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Image courtesy of BioSphere Medical
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The symptoms of uterine fibroids depend largely on their number, size and location.
Intramural fibroids, the most common, develop in the uterine wall and are associated with heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic and back pain. Their growth causes swelling of the abdomen, which can be mistaken for pregnancy.
Subserosal fibroids develop on the outer lining of the uterus and grow outward, where they can impinge on other organs.
Submucosal fibroids, the least common, develop within the uterus itself and cause heavy menstrual bleeding and prolonged periods.
Pedunculated fibroids grow on a stem or stalk and can occur in submucosal or subserosal fibroids. They can grow into the womb or on the outside of the uterus wall and cause pain or pressure.
