Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that often appear during a woman’s child-bearing years and are also called leiomyomas or myoma. Most uterine fibroids do not cause any noticeable symptoms, but in some cases, they may cause pelvic pain or heavy menstruation. If fibroids are pressing on the spinal nerve, they may also cause pain or backaches.

Uterine fibroids usually shrink or disappear during menopause. When symptoms are severe, surgery may be required. Laparoscopy and other minimally invasive surgery options are often available, but for very large fibroids, a hysterectomy may be necessary.