Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus, affecting millions of women during their reproductive years. While fibroids vary in size and symptoms, they are generally categorized into different types based on their location. Knowing the types of fibroids is important for understanding how they can affect your health and what treatment options may be best.

Subserosal Fibroids

Subserosal fibroids grow on the outer surface of the uterus. These fibroids can become quite large and may press on nearby organs like the bladder or bowel, leading to symptoms such as frequent urination, constipation, or pelvic pain. Because they develop outwardly, they usually don’t affect menstrual flow as much as other types but can cause significant discomfort depending on their size.

Intramural Fibroids

Intramural fibroids are the most common type, developing within the muscular wall of the uterus. They often cause heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, pelvic pressure, and sometimes fertility challenges. Since they grow inside the uterine wall, they can enlarge the uterus and contribute to an enlarged or bloated abdomen.

Submucosal Fibroids

Submucosal fibroids grow just beneath the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium). Though less common, they can cause some of the most severe symptoms, including very heavy bleeding, prolonged menstrual periods, and difficulty becoming pregnant. Even small submucosal fibroids can lead to significant reproductive issues and may require specialized treatment.

Pedunculated Fibroids

Pedunculated fibroids grow on a stalk-like structure either inside the uterine cavity or outside on the surface of the uterus. These fibroids can cause acute pain if the stalk becomes twisted, cutting off the fibroid’s blood supply. Depending on their location, they may also put pressure on nearby organs, leading to discomfort.

Understanding Symptoms and Treatment

The type of fibroid you have often determines the symptoms you experience. Common issues include heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, frequent urination, constipation, and fertility concerns. However, some fibroids cause no symptoms at all and are only discovered during routine checkups.

Treatment options vary depending on fibroid type, size, and severity of symptoms. Minimally invasive procedures like Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) offer effective relief without major surgery. UFE works by blocking the blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink and alleviating symptoms.

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of fibroids—subserosal, intramural, submucosal, and pedunculated—helps in recognizing symptoms and seeking the right treatment. If you’re experiencing fibroid-related problems, consulting a specialist can provide clarity and guide you toward effective treatment options that suit your lifestyle and health needs.

Types of Fibroids: Understanding the Differences