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. Most important, benign tumors are rarely a threat to life.
Fibroids are common benign tumors of the uterine muscle.
These tumors rarely develop into cancer. In most cases, fibroids cause no symptoms and require no treatment, although they should be checked by a doctor. Depending on the size and location of the tumors, however, symptoms sometimes occur. These symptoms may include irregular bleeding, vaginal discharge, and frequent urination. When fibroids cause heavy bleeding or press against nearby organs and cause pain, surgery or other treatment may be recommended.