Are They Dangerous?

While fibroids are tumors, they are almost always benign, with only about one in 1,000 being diagnosed as a cancerous fibroid, called a leiomyosarcoma. These tumors are different than the benign fibroids discussed in this article, and doctors tend to agree that they aren’t caused by existing fibroids.

Fibroids can cause complications when a woman with fibroids becomes pregnant. In most cases, women are able to carry a pregnancy to term and have a normal delivery even with these tumors. However, some women who have fibroids may need to have a Cesarean section (C-section). In fact, they are six times more likely to need one than a woman who doesn’t have fibroids.

They may also face other problems with labor, such as breech birth, where a fetus isn’t properly positioned for a vaginal delivery, or a failure of labor to progress. Both instances will lead to the necessity of a C-section. Women with fibroids are also at a higher risk for a condition called a placental abruption, where the placenta breaks away from the uterine wall prior to labor. This can deprive the fetus of oxygen, and they are at a higher risk of preterm delivery.

How Are They Treated?

Even if they aren’t dangerous, living with fibroids can be painful and inconvenient, especially when they come with heavy menstrual periods or abnormally strong cramps. These uncomfortable symptoms can interfere with your day-to-day activities. How doctors treat fibroids depends largely on the severity of symptoms, the size and location of the tumors, the patient’s age and desire to become pregnant in the future. Among the options to discuss with your doctor:

●      OTC Medications: Most doctors will advise women with fibroids to take over the counter (OTC) painkillers, like ibuprofen, to manage the pain that comes from heavy cramps. You may also be advised to take an iron supplement if you have heavy periods with your fibroids. This is to help prevent anemia.