Fibroids, pronounced /ˈfaɪbrɔɪdz/, are noncancerous tumors that grow in the uterus. The spelling of this word comes from the fact that it is derived from the Latin word "fibra," meaning fiber, and the Greek word "oid," meaning resembling. Therefore, the "fibr" in the beginning of the word is pronounced with a long "i" sound and the "oid" at the end is pronounced with a short "o" sound. People with fibroids may experience heavy periods, pelvic pain, and other symptoms, and treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition.
Fibroids, also known as uterine fibroids or leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in the muscular wall of the uterus. They are one of the most common reproductive health issues experienced by women. Fibroids are typically composed of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue.
These growths can vary in size, shape, and number. While some women may have a single fibroid, others may develop multiple fibroids. Fibroids may range in size from small, pea-sized nodules to large, bulky masses that can distort the shape and size of the uterus. Their growth pattern can also differ, with some fibroids growing slowly over time, while others may grow rapidly.
The exact cause of fibroids is not fully understood, but hormonal factors, particularly estrogen and progesterone, are believed to play a role in their development and growth. They are most commonly found in women of reproductive age, typically between the ages of 30 and 50. Factors such as family history, obesity, and race (African-American women are more likely to develop fibroids) may also contribute to their occurrence.
While fibroids are generally benign, they can cause a range of symptoms including heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, constipation, and fertility problems. Treatment options for fibroids depend on the severity of symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, and the patient's desire for future fertility. Treatment may include medication to alleviate symptoms or surgical procedures such as myomectomy (removal of fibroids) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus).
The word "fibroids" is derived from the Latin term "fibra", meaning "fiber", combined with the Greek suffix "-oid", which means "resembling" or "like". So, "fibroids" loosely translates to "resembling fibers". This term is used to describe non-cancerous tumors that develop within the muscle tissue of the uterus, which have a fibrous and dense texture.