A mass of extra tissue forms, and this mass is called a growth or tumor. Tumors can be benign or malignant. Benign tumors are not cancer. They can usually be removed and, in most cases, they do not come back. Cells from benign tumors do not spread to other parts of the body.
Fibroids are common benign tumors of the uterine muscle.
These tumors do not develop into cancer. Fibroids are found mainly in women in their forties. In most cases, fibroids cause no symptoms and require no treatment, although a doctor should check them. Depending on the size and location of the tumors, however, symptoms such as irregular bleeding, vaginal discharge, and frequent urination may occur. When fibroids cause heavy bleeding or press against nearby organs and cause pain, surgery or other treatment may be recommended.