Fibroids are benign (noncancerous) growths in the wall of the
uterus. The uterus is the organ where a fetus grows during
pregnancy. Fibroids are common. They may be very small or they
could grow to eight or more inches in diameter. Most fibroids
remain inside the uterus. In rare cases, they may stick out and
affect nearby organs. It is common for there to be more than one
fibroid. Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. The cause of
fibroids is unknown. Fibroid growth is stimulated by female
reproductive hormones. As a result: - Fibroids grow larger
during pregnancy then shrink after childbirth. - Fibroids become
less of a problem after menopause. However, symptoms may return
with hormone replacement therapy (HRT) Genetics may make some
women more prone to fibroids. Substances that control blood
vessel growth may also affect fibroid growth. Last
reviewedSeptember 2012by Andrea Chisholm Please be aware that
this information is provided to supplement the care provided by
your physician. It is neither intended n