Can uterine fibroids change over time?
Ask the doctor
Q. Do fibroids ever go away on their own? If you have no pain or no heavy bleeding, is there anything you can do to keep from getting more fibroids?
A. Fibroids are noncancerous tumors that grow from muscle cells in the wall of the uterus. Fibroids are very common, and are a leading reason for hysterectomy. But most women with fibroids have no symptoms and do not require treatment at all.
The cause of fibroids is unknown. However, it is known that a genetic predisposition exists, as fibroids are common in families. Hormones can stimulate the growth of fibroids, but they do not seem to cause them. Since the cause of fibroids is unknown, we do not know of a way to prevent them.
Fibroids tend to shrink after menopause but not go away completely. Women who have pelvic pain or bleeding from fibroids will often have relief of symptoms at menopause, even though the fibroid itself may still be present.
Image: © SolStock/Getty Images
About the Author
Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
