Other names for these tumours include fibromyomas , fibromas , myofibromas , and myomas . The average affected uterus has 6-7 fibroids. Leiomyomas are usually detected in women in their 30's and 40's and will shrink after menopause in the absence of post-menopausal oestrogen replacement therapy. They are 2-5 times more prevalent in black women than white women. Normal menstrual periods typically last 4-5 days, whereas women with fibroids often have periods lasting longer than 7 days.
Pelvic pressure results from an increase in size of the uterus or from a particular fibroid.
Most women with leiomyomas have an enlarged uterus. It is not unusual for a uterus with leiomyomas to reach the size of a 4-5 month pregnancy. Pressure on these structures can result in difficulty with bowel movements and constipation or urinary frequency and incontinence. Leiomyomas are also associated with a range of reproductive dysfunction including recurrent miscarriage , infertility , premature labour , foetal malpresentations, and complications of labour . The diagnosis of leiomyomas is usually easily determined by a bimanual pelvic examination .