Do You Know the Signs and Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous uterine tumors that affect millions of women, causing life-altering symptoms. Learn more about uterine fibroid signs and diagnosis.

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Updated May 06, 2025

By Melissa Yurkanin, DO, Obstetrician and Gynecologist, Virtua OB/GYN

Uterine fibroids affect millions of women. While most are benign, meaning they’re not cancerous, they cause heavy bleeding, pelvic pain and pressure, and bloating that can make you feel like you’re five months pregnant. Some women must adjust their work, wardrobe, activities, and life around the pain and bleeding.

If you’re reading this and thinking—that sounds like me—read on to learn more about signs of uterine fibroids and how to know if you have them.

What are uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous uterine tumors that can grow within the uterine walls, outside the uterus, or into the uterine cavity. Multiple fibroids can occur at once, growing slowly, quickly, or even shrinking.

Although fibroids can occur in women of any age, they usually develop around childbearing age and are more common among African-American women. While you’re more likely to develop fibroids if someone in your family has them, they’re not a genetic condition.

What are the signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids?

You can have fibroids and not know it or feel any symptoms. However, some women experience severe symptoms, including:

Heavy menstrual bleeding
Prolonged menstrual periods
Pelvic pressure or pain
Pain during sex
Frequent urination
Constipation or difficulty urinating
Back or leg pain

In some cases, fibroids can lead to complications like anemia from heavy bleeding or difficulty conceiving. Call your OB/GYN for an evaluation if you have any of these symptoms.

During a routine pelvic exam, your OB/GYN provider can often feel uterine fibroids or abnormalities in the shape of your uterus. Your provider may order an ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis and determine the size and location of the fibroids.

If you’re diagnosed with uterine fibroids, there’s a range of treatment options depending on your age, symptoms, and fertility goals. Our OB/GYNs work closely with you to help pinpoint the best treatment option.