Fibroids are the most frequently seen tumors of the female reproductive system. Also known as uterine myomas, leiomyomas, or fibromas, they are firm, compact tumors that are made of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue that develop in the uterus. In more than 99% of cases they are benign (non-cancerous). They may range in size from the size of a pea to the size of a softball or small grapefruit. Some women never have symptoms, the most common of which are: heavy or prolonged menstrual periods; abnormal bleeding between menstrual periods; pelvic pain; frequent urination; low back pain; pain during intercourse; a firm mass, often located near the middle of the pelvis, which can be felt by a physician.

	Adenomyosis The Condition "...For one, many patients are asymptomatic, but even when women have symptoms, it is either mistaken for another common condition, such as uterine fibroids, or overshadowed by an associated condition, such as endometriosis..." Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding Related Topic "...The following conditions should be ruled out in order to diagnose DUB: endometrial polyps, uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometrial or cervical cancer, pelvic infection including endometritis (infection of the lining of the uterus), endometriosis, polycystic ovarian disease, ovarian cyst..." Fibroids The Condition "Uterine fibroids or leiomyomata are areas of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue that develop in or on the uterine wall..." Our Question about ease of urination "Difficulty urinating is a symptom of uterine fibroids..." Relationship to Progesterone Low or Estrogen Dominance "Estrogen levels have persistently been shown to be elevated in patients with uterine fibroids..." Recommendation Vitex / Chasteberry "Vitex is used as a way to prevent repeat uterine fibroids..." Recommendation Estrogen-balancing Medications "Uterine fibroids are often associated with elevated levels of estrogens..." Metrorrhagia The Condition "...imbalance (hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism); pregnancy disorder; cervical lesions; medications (birth control pills, corticosteroids, hypothalamic depressants, anticholinergics, anticoagulants); uterine fibroids; functional ovarian cysts; polyps; carcinoma of the vagina, cervix, endometium or ovary; renal or liver disease; coagulation disorders; anabolic steroid use; IUDs or other trauma..." Vitex / Chasteberry As A Treatment "...Chaste berries are most often used in PMS, hypermenorrhea, unusual menstrual cycling, uterine fibroids and poor lactation..."

Last updated: Aug 15, 2009