Tempany CM, Inbar Y, Regan L, Gostout B, Gastout B, Hesley G, Kim HS, Hengst S, Gedroyc WM, Gedroye WM | title = Clinical outcomes of focused ultrasound surgery for the treatment of uterine fibroids | journal = Fertil. Steril. | volume = 85 | issue = 1 | pages = 22–9 | date = January 2006 | pmid = 16412721 | doi = 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2005.04.072 | doi-access = free }} Need for additional treatment varies from 16 to 20% and is largely dependent on the amount of fibroid that can be safely ablated; the higher the ablated volume, the lower the re-treatment rate.{{cite journal | vauthors = Kurashvili J, Stepanov A, Kulabuchova E, Batarshina O | title = Abstracts of the 2nd European symposium on focused ultrasound therapy | journal = J Ther Ultrasound | volume = 2 | issue = Suppl 1 | pages = A1–A25 | date = 2014 | pmid = 25932673 | pmc = 4292016 | doi = 10.1186/2050-5736-2-s1-a1 | doi-access = free }} There are currently no randomized trial between MRgFUS and UAE. A multi-center trial is underway to investigate the efficacy of MRgFUS vs. UAE.

About 1 out of 1,000 lesions are or become malignant, typically as a leiomyosarcoma on histology. A sign that a lesion may be malignant is growth after menopause. There is no consensus among pathologists regarding the transformation of leiomyoma into a sarcoma.

There are a number of rare conditions in which fibroids metastasize, for example extrauterine fibroids. They still grow in a benign fashion, but can be dangerous depending on their location.

About 20% to 80% of women develop fibroids by the age of 50. Globally in 2013 it was estimated that 171 million women were affected. They are typically found during the middle and later reproductive years. After menopause they usually decrease in size. Surgery to remove uterine fibroids occurs more frequently in women in "higher social classes". Adolescents develop uterine fibroids much less frequently than older women.{{cite journal | vauthors = Moroni RM, Vieira CS, Ferriani RA, Reis RM, Nogueira AA, Brito LG | title = Presentation and treatment of uterine leiomyoma in adolescence: a systematic review | journal = BMC Women's Health | volume = 15 | issue = | pages = 4 | date = January 2015 | pmid = 25609056 | pmc = 4308853 | doi = 10.1186/s12905-015-0162-9 | doi-access = free }} Up to 50% of people with uterine fibroids have no symptoms. The prevalence of uterine fibroids among teenagers is 0.4%.

The incidence of uterine fibroids in Europe is thought to be lower than the incidence in the US.

Eighty percent of African American women will develop benign uterine fibroid tumors by their late 40s, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.{{cite news|title=Helping Black Women Recognize, Treat Fibroids|url=https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=89344394|work=NPR|access-date=30 March 2011|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120122034237/http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=89344394|archive-date=22 January 2012}} African American women are two to three times more likely to get fibroids than Caucasian women.{{MerckManual|18|248|a||Uterine Fibroids}}{{cite web|title=African American Women and Fibroids|url=http://www.blackwomenshealthproject.org/aafibroids.htm|work=Philadelphia Black Women's Health Project|access-date=30 March 2011|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110401103111/http://www.blackwomenshealthproject.org/aafibroids.htm|archive-date=1 April 2011}} In African American women fibroids seem to occur at a younger age, grow more quickly, and are more likely to cause symptoms.{{cite web|title=Minority Women's Health|url=http://www.womenshealth.gov/minority/africanamerican/uterine-fibroids.cfm|publisher=Women's Health.gov|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100830094025/http://www.womenshealth.gov/minority/africanamerican/uterine-fibroids.cfm|archive-date=2010-08-30}} This leads to higher rates of surgery for African Americans, both myomectomy, and hysterectomy.{{cite news|title=Black Women and High Prevalence of Fibroids|url=http://www.fibroids.com/news-blog/2010/11/black-women-fibroids/|access-date=30 March 2011|newspaper=Fibroid Treatment Collective|date=November 29, 2010|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101225055411/http://www.fibroids.com/news-blog/2010/11/black-women-fibroids/|archive-date=25 December 2010}} Increased risk of fibroids in African Americans causes them to fare worse in in-vitro fertility treatments and raises their risk of premature births and delivery by Caesarean section.

It is unclear why fibroids are more common in African American women. Some studies suggest that black women who are obese and who have high blood pressure are more likely to have fibroids. Other suggested causes include the tendency of African American women to consume food with less than the daily requirements for vitamin D.

The 2005 S.1289 bill was read twice and referred to the committee on Health, Labor, and Pensions but never passed for a Senate or House vote; the proposed Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act of 2005 mentioned that $5 billion is spent annually on hysterectomy surgeries each year, which affect 22% of African Americans and 7% of Caucasian women. The bill also called for more funding for research and educational purposes. It also states that of the $28 billion issued to NIH, $5 million was allocated for uterine fibroids in 2004.[http://officeofbudget.od.nih.gov/pdfs/FY11/Approp.%20History%20by%20IC%20(FINAL).pdf Office of Budget (PDF)]{{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110930061942/http://officeofbudget.od.nih.gov/pdfs/FY11/Approp.%20History%20by%20IC%20%28FINAL%29.pdf |date=2011-09-30 }}{{full citation needed|date=October 2014}}

Uterine fibroids are rare in other mammals, although they have been observed in certain dogs and Baltic grey seals.{{cite journal | vauthors = Bäcklin BM, Eriksson L, Olovsson M | title = Histology of uterine leiomyoma and occurrence in relation to reproductive activity in the Baltic gray seal (Halichoerus grypus) | journal = Vet. Pathol. | volume = 40 | issue = 2 | pages = 175–80 | date = March 2003 | pmid = 12637757 | doi = 10.1354/vp.40-2-175 | doi-access = free }}

Selective progesterone receptor modulators, such as progenta, have been under investigation. Another selective progesterone receptor modulator asoprisnil is being tested with promising results as a possible use as a treatment for fibroids, intended to provide the advantages of progesterone antagonists without their adverse effects. Low dietary intake of vitamin D is associated with the development of uterine fibroids.{{cite journal | vauthors = Parazzini F, Di Martino M, Candiani M, Viganò P | title = Dietary components and uterine leiomyomas: a review of published data | journal = Nutr Cancer | volume = 67 | issue = 4 | pages = 569–79 | date = 2015 | pmid = 25826470 | doi = 10.1080/01635581.2015.1015746 | s2cid=35376265}}

Myomectomy and uterine artery embolisation seem to be equally effective in improving quality of life, as measured 4 years after surgery.{{Cite journal |date=2024-12-04 |title=Endometriosis, fibroids and heavy periods: long-term research supports treatment decisions |url=https://evidence.nihr.ac.uk/collection/endometriosis-fibroids-and-heavy-periods-long-term-research-supports-treatment-decisions/ |journal=NIHR Evidence |publisher=National Institute for Health and Care Research |doi=10.3310/nihrevidence_64953|doi-access=free }}{{Cite journal |last=Daniels |first=Jane |last2=Middleton |first2=Lee J |last3=Cheed |first3=Versha |last4=McKinnon |first4=William |last5=Rana |first5=Dikshyanta |last6=Sirkeci |first6=Fusun |last7=Manyonda |first7=Isaac |last8=Belli |first8=Anna-Maria |last9=Lumsden |first9=Mary Ann |last10=Moss |first10=Jonathan |last11=Wu |first11=Olivia |last12=McPherson |first12=Klim |date=April 2022 |title=Uterine artery embolisation versus myomectomy for premenopausal women with uterine fibroids wishing to avoid hysterectomy: the FEMME RCT |url=https://www.journalslibrary.nihr.ac.uk/hta/ZDEG6110 |journal=Health Technology Assessment |language=en |volume=26 |issue=22 |pages=1–74 |doi=10.3310/ZDEG6110 |issn=1366-5278 |pmc=9082260 |pmid=35435818}}

{{NoteFoot}}

{{Reflist}}

{{Medical resources

| DiseasesDB = 4806

| ICD10 = {{ICD10|D|25||d|10}}

| ICD9 = {{ICD9|218}}

| ICDO =

| OMIM = 150699

| MedlinePlus = 000914

| eMedicineSubj = radio

| eMedicineTopic = 777

| MeshID = D007889

}}

{{Commons category|Uterine fibroids}}

• [https://web.archive.org/web/20130318073355/http://fibroids.nichd.nih.gov/index.html NIH Fibroid Treatment Study: Information and NIH research]

{{Genital neoplasia}}

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{{DEFAULTSORT:Uterine Fibroids}}

Category:Gynaecological neoplasia

Category:Benign neoplasms

Category:Wikipedia medicine articles ready to translate

Category:Uterine tumour