About Uterine Fibroid Tumors
What is a Uterine Fibroid Tumor?
Fibroid tumors are benign (non-cancerous) growths. They appear on the muscular wall of the uterus. They range in size from microscopic to masses that fill the entire abdominal cavity. Fibroids consist of dense, fibrous tissue (hence the name 'fibroid' ) which are nourished and sustained by a series of blood vessels.
What are the symptoms?
While not cancerous, fibroids can cause problems. Common symptoms include:
Pelvic Pain
Excessive bleeding
Abdominal swelling
Pressure on the bowel or bladder
Infertility
You may experience no symptoms, but still need treatment.
Why do I have them?
No one knows. Fibroids affect 40% of all women in America and have a high rate of incidence among African Americans. There is a possible link between uterine fibroid tumors and estrogen production.
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