What Are Uterine Fibroids? Understanding the Basics.

If you’ve ever heard someone mention fibroids and thought, “Wait, what exactly are those?”—you’re not alone. Fibroids are one of the most common gynecologic conditions out there, especially among women of color, yet they remain something we don’t talk about nearly enough.

So let’s break it down, Dr. Rae style.

What Are Fibroids?

Fibroids—also called leiomyomas or myomas—are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus. Think of them as lumps or tumors made of smooth muscle and connective tissue, growing where they don’t belong. They can range in size from so tiny they’re practically invisible to as large as a grapefruit (yes, really).

Where Do They Grow?

Fibroids can form in different parts of the uterus:

         •        Intramural fibroids: the most common, growing inside the muscle wall of the uterus.

         •        Submucosal fibroids: growing into the uterine cavity, sometimes causing heavy bleeding.

         •        Subserosal fibroids: growing outward, pressing on surrounding organs like the bladder.

Each location comes with its own set of potential symptoms—or sometimes, no symptoms at all.

Who Gets Fibroids?

Here’s the kicker: fibroids are extremely common. By age 50, up to 70–80% of women will have them. But not everyone will experience problems from them.

Some risk factors include:

         •        Race: Black women are 2–3 times more likely to develop fibroids and often at a younger age.

         •        Age: Most common in the 30s and 40s, though they can appear earlier.

         •        Family history: If your mother, sister, or aunt had fibroids, your chances increase.

         •        Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone seem to play a role in fibroid growth.

Why Should You Care?

Because even though fibroids are not cancer, they can cause life-altering symptoms for many women—things like heavy bleeding, pain, bloating, and even fertility issues. But here’s the empowering part: understanding fibroids is the first step toward reclaiming your health.

In the coming blogs, we’ll dig deeper into symptoms, treatment options, and lifestyle strategies to take back control.

Takeaway: Fibroids are common, they’re not your fault, and you don’t have to suffer in silence.

TRUSTED RESOURCES ABOUT FIBROIDS:

1. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services – Office on Women’s Health

Website: womenshealth.gov/fibroids

Why it's reliable: Government-backed, evidence-based, and reviewed by medical experts. Offers clear explanations, symptoms, treatments, and FAQs.

2. Mayo Clinic

Website: mayoclinic.org

Why it's reliable: Trusted medical institution. Offers in-depth, medically reviewed information on fibroids including causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.

3. The Fibroid Foundation

Website: fibroidfoundation.org Instagram: @fibroidfoundation

Why it's reliable: Patient-centered nonprofit with expert advisors. Shares both scientific info and patient experiences. Active advocacy organization.

4. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

Website: acog.org

Why it's reliable: Professional organization for OB-GYNs. Provides clinical guidance and educational material reviewed by physicians.

5. Black Women's Health Imperative (BWHI)

Website: bwhi.org Instagram: @blkwomenshealth

Why it's reliable: Focuses on the health of Black women, who are disproportionately affected by fibroids. Offers culturally relevant, fact-based content and advocacy.

DISCLAIMER:

The medical information provided on this website is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing on this site should be construed as individualized medical consultation or a replacement for the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of your physician or other licensed healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance on any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk. The site owner assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content, or for any outcomes resulting from the use of this information.