Gynecology
Uterine fibroids and heavy periods
Fibroids are common and usually benign. Treatment depends on your symptoms and your plans for pregnancy.
What are fibroids?
Fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterine muscle. Many cause no symptoms. Others cause heavy or long periods, pelvic pressure, frequent urination, or problems with fertility.
Diagnosis
Fibroids are usually found during an exam and confirmed with in-office ultrasound.
Treatment options
- Watchful waiting if symptoms are mild
- Medications to reduce bleeding, including hormonal and non-hormonal options
- Hormonal IUD to lighten heavy periods
- Hysteroscopic myomectomy for fibroids inside the uterine cavity
- Myomectomy to remove fibroids while keeping the uterus
- Hysterectomy when you have completed childbearing and other treatments are not right for you
- Uterine artery embolization, by referral to an interventional radiologist
Heavy bleeding can lead to anemia. We may check your blood count and treat iron deficiency.
Medically reviewed by Rahil Malik, MD, FACOG, board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist. Last reviewed: September 2026. This page is general information and does not replace a visit with your doctor.