Uterine fibroids are the most common benign pelvic tumors in women, and often develop during a woman’s reproductive years. While some fibroids don’t produce any symptoms at all, others can cause debilitating symptoms, such as heavy, prolonged, and painful periods. A woman may have one or several types of fibroids, and the type of fibroid a woman develops depends on its location in or on the uterus.
Here are the four major types of uterine fibroids and the symptoms associated with each:
- Intramural Fibroids
Intramural fibroid tumors are the most common type of fibroid and typically develop within the uterine wall and expand from there. This type of fibroid can also cause excessive menstrual bleeding, prolonged menstrual cycles, clot passing, and pelvic pain due to the additional pressure placed on surrounding organs by fibroid growth. - Subserosal Fibroids
Subserosal fibroids typically develop on the outer uterine wall. The growth of a subserosal fibroid will put additional pressure on surrounding organs. Therefore, symptoms of subserosal fibroid tumors usually do not include abnormal or excessive menstrual bleeding or interfere with a woman’s typical menstrual flow. - Submucosal Fibroids
The least common of the various types of fibroid tumors are submucosal fibroids. These fibroids develop just under the lining of the uterine cavity. Large submucosal fibroids may increase the size of the uterine cavity and can block the fallopian tubes, which can cause complications with fertility. Some submucosal fibroids do not produce any symptoms at all, whereas others can be severely symptomatic. - Pedunculated Fibroids
Pedunculated uterine fibroids occur when a fibroid tumor grows on a stalk, resulting in pedunculated submucosal or subserosal fibroids. These fibroids can grow into the uterus and also can grow on the outside of the uterine wall. Symptoms associated with pedunculated fibroid tumors include pain and pressure as the fibroids can sometimes twist on the stalk.
If you’re interested in finding out whether you have fibroids and which types of fibroids you have, the first step is to be screened by a specialist. At Viva Eve, our fibroid experts can evaluate you and suggest the best course of treatment for your unique circumstances.
Treatment Options for You at Viva Eve
Located in New York City, our top-rated fibroid specialists are dedicated to providing you with comprehensive medical treatment options for fibroids. Patients receive thorough facts and candid conversation about procedures and treatment options.
Our uterine fibroid specialists can help you determine which fibroid treatment option is the best for you and your needs, regardless of which fibroid types you may have. With longer, in-depth appointments, and an all-in-1 facility that includes ultrasounds and labs for convenient treatment, we go above and beyond to ensure we deliver unmatched care.