Some women develop a single fibroid, while others develop numerous fibroids. Since the cause is not known, it's unclear what factors put women at greater risk for developing fibroids. What is known is that most fibroids develop during a woman's reproductive years. They rarely occur before a girl begins menstruation and tend to stabilize or shrink in women past menopause. African American women are two to three times more likely to be diagnosed with fibroids.
Most fibroids cause no symptoms.
In the past, hysterectomies were commonly performed in women whose fibroids caused problems. Many physicians now advocate observation rather than treatment. If symptoms worsen or a woman plans to become pregnant, treatment with medications or surgery may be necessary. Fortunately, even if fibroids cause fertility problems, removing them generally restores fertility. You experience more menstrual pain or discomfort than normal.