Which Size of Fibroid is Dangerous?

Uterine fibroids are benign tumours, which develop on the wall of the uterus. The other name for uterine fibroid is leiomyomas. They are very common conditions and usually develop at the childbearing age of the women. A recent study found that almost every woman will develop at least one fibroid before they turn 50.

Fibroids can develop in both single as well as clusters. Based on the location and size of the fibroids, they can affect the surrounding organs such as the stomach, rectum, kidneys and bladder. For instance, the pressure against the bladder caused by fibroids can lead to frequent urination, intense cramping and heavy bleeding during the menstrual cycle.

The type of fibroid is classified based on its location. There are four types of uterine fibroids namely intramural fibroid, subserosal fibroid, submucosal fibroid and pedunculated fibroid. Like its type, the classification of its size also plays a significant role when it comes to seeking medical help.

In this blog, we will discuss more about which size of fibroid is dangerous, its symptoms and health risks that indicate the need for medical advice or diagnosis.

Are Uterine Fibroids Dangerous?

Uterine fibroids are generally not dangerous. Since they are benign, they do not require any treatment if they are smaller in size. However, larger fibroids can cause significant symptoms, requiring medical intervention depending on the severity.

Which Size of Fibroid is Dangerous?

Generally, fibroids that are 10 centimeters (cm) or larger are considered dangerous because they can cause severe complications.

Many women wonder which size of fibroid is dangerous in mm.

Generally, uterine fibroids that are larger than 20 mm in diameter can be dangerous. Yet, the size of a fibroid is not the only factor but also the symptoms and location that determines whether it's dangerous or not.

In contrast with malignant tumours, uterine fibroids do not spread to other tissues or organs of the body. In addition, fibroids can undergo changes that transform them into a cancerous (malignant) tumour, which is an extremely rare case. Only 1 out of 350 women with uterine fibroid will undergo this transformation.

Different Sizes of Uterine Fibroids

How big can uterine fibroids get?

The size of the uterine fibroids may vary considerably, including small, medium, and large. The classification system is important to determine the appropriate care by the healthcare professionals. The following is the list of potential health risks that are associated with different fibroid sizes.

Small Fibroids

• Size: The size may vary from 1 to 5 cm. They can be roughly as small as a grain of rice.
• Health risks: Generally, small fibroids are harmless and do not cause any noticeable symptoms. Yet, small fibroids, which size of fibroid is normal can cause health issues like severe cramping during the menstrual cycle. The issues may vary depending on the location of the uterine fibroid.

Medium Fibroids

• Size: The size may vary from 5 to 10 cm. They can be around the size of a grapefruit.
• Health risks: Medium-sized uterine fibroids can contribute to the development of mild symptoms. The symptoms include pelvic pain and irregular menstrual cycle. Even though the mild symptoms are exhibited by the medium-sized uterine fibroids, it can contribute to the development of infertility issues if not treated at the right time.

Large Fibroids

• Size: The size may vary from 10 cm to more. They can be as large as a watermelon.
• Health risks: Large fibroid size can most often exhibit severe symptoms and health risks. These large-sized fibroids add more pressure on the surrounding pelvic organs causing chronic pain and infertility. This contributes to the need for surgical intervention to address the issue.

How are Fibroids Measured?

With the help of ultrasound imaging techniques, uterine fibroids are diagnosed and measured. The technique also helps the physician to analyse its exact location, which contributes to developing the appropriate treatment plan.

In certain cases, these imaging ultrasound tests do not provide clear and detailed pictures. Hence, physicians opt for MRIs, which provide detailed and clear pictures of the fibroid.

Weight of the Uterine Fibroid

How much do fibroids weigh?

Generally, small and medium-sized uterine fibroids weigh only a few grams. On the other hand, the larger fibroids can weigh from 10 kg to more – in extremely rare cases. These large-sized fibroids can cause individuals to gain more weight rapidly. However, this is not because of fat accumulation in the body. Rather, the growing fibroid pretends to build mass around the abdomen, which leads to noticeable changes in the physique.

Does Fibroid Size Really Matter?

Yes, the size of the uterine fibroid does really matter.

Even though the fibroids are smaller in size at present, how big they can get is a secondary concern, as they tend to grow rapidly and cause severe symptoms. Hence, being treated at the right time can prevent complications and significantly improve the management of symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Large Fibroids

• Severe cramping during the menstrual cycle
• Irregular or unpredictable menstrual cycle
• Bleeding between periods
• Lower back pain
• Pressure in the abdomen
• Anemia
• Constipation
• Painful sex
• Frequent urination

What Size Uterine Fibroids Should Be Removed?

The uterine fibroids that are considered dangerous can be removed through surgical interventions, including:

• Endometrial ablation
• Uterine artery embolization
• Myomectomy
• Hysterectomy

In general, fibroids that are larger than 10 cm in size are considered dangerous as they add more pressure on the surrounding pelvic organs, causing severe pain and other health issues. Physicians usually suggest surgical intervention when the fibroids are larger than 5 cm in size, particularly if they cause symptoms such as infertility, rapid growth, or severe pain.

What to Expect After a Fibroid Surgery?

After the successful removal of a fibroid through surgery from a facility like Aval Clinics, you can expect a range of experiences, including:

• No general anaesthesia
• Preservation of the uterus
• Lower risk of complications
• Compassionate outpatient care
• Quicker recovery time

Summary

Women can get pregnant with PCOS. However, the complications and struggles are very real. Hence, it is recommended to have a proper diagnosis from the reputed fertility specialist, if you believe you might have PCOS. Lifestyle changes and weight management combined with appropriate medical treatments can greatly enhance your chances of getting pregnant if fertility is a concern.