If tumors are inside the uterus, a hysterectomy may be necessary, but most tumors can be removed with a relatively new type of surgery called myomectomy. This surgery is a good alternative for women of childbearing age because it leaves the uterus intact. Unfortunately, the fibroids may return up to thirty percent of the time. Estrogen stimulates the growth of fibroid tumors so they often get bigger with pregnancy. This can cause complications and miscarriage, although many women with fibroids have a normal pregnancy and delivery.
Fibroids can also block the fallopian tubes leading to infertility.
The tumors usually shrink after menopause. The cause of fibroids isn't known but there are risk factors. African-American women are more likely to get the tumors although researchers don't know why. Copyright 2001 Belo Interactive Inc., All Rights Reserved.