These non-cancerous masses are found in the uterus or cervix. Uterine fibroids are found in one out of every four or five women in their 30s and 40s. They can cause tubal blockages, prevent the embryo from attaching to the uterine wall and can cause miscarriage. The impact the fibroids have on fertility depends upon their size and location.
Painful and heavy periods are present in approximately one third of women with this condition. Other signals of fibroids include pressure or pelvic pain and the sensation of a mass. Diagnostic tools such as pelvic exams, pelvic ultrasound, hysterosalpingography, hysteroscopy, or laparoscopy can diagnose fibroids.
The cause of uterine fibroids is unclear, however there is evidence that estrogen is required for their growth. Estrogen is a female hormone that helps regulate the menstrual cycle and high levels have been known to stimulate the growth of fibroids.