What Are Cervical Uterine Fibroids, Anyway?

Uterine fibroids are a common health issue for many women, but the term itself can sound pretty intimidating. When you add "cervical" to the mix, it might raise even more questions, but that doesn’t mean much more than the location of a fibroid. 

70% of women will develop uterine fibroids by the time they reach menopause. Yet, many are completely surprised to learn they have uterine fibroids, which, while benign (non-cancerous), can sometimes cause a range of bothersome symptoms. 

Let's break down what you need to know about this often-overlooked condition.

What are cervical uterine fibroids? 

So, there are no clinical differences between “cervical” or “uterine” fibroids, as they are diagnosed and treated the same, even if some fibroids are found in the cervix. Uterine fibroids are growths that can vary significantly in size, from as small as a pea to as large as a grapefruit, and a woman may have a single fibroid or several.

While all uterine fibroids are growths of the smooth muscle of the uterus and share the same makeup of muscle and fibrous tissue, their location can significantly impact symptoms and treatment options.

Signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids

Not all women with uterine fibroids will experience symptoms. For those who do, the effects can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding

• Pelvic pressure or pain

• Frequent urination

• Constipation

• Pain during intercourse

• Difficulty getting pregnant

What to expect during diagnosis

Uterine fibroids are often discovered during routine pelvic exams. If your healthcare provider suspects fibroids, they might recommend further tests like an ultrasound, MRI, or hysteroscopy. These tests help determine the size, location, and number of fibroids, which is crucial for developing a treatment plan.

Choosing the right treatment

The good news? There are several treatment options available for uterine fibroids. The best choice depends on factors like the size and location of the fibroids, your symptoms, and your future pregnancy plans.

For mild symptoms, your provider might suggest a "watch and wait" approach. This involves monitoring the fibroids over time to see if they grow or if symptoms worsen. Many fibroids shrink on their own after menopause.

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Uterine fibroids are super common — about 70–80% of women will have them by age 50! The wild part? Many don’t even know they have them. While some cause zero issues, others bring heavy periods, pain, or bloating. If something feels off, trust your gut!

Several medications can help manage the symptoms of uterine fibroids, especially heavy bleeding and pain. Your provider will work with you to find the best option for your situation. Some possibilities include:

Hormonal birth control

You may already be familiar with birth control pills, but they can also come in other forms, like patches, rings, or IUDs. They can help lighten your periods and reduce pain. While one of the most commonly used medications, hormonal birth control is not indicated for the condition — although there is some research that indicates its helpfulness in some cases. 

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists

These are oral medications that block the action of GnRH, which leads to a decrease in the production of estrogen. Treatment is often combined with a small dosage of hormone to mitigate side effects. 

Tranexamic acid

This is a medication that helps reduce heavy bleeding specifically. You'll likely take it only during your period.

What about surgery?

For more severe cases or larger fibroids, surgical options might be the best choice. It’s important to make this decision with your OBGYN and can be dependent on different factors: symptoms, medication management, specific location of fibroids, fertility issues, etc. 

Surgical options can include:

Myomectomy: Removal of the fibroids while leaving the uterus intact.

Hysterectomy: Removal of the entire uterus (only considered if other treatments haven't worked and you're not planning future pregnancies).

Uterine Artery Embolization: A procedure that cuts off blood supply to the fibroids.

Living with uterine fibroids

Dealing with uterine fibroids can be challenging, but many women lead full, active lives with proper management. Here are some tips:

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• Keep track of your symptoms and reach out to your OBGYN

• Discuss and maintain communication about treatment options with your healthcare provider 

• Consider joining a support group to connect with other women

• Reduce your stress, as it can sometimes exacerbate symptoms

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet

The emotional impact

It's important to acknowledge that dealing with uterine fibroids isn't just a physical challenge — it can take an emotional toll, too. Many women find themselves feeling anxious, worried about the future, or frustrated by the impact of fibroids on their lives.

Please know that these feelings are valid, and you're not alone. Talking to your healthcare provider about your emotional well-being is a sign of strength, not weakness. They can offer support and connect you with helpful resources in your area or online.

Empowering yourself with knowledge

Knowledge is power when it comes to your health. And understanding uterine fibroids is a crucial first step in taking control. Learning about this condition will empower you to have informed conversations with your healthcare provider and make the best choices for your care.

The Uterine Health Guide is a great place to start, providing comprehensive and easy-to-understand information about uterine fibroids of all types. Use it as a tool to prepare for your conversations and educate yourself so you can actively manage your health and well-being needs.

What’s next?

The key is to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized plan that addresses your specific situation. Be proactive: stay informed, listen to your body, and don't hesitate to seek support.

Uterine fibroids can be a super challenging health issue, but you're not alone. Millions of women have similar experiences, and thanks to ongoing advancements in medical understanding, technology, and treatment, more are finding relief and support.

Blair Sharp is a freelance writer who lives in Minnesota with her husband and son. Her words have been published in various publications, including Parents, SheKnows, The Bump, and Insider. You can find her watching reality TV and sharing too many reels with her friends when she's not writing. To connect with Blair, find her on LinkedIn and Instagram, or head to her website www.blairsharp.com.