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Types of Uterine Fibroids

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What are the different types of uterine fibroids?

If you have been diagnosed with uterine fibroids, it’s crucial to understand that there are four distinct types. These fibroids are typically categorized by their location in the uterus and can vary in size, shape, and number. This classification is important because it affects both the symptoms you may experience and the treatment options available.

The type of fibroids you have is determined by their specific location in or around the uterine wall. During a routine pelvic exam, your OBGYN can evaluate the uterus for any abnormalities. An enlarged or irregularly shaped uterus may indicate the presence of fibroids. To identify the exact type and location, your physician may order further imaging tests such as ultrasounds or MRIs.

At our fibroid clinic, specialists use advanced diagnostic methods to classify and treat all types of fibroids. We offer Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure designed to shrink and reduce fibroids without surgery. UFE can significantly reduce fibroid symptoms and help patients return to their regular activities with improved quality of life.

Types Of Fibroids

Intramural Fibroids

Intramural fibroids develop within the uterine muscle walls and are the most frequently encountered type of fibroid. Because of their position deep in the uterine wall, they can expand over time and cause the womb to stretch and enlarge. Typical symptoms are prolonged heavy periods lasting over 10 days, irregular bleeding between cycles, pressure in the pelvic region, and persistent discomfort in the lower back or abdomen.

Intramural Fibroids

Subserosal Fibroids

Subserosal fibroids develop on the outer surface of the uterus, protruding into the pelvic or abdominal area where they can grow large. They may be connected to the uterus directly or by a slender stem known as a peduncle, which allows mobility. Women with subserosal fibroids frequently face complications with nearby organs such as the bladder, rectum, or intestines, leading to symptoms like urinary frequency, constipation, or abdominal bloating.

Subserosal Fibroids

Submucosal Fibroids

Submucosal fibroids extend into the uterus’s inner lining, called the endometrium. They may appear alone or in clusters and often cause heavy bleeding, anemia, dizziness, and fainting. Other symptoms can include bleeding between periods, frequent or large clots, and pelvic or back pain. If these fibroids protrude significantly into the uterine cavity, they may be removed vaginally with a hysteroscope by your OBGYN.

Submucosal Fibroids

Pedunculated Fibroids

Pedunculated fibroids are a type of subserosal or submucosal fibroid that develop on a stalk, or peduncle, extending outside the uterine walls. These fibroids can lead to sharp, stabbing pains if they rotate on their stalk, disrupting their blood supply. Treatment options may involve using a camera from outside the body (laparoscopy) or from within the uterus (hysteroscopy), depending on their location.

Pedunculated Fibroids

Do You Experience Symptoms of Fibroids?

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How Are Uterine Fibroids Managed?

If fibroids are not addressed, they can significantly affect your quality of life, causing issues like heavy menstrual bleeding and pain. Your gynecologist might suggest lifestyle adjustments, medications, or hormone therapies to alleviate symptoms and reduce fibroid size. However, if your symptoms worsen, a procedure might be necessary. Our physician specializes in Uterine Fibroid Embolization, a less invasive option compared to hysterectomy, and can treat all types of uterine fibroids. The appropriate treatment for your fibroids will depend on the following factors:

  • Earlier methods for treating uterine fibroids
  • Quantity and dimensions of fibroids
  • Goals concerning fertility
  • Severity of fibroid symptoms
  • The kind of fibroids you have
  • Age
  • Other existing health issues

How are uterine fibroids detected?

Your OBGYN can often diagnose various types of uterine fibroids during a routine pelvic exam. You might also suspect you have fibroids if you’re experiencing certain symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, or pressure in the lower abdomen. While not all fibroids produce symptoms, some can lead to pain, discomfort, or other complications—particularly if they grow large or are located near vital organs. Some fibroids may go unnoticed for years until they are found incidentally during imaging for another issue.

To accurately assess the presence, size, number, and location of fibroids—as well as their potential impact on nearby structures—the fibroid clinic’s doctors may utilize several advanced imaging tests. These tests help create a detailed visual map of the uterus, allowing physicians to tailor the most appropriate treatment plan.

In some cases, a combination of imaging methods may be used to confirm the diagnosis and eliminate other possible causes of your symptoms. Timely detection plays a crucial role in reducing discomfort and choosing the most effective course of care.

  • MRI with contrast
  • Ultrasound
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