When diagnosed with uterine fibroids, many women ask: Will fibroid tumors go away on their own, or do they require treatment? The answer depends on several factors, including the size, location, and symptoms caused by the fibroids. Fortunately, today’s fibroid treatments offer a range of options—from monitoring to advanced, minimally invasive procedures—that can help manage or eliminate these growths based on your unique needs.
While fibroids are benign (noncancerous) tumors, they can still lead to discomfort, reproductive complications, and lifestyle disruption. Understanding your treatment options—whether it’s watchful waiting, medication, or procedures like Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)—can help you make the best decision for your health.
In this guide, we’ll explore when fibroids might shrink naturally, how fibroids are removed, and address secondary concerns like can fibroids be cancerous or can fibroids rupture.
Table of Contents
- What Are Uterine Fibroids?
- Will Fibroid Tumors Go Away on Their Own?
- When Is Treatment Necessary?
- How Fibroids Are Removed
- Are Fibroids Ever Dangerous?
- Final Thoughts
1. What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids, or leiomyomas, are growths that form in or on the uterus. They’re incredibly common—up to 70% of women will develop them by age 50—but not all will experience symptoms. These growths can be as small as a pea or as large as a grapefruit and may cause heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, frequent urination, or infertility, depending on their size and location.
2. Will Fibroid Tumors Go Away on Their Own?
In some cases, yes—fibroids can shrink naturally. This is most common during menopause, when estrogen levels drop. Without the hormone stimulation, fibroids may reduce in size or disappear completely.
However, for women in their reproductive years, fibroids rarely go away on their own and may continue to grow. While small, asymptomatic fibroids can sometimes be monitored without treatment, others may require intervention to avoid complications or discomfort.
3. When Is Treatment Necessary?
You may not need immediate treatment for fibroids if:
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They are small
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You have no symptoms
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You’re nearing menopause
But treatment becomes necessary if you experience:
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Heavy or prolonged periods
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Severe pelvic pain or pressure
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Frequent urination or constipation
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Difficulty getting or staying pregnant
Monitoring alone isn’t ideal if fibroids are causing chronic symptoms or impacting your quality of life. A fibroid specialist can help determine the right approach based on your personal health goals.
4. How Fibroids Are Removed
If fibroids require intervention, you have several treatment options, ranging from conservative to surgical:
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
A non-surgical procedure that blocks blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink. UFE is ideal for women seeking relief without hysterectomy and often involves shorter recovery time.
Myomectomy
Surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus. Best for women who wish to maintain fertility, though fibroids may recur over time.
Hysterectomy
Complete removal of the uterus. It’s a permanent solution for fibroids but eliminates the ability to become pregnant.
Hormonal Therapy
Temporary relief using medications to shrink fibroids. Often used to manage symptoms before surgery or menopause.
5. Are Fibroids Ever Dangerous?
Fibroids are usually benign, but it’s natural to wonder: Can fibroids be cancerous? The answer is very rarely. Fewer than 1 in 1,000 fibroids are cancerous, a condition called leiomyosarcoma. This type of cancer does not develop from a benign fibroid but appears as a separate tumor.
Another concern is: Can fibroids rupture? While uncommon, fibroid rupture can happen—especially if a fibroid grows too quickly or undergoes degeneration. Symptoms may include sharp pelvic pain and internal bleeding, requiring immediate medical attention.
Being informed about these possibilities can help you monitor symptoms and seek prompt care when needed.
6. Final Thoughts
Fibroids don’t always need to be removed, but when they interfere with your health or quality of life, treatment is often the best course of action. From watchful waiting to advanced procedures like Uterine Fibroid Embolization, there are effective solutions available.
At Fibroid Care, we specialize in non-surgical, minimally invasive fibroid treatment that allows women to return to their lives with minimal disruption. If you’re wondering whether your fibroids will go away—or what treatment path is right for you—our team is here to help guide you through every step.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for personal guidance regarding your condition.