Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in the muscular wall of the uterus.
They often do not cause symptoms. However, the size and location of some tumors can lead to problems, including pain and heavy bleeding for some women. Other symptoms may include pelvic pressure, back or leg pain, pain during sexual intercourse, constant urge to urinate, constipation or bloating. In the past, uterine fibroids were removed by excising the uterus with a hysterectomy, or by a myomectomy, a procedure that removes the fibroids, leaving the uterus intact. Both are invasive procedures that require a hospital stay and a recovery process of about two weeks.