The exact causes for fibroid development are unclear. Women may have a genetic predisposition to fibroid development and then subsequently develop factors that allow fibroids to grow under the influence of a number of hormones. This would explain why certain ethnic groups or racial groups are more likely to develop fibroids and also why there tends to be genetic predisposition in some families.

Uterine fibroids are very common. From 20 - 40 percent of women age 35 and older have uterine fibroids of a significant size. African-American women are at a higher risk: as many as 50 percent have fibroids of a significant size. Fibroids range greatly in size from very tiny to the size of a grapefruit or larger. In some cases, they can cause the uterus to grow to the size of a five-month pregnancy or larger. There are three primary types of uterine fibroids-subserosal fibroids, intramural fibroids and submucosal fibroids (just under the inner lining of the uterus)

Most fibroids don't cause symptoms — only 10 percent to 20 percent of women who have fibroids ever require treatment. Depending on location, size and number of fibroids, a woman might experience the following:

Heavy, severe, prolonged menstrual periods and bleeding in between periods. In some women, bleeding may be so severe as to cause a significant decrease in blood counts (anemia). Some women have needed blood transfusions due to excessive bleeding.

• Heavy, severe, prolonged menstrual periods and bleeding in between periods. In some women, bleeding may be so severe as to cause a significant decrease in blood counts (anemia). Some women have needed blood transfusions due to excessive bleeding
• Pelvic pain
• Pelvic pressure or heaviness caused by the bulk or weight of the fibroids pressing on nearby structures
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Bladder pressure leading to a constant urge to urinate
• Pressure on the bowel, leading to constipation and bloating
• Abnormally enlarged or protruding abdomen
  

Typically, fibroids are first diagnosed during a gynecologic internal examination. Your doctor will conduct a pelvic exam to feel if your uterus is enlarged. The presence of fibroids is most often confirmed by an abdominal ultrasound. Fibroids also can be confirmed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

What is an Interventional Radiologist?

This procedure is performed by interventional radiologists — doctors who are specially trained in minimally-invasive, targeted treatments performed using guided imaging. They use their expertise with x-rays, ultrasound, MRI and other diagnostic imaging equipment to guide tiny instruments, called catheters, through blood vessels to treat diseases without surgery. Procedures performed by interventional radiologists (IRs) are generally less costly and less traumatic to the patient, involving smaller incisions, less pain, and shorter hospital stays. Interventional radiologists are board certified radiologists that are fellowship trained in non-surgical interventions using image guidance. Their specialized training is certified by the American Board of Medical Specialities.