The Four Types of Fibroids

Fibroids are diagnosed by type, based on their position within the uterine wall, and are typically divided into four categories. These categories are:

• Subserosal fibroids
• Submucous fibroids
• Intramural fibroids
• Pedunculated fibroids

Though these names may be somewhat challenging to pronounce, they are fortunately fairly easy to explain.

Let’s start with Subserosal Fibroids.

• Subserosal Fibroids are located near the outer layer of the uterus, known as the serosa. This particular type of fibroid grows toward the outside of the uterus. When they are small, they are unlikely to cause symptoms, and usually do not require treatment. However, they should be monitored in case they become larger and therefore symptomatic.

The next fibroid type is Submucosal Fibroids.

• Submucosal Fibroids are also located near the outer layer of the uterus, however, they grow toward the internal layer of the uterus, called the mucosa, causing them to protrude into the uterine cavity. These fibroids tend to be symptomatic even at smaller sizes, and can even impact fertility. However, when caught early, these fibroids can be removed, thus preventing fibroid-related issues regarding pregnancy.

Another fibroid type is Intramural Fibroids.

• Intramural FIbroids are located primarily within the width of the uterus. Because they grow toward the outside of the uterus, these fibroids usually cause symptoms similar to that of subserosal fibroids. And, just like with submucosal fibroids, if they are too large, they can also cause fertility issues and pregnancy complications.

The last type of fibroids is Pedunculated Fibroids.

• Pedunculated Fibroids are a variation of the aforementioned fibroid types. They grow on a stalk on the outside or inside of the uterus. When small and subserosal ( growing on the outside of the uterine walls ), these fibroids are often asymptomatic. However, pedunculated submucosal fibroids, which grow inside the uterus, can cause various significant symptoms.

The classification of fibroids is somewhat limited, in that most fibroids are big enough or numerable enough to fall into several categories. However, identifying the type of fibroids can help in the diagnosis and treatment of them. If these fibroids are significant, like in the case of a large intramural fibroid with a significant part of it being submucosal, sometimes the solution is a hysterectomy. For women of childbearing age that want to conceive, an option for them is a myomectomy. This surgical operation can remove fibroids while preserving the uterus.

One of the best options out there for fibroid removal is Uterine Fibroid Embolization. Unlike the other treatment options available, UFE targets all of the fibroids in the uterus, making it effective for women with multiple fibroids, regardless of the fibroid’s size.

The bottom line is if you are experiencing symptoms that could be related to having uterine fibroids, help is available.

The first step is to make an appointment with your doctor. Your doctor can then order an ultrasound to find out where the fibroid or fibroids are located, and what type of fibroid it is.