The fibroids are commonly diagnosed before any symptoms have developed. A pelvic ultrasound is frequently used to confirm the presence of fibroids. An ultrasound can also determine the size, location and number of fibroids. Large fibroids typically cause pelvic pressure. This can include the feeling of the uterus falling out, urinary frequency and urgency due to pressure on the bladder, or constipation due to pressure on the intestines.
Fibroids can also cause irregular vaginal bleeding or heavy menstruation.
If a fibroid is deep in the uterus it can disrupt the blood flow to and functional integrity of the uterine lining. Deep fibroids are called submucosal if they lie directly under the uterine lining or intracavitary if they are on a stalk and located within the uterine cavity. Small fibroids that are not deep in the uterus and do not cause significant symptoms do not require treatment. Myomectomies can frequently be done through the laparoscope as an outpatient. Large fibroids usually require a larger incision with hospital admission for a few days.