Some women in their reproductive years can develop uterine fibroids. Amongst these, intramural fibroids are the most common type. They are non-cancerous tumors that grow on the muscular wall of the uterus. Intramural fibroids range in size between 1mm and 200mm, that is, as small as a pea to as large as a grapefruit. Depending on their size, growth, and location, they might cause problems in pregnancy or delivery.
You may book a consultation at Treatment Range Hospitals if you have been diagnosed with an intramural fibroid. We have an expert gynecology team who will help you to understand the treatment options.
How Intramural Fibroids Differ From Subserosal And Submucosal Fibroids
Symptoms Of Intramural Fibroids
Is An Intramural Fibroid Dangerous?
Normal vs. Concerning Size Of The Fibroids
Treatment Options Based On Size And Symptoms
Intramural Fibroids And Pregnancy
How Intramural Fibroids Differ From Subserosal And Submucosal Fibroids
The three main types of uterine fibroids are intramural, subserosal, and submucosal fibroids. Their location and growth can highly influence the symptoms they develop, their effect on fertility, and treatment options.
| Type of Fibroid | Location | Symptoms | Impact on Fertility |
| Intramural | Grows within the uterine muscular wall | Pelvic pain, heavy periods, back pain | Affects fertility when large or when it distorts the uterus |
| Subserosal | Grows on the outer uterine surface; grows outward | Back pain, pelvic pressure, constipation, frequent urination, and abdominal fullness | Less effect on fertility unless it affects the surrounding structures |
| Submucosal | Grows underneath the uterine lining and projects into the uterus | Prolonged periods, heavy bleeding, anemia, cramping, and spotting | More likely to affect fertility and implantation. |
The only factor that determines the treatment is the location of the fibroid. Your gynecologist will help you determine whether the fibroid requires only medication or a minimally invasive procedure.
If you have been diagnosed with a fibroid but are not sure of the type, don’t worry. You can reach out to our gynecologist specialist for a detailed understanding. Schedule a consultation today.
Symptoms Of Intramural Fibroids
Intramural fibroids usually go unnoticed with no symptoms. They are usually discovered during pelvic examination and imaging.
The usual symptoms associated with these fibroids include:
- Heavy periods resulting in anemia
- Pelvic and lower back pain
- Bleeding or spotting between periods
- Heaviness or fullness in the stomach
- Pain during intercourse
- Constipation
- Frequent urination
Symptoms usually develop when fibroids enlarge or multiply. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should not ignore them. You can visit our Treatment Range Hospitals for a complete evaluation.
Is An Intramural Fibroid Dangerous?
Intramural fibroids are not dangerous in most cases. They are non-cancerous and do not cause any cancer risks. But they can be problematic in the following cases:
- Grow large and press nearby organs
- Cause heavy bleeding or severe pain
- Interfere with fertility and pregnancy
Most pregnancies with intramural fibroids cause no problems. However, in some cases, there is an increased risk of preterm labor, miscarriage and cesarean delivery.
If you are worried about your fibroid diagnosis, talk to our expert doctors at Treatment Range Hospitals.
Normal vs. Concerning Size Of The Fibroids
Fibroids are measured in millimeters or centimeters. The sizes are compared to the fruit sizes of pear, grape, or orange, which are helpful in conceptualizing the scan report. The usual sizes include:
- Small fibroids: They measure within three centimeters and often show no symptoms.
- Medium fibroids: They measure around three to six centimeters and most likely cause mild symptoms.
- Large fibroids: They measure around six to ten centimeters and cause pelvic discomfort and heavy bleeding.
- Very large fibroids: They measure around ten centimeters and above, causing frequent urination, uterine enlargement, and abdominal fullness.
Our expert gynecologists at Treatment Range Hospital can provide a clear explanation and advice for your condition.
Treatment Options Based On Size And Symptoms
Treatment for intramural fibroids depends on the symptoms you are experiencing, your age, the fibroid size and location.
- Wait and watch: For small fibroids, you will have to wait to see if they lead to any significant symptoms. Regular follow-ups and ultrasound scans are essential.
- Medical treatment: Anti-inflammatory drugs help relieve pain; hormonal contraceptives, including birth control pills and IUDs, can reduce bleeding; GnRH agonists temporarily help shrink fibroids.
- Minimally invasive treatments: Procedures such as MRI-guided focused ultrasound surgery (MRgFUS) and uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) do not need any surgical intervention and destroy fibroids.
- Surgery options: For large fibroids causing severe symptoms, options such as myomectomy (fibroid removal) and hysterectomy (uterus removal) are considered.
You can book an appointment now with us to find the treatment solutions tailored to your needs.
Intramural Fibroids And Pregnancy
Most women with intramural fibroids can have healthy pregnancies. In some cases, fibroids can lead to:
- Increased risk of miscarriage in the first trimester
- Severe pain due to fibroid degeneration
- Complications such as placental abnormalities, cesarean delivery, and preterm labor
Intramural fibroids during pregnancy are managed with rest, pain relief techniques, and close monitoring. Surgery is performed in rare cases.
If you have fibroids and are planning a pregnancy or have already conceived, consult our gynecology team at Treatment Range Hospitals for expert guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can intramural fibroids disappear?
Intramural fibroids do not disappear without treatment but might shrink over time. This usually occurs after menopause, when estrogen and progesterone levels decline. Since these hormones support fibroid growth, most fibroids shrink, and symptoms improve after menopause.
2. What foods should I avoid if I have intramural fibroids?
No medically proven food helps intramural fibroids disappear. But you should limit consumption of sugars, sodium foods, saturated fat, and processed foods. Ensure you eat a balanced diet, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and enough water.
3. What is the root cause of fibroids?
The exact cause is unknown, but they might develop from a combination of genetic changes, hormonal imbalances, and individual risk factors. Obesity, family history, early menstruation, and certain lifestyle factors might increase the risk of fibroids.
Concerned about the growth or cause of intramural fibroids? It is the right time to connect with our expert team at Treatment Range Hospitals for a correct diagnosis and treatment. Our priority is your health and well-being.
