Uterine fibroids can cause many symptoms that impact your quality of life. Your body’s blood supply nourishes these non-cancerous growths on the uterus. Fibroids can grow to over 10cm, comparable to the size of a mango.
Some women don’t realize they have fibroids; others suffer debilitating symptoms. But what do fibroids look like? The following pictures of fibroids will give you a visual image of what happens when you have been diagnosed with fibroids.
Uterine Fibroid Images
The uterus looks like a lightbulb with wings curling back into the uterus. This uterus diagram shows these wings are made up of the fallopian tubes and ovaries, with the uterus and cervix (leading into the vagina), on the top and bottom of this “lightbulb” of your body.
We’ve collected these uterine fibroids pictures and images to help you better understand what fibroids look like, how large they can get, and what symptoms you may experience.
Symptoms include:
- Heavy periods
- Frequent urination
- Periods lasting for 10 or more days
- Pain or cramps in the pelvic area
- Fatigue from anemia
- Pain in the back, legs, or pelvis
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you can contact USA Fibroid Centers for help. Our goal is to allow women the option of a minimally invasive treatment with Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE).
Images of Fibroids
Several fibroids can grow throughout the uterus, as shown in the pictures of fibroids.
- Intramural: These fibroids grow inside the walls of the uterine muscles.
- Subserosal: These grow outside of the uterus inside the abdominal cavity.
- Submucosal: This type grows in the uterus lining or the endometrium.
- Pedunculated: This fibroid attaches to the uterus wall by a stalk and can develop inside or outside the uterus.
A body containing fibroids can often look like a pregnant woman’s body, with a protruding belly that may not fit into your clothes. It can cause many insecurities about their bodies and how people act around them, as well. As you can see in the photo, it looks much smaller after treatment.
Uterine fibroids vary in size, but some can grow large enough to press against other organs, causing discomfort in the abdomen, back, and pelvic area. They start tiny, around the size of a pea, and can grow into the size of a lemon. Sometimes, they even reach the size of a watermelon.
Images of Fibroid Treatments
There are three primary types of treatment for uterine fibroids a doctor may recommend.
Myomectomy Photo
A doctor may recommend a myomectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the fibroids. While USA Fibroid Centers does not perform myomectomies, there are three types of myomectomy options you should know about:
- Abdominal: An incision is made in the lower abdomen and uterus about four inches long
- Laparoscopic: Four incisions are made in the lower abdomen, each about ½-inch
- Hysteroscopic: A thin scope is inserted into the vagina and cervix into the uterus
Hysterectomy Photo
A hysterectomy is a surgery that removes the uterus and, sometimes, the ovaries and cervix. It requires an extended hospital stay, results in infertility, and needs a longer recovery.
Various hysterectomy procedures exist. A partial hysterectomy removes the uterus, while a total hysterectomy removes the uterus and cervix. A radical hysterectomy removes the uterus, ovaries, and all female reproductive organs.
A stomach after a hysterectomy often has a scar running through it. Pictured below, the scar is vertical and looks to go down toward the groin.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization Photo
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive, short outpatient procedure for treating fibroids. A tiny catheter is inserted into the uterine artery feeding the fibroid to allow embolic agents to be injected. It then blocks blood flow, causing the fibroids to shrink and die. . One major advantage of UFE is that it is a non-surgical alternative to hysterectomy, preserving the uterus and allowing women to maintain their fertility. UFE also carries a lower risk of complications and has a shorter recovery time compared to surgery. Additionally, UFE is effective in treating multiple fibroids simultaneously, regardless of their size or location. It provides long-term symptom relief, reducing heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure. Compared to hormonal therapies, UFE does not have the same potential side effects, such as weight gain or mood changes. UFE is a safe and effective option for women seeking fibroid treatment with minimal invasiveness, faster recovery, and preservation of reproductive options. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment approach based on individual circumstances.
Request a Consultation With USA Fibroid Centers
If you’re concerned that you may have fibroids or want an option other than invasive surgery, contact USA Fibroid Centers to request a consultation or call us at 855-615-2555. We offer the option of either an in-person visit or telemedicine appointment for your convenience. No matter where we meet, we look forward to helping you regain control of your life.
