Uterine Fibroids Myths Dispelled
What’s the Story with Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are common benign tumors that can cause pain, heavy bleeding during menstruation, and infertility. There are many causes of uterine fibroids, including genetics and reproductive history. Here are some common myths and truths about this condition.
Uterine Fibroids Myths Dispelled
- Myth: You will know if you have uterine fibroids.
- Truth: Fibroids are a common benign tumor that can develop in women with or without symptoms.
- Myth: Women who have had multiple pregnancies are at an increased risk of developing fibroids.
- Truth: There is no evidence to support this suggestion, and it has been disproven by the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
- Myth: Uterine fibroids typically cause infertility.
- Truth: There is no evidence to support this suggestion, and it has been disproven by the ACOG. Severe cases may cause infertility.
- Myth: All uterine fibroids are malignant (cancerous).
- Truth: Fibroids are benign meaning they are not cancerous and do not turn into cancer. There is a malignant cancer of the uterus called leiomyosarcoma which is very rare.
- Myth: Fibroids are a symptom of menopause.
- Truth: It’s completely normal for women to have fibroids at any age. They are most symptomatic during child bearing years. .
- Myth: You should avoid sexual activity if you have uterine fibroids.
- Truth: There is no evidence that avoiding sexual activity will prevent the occurrence of uterine fibroids. In fact, there are many studies that show having a healthy sex life can reduce the risk of developing uterine fibroids by as much as 50 percent.
Check out our latest uterine fibroid video to learn more about how our doctors can help.
