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How Common Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus. They are the most common type of solid tumor that can grow in the pelvis. Fibroids affect 20 to 50 out of 100 reproductive-aged women.1

Most women with fibroids do not have symptoms. For those who do, symptoms can range from mild to severe. Symptoms depend on how large a fibroid is, where it is, and whether it is bleeding or pressing on an internal organ.

Uterine fibroids are more common:

  • Among black women than white women.
  • As women age, especially from their 30s and 40s until menopause, usually at about age 50.

Citations

  1. Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, Society of Reproductive Surgeons (2008). Myomas and reproductive function. Fertility and Sterility, 90(3): S125–S130.
By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Divya Gupta, MD
Last Revised June 23, 2011

Last Revised: June 23, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine & Divya Gupta, MD

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