Types of Uterine Fibroids

What are the different types of uterine fibroids?

If you have been diagnosed with uterine fibroids, it’s crucial to understand that there are four distinct types. These fibroids are typically categorized by their location and can differ in size and quantity, which can affect the severity of symptoms experienced. At our fibroid clinic, our specialists utilize the latest technology and methods to diagnose and treat all types of uterine fibroids. They offer Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), a minimally invasive procedure guided by imaging, to effectively shrink and minimize fibroids. UFE helps patients return to their usual activities and can greatly alleviate common fibroid symptoms.

The Four Categories of Uterine Fibroids.

The type of fibroids you have is determined by their location in the uterus. During a routine pelvic exam, your OBGYN can assess the size and shape of your uterus. An enlarged or irregularly shaped uterus often suggests the presence of fibroids. To precisely identify the type of fibroids, your physician will perform several tests.

Intramural Fibroids

Intramural fibroids develop within the uterine muscle walls and are the most frequently encountered type of fibroid. Because of their position, they can expand and cause the womb to stretch. Typical symptoms are prolonged heavy periods lasting over 10 days, irregular bleeding between cycles, and pelvic or lower back discomfort.

Intramural Fibroids

Subserosal Fibroids

Subserosal fibroids develop on the outer surface of the uterus, protruding into the pelvic or abdominal area. They may be connected to the uterus directly or by a slender stem known as a peduncle. Women with subserosal fibroids frequently face complications with nearby organs such as the bladder, rectum, or intestines.

Subserosal Fibroids

Submucosal Fibroids

Submucosal fibroids extend into the inner lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium. These fibroids can appear alone or in groups and often lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, anemia, dizziness, and fainting. Additional symptoms commonly associated with submucosal fibroids include bleeding between periods, frequent or large blood clots, and pelvic or back pain. If these fibroids protrude considerably into the uterine cavity, they may be removed through the vagina with a hysteroscope by your OBGYN.

Submucosal Fibroids

Pedunculated Fibroids

Pedunculated fibroids are a type of subserosal or submucosal fibroid that develop on a stalk, or peduncle, extending outside the uterine walls. These fibroids can lead to sharp, stabbing pains if they rotate on their stalk, disrupting their blood supply. Treatment options may involve using a camera from outside the body (laparoscopy) or from within the uterus (hysteroscopy), depending on their location.

Pedunculated Fibroids

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How are uterine fibroids detected?

Your OBGYN can often diagnose various types of uterine fibroids during a routine pelvic exam. You might also suspect you have fibroids if you’re experiencing certain symptoms. While not all fibroids produce symptoms, some can lead to pain, discomfort, or other issues, particularly if they are large. To accurately assess your fibroids and their severity, the fibroid clinic’s doctors may utilize several imaging tests. They might order the following tests to get a detailed view of your fibroids:

How Are Uterine Fibroids Managed?

If fibroids are not addressed, they can significantly affect your quality of life, causing issues like heavy menstrual bleeding and pain. Your gynecologist might suggest lifestyle adjustments, medications, or hormone therapies to alleviate symptoms and reduce fibroid size. However, if your symptoms worsen, a procedure might be necessary. Our physician specializes in Uterine Fibroid Embolization, a less invasive option compared to hysterectomy, and can treat all types of uterine fibroids. The appropriate treatment for your fibroids will depend on the following factors:

Earlier methods for treating uterine fibroids
Quantity and dimensions of fibroids
Goals concerning fertility
Severity of fibroid symptoms
The kind of fibroids you have
Age
Other existing health issues

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