A pedunculated uterine fibroid is a non-cancerous uterine growth that develops on a stalk-like structure rather than forming as a round mass. If you’ve been diagnosed with a pedunculated fibroid, a fibroid specialist can help further explain how its size and location affect your symptoms and discuss non-surgical treatment options for relief.
What is a Pedunculated Fibroid?
A pedunculated fibroid is a non-cancerous growth that is stalk-like in shape and attaches to the wall of the uterus. These fibroid types are usually located inside or outside the uterus and are named because of their growth shape.
Symptoms
The symptoms of pedunculated fibroids depend on their location. Some women don’t experience any pedunculated fibroid symptoms, while others experience milder symptoms such as longer periods or abdominal pain. In some cases, a pedunculated fibroid can rotate on its stalk, a condition known as torsion. Torsion can restrict blood flow to the fibroid, causing a sudden, sharp pain.
Are Pedunculated Fibroids Dangerous?
Pedunculated fibroids aren’t any more dangerous than other types of fibroids, but they can still cause significant discomfort and disruption to daily life. Their unique risk is torsion, which can cut off the blood supply and cause sudden, severe pain.
You should seek urgent medical evaluation if you experience:
- Sudden and intense pelvic or abdominal pain
- Fever
- Faintness or dizziness
- Heavy or uncontrolled bleeding
While not typically life-threatening, pedunculated fibroids can affect fertility, pregnancy, and overall well-being if left untreated.
Types of Pedunculated Fibroids
There are two types of pedunculated fibroids: submucosal pedunculated fibroids and subserosal pedunculated fibroids. The main differences between submucosal and subserosal pedunculated fibroids are their locations and the symptoms they can cause.
Pedunculated Subserosal Fibroid
A pedunculated subserosal fibroid grows outward from the uterus, extending into the pelvic or abdominal cavity. As a result, a subserosal pedunculated fibroid is more likely to cause pressure-related symptoms than bleeding.
| Pedunculated Subserosal Fibroid Quick Guide | |
| Location | Outside the uterus (pelvic or abdominal cavities) |
| Common Symptoms |
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Pedunculated Submucosal Fibroid
A pedunculated submucosal fibroid grows into or within the uterine cavity. This type of fibroid is more likely to affect the uterine lining and is often associated with bleeding-related symptoms.
| Pedunculated Submucosal Fibroid Quick Guide | |
| Location | Inside the uterus |
| Common Symptoms |
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If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are related to fibroids, a symptom check can help guide next steps.
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What Causes Pedunculated Fibroids?
As with other fibroids, the exact cause of pedunculated fibroids is not fully known. Some factors potentially linked to the development of fibroids include:
- Hormones: Specifically, estrogen and progesterone appear to affect fibroid growth.
- Genetics: Fibroids often have distinct genetic profiles compared with normal uterine muscle cells.
- Extracellular matrix (ECM): ECM binds cells to one another, creating the dense tissue that forms fibroids.
- Other growth factors: Substances such as insulin-like growth factors can also promote fibroid growth.
Regardless of the cause, pedunculated fibroids are treatable, and multiple options are available based on your symptoms and goals. If you’re not sure what treatment is right for you, our specialists are here to help you discuss your needs and find a solution.
Pedunculated Fibroids and Pregnancy
The relationship between a pedunculated fibroid and its impact on pregnancy varies from person to person. The most important factors affecting the relationship between a pedunculated fibroid and pregnancy are fibroid size, location, and whether symptoms are present.
Possible concerns during pregnancy can include:
- Pelvic pressure
- Pain (including torsion episodes)
- Space limitations (depending on the fibroid’s location)
Many women with fibroids conceive naturally and avoid complications during pregnancy. However, fibroids that distort the uterine cavity or interfere with the fallopian tubes can make conception more difficult. For women who know they have fibroids, it is a good idea to schedule an evaluation before or during early pregnancy.
How Are Pedunculated Fibroids Diagnosed?
Diagnosing a pedunculated fibroid usually involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging. Pelvic exams can help detect fibroids, but imaging, such as ultrasounds or MRIs, is essential to confirm their type, size, number, and stalk location. Accurate imaging enables doctors to distinguish pedunculated fibroids from other uterine abnormalities with similar symptoms, allowing them to pursue appropriate treatment.
Pedunculated Fibroid Removal and Treatment Options
A pedunculated fibroid can be treated like any other fibroid, although treatment depends on factors like fibroid location and your overall health.
A popular option for fibroid removal is a non-surgical treatment called uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). UFE is a minimally invasive fibroid treatment in which an interventional radiologist inserts a tiny catheter and injects embolic material into the artery supplying the fibroid. This procedure blocks the fibroid’s blood supply, causing it to shrink and die.
Surgical removal options include myomectomy and hysterectomy. While a myomectomy preserves the uterus, the procedure is limited by the number and location of fibroids that can be safely removed. Additionally, because the underlying uterine tissue remains, there is a lifelong possibility of fibroid recurrence. A more permanent solution is a hysterectomy, which is the removal of the uterus. After removing the uterus, though, there is no possibility of becoming pregnant.
Consulting a fibroid specialist can help you decide which treatment is best for you, based on the symptoms you’re experiencing and your fertility goals.
Get Expert Care for Pedunculated Fibroids
If you have been diagnosed with a pedunculated fibroid, expert care from the fibroid specialists at USA Fibroid Centers can make a meaningful difference. Our specialists can confirm your diagnosis and explain all available options so you can make the best choice for you.
USA Fibroid Centers also makes it easy and convenient to schedule an appointment from one of our nationwide locations. Schedule a consultation online or call (855) 615-2555 to find relief from pedunculated fibroid symptoms today.
FAQs About Pedunculated Fibroids
What does a pedunculated fibroid feel like?
A pedunculated fibroid can cause dull, aching pelvic pain, menstrual cramps, or a heavy sensation, depending on its size and position. The stalk-like shape of these fibroids can also twist, leading to sharp, stabbing pain.
Do pedunculated fibroids need to be removed?
Any type of fibroid, including pedunculated fibroids, should be treated if they are causing symptoms that interfere with your life. Non-surgical options like uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) can help treat pedunculated fibroid symptoms without the hassle of surgical removal.
Can I get pregnant with pedunculated fibroids?
Many women with pedunculated fibroids successfully conceive and have healthy pregnancies. However, if a pedunculated uterine fibroid distorts the uterine cavity or blocks the fallopian tubes, there are increased risks of conception and pregnancy complications. Consult with a specialist for any questions you may have about the impact of fibroids on fertility.