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MYADVO ADVOCACY GUIDE

FIBROIDS 101

Last updated on July 30, 2024

Words by the MyAdvo Team, Medically reviewed by:

Dr. Navya Mysore
MDCM, CCFP​

What are fibroids?
Fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas or myomas, are growths that develop in or on the muscular wall of the uterus. They are almost always benign (non-cancerous). They can be small like seeds or large enough to distort the uterus. Made of muscle and fibrous tissue, fibroids can appear as a single growth or in clusters. They are a chronic condition that can recur despite treatment, though it does not always happen. 


 What are the different types of fibroids?

  • Intramural Fibroids: Grow within the uterine wall, the most common type.

  • Subserosal Fibroids: Develop on the outer surface of the uterus, extending into the pelvis.

  • Submucosal Fibroids: Form just beneath the inner lining of the uterus, potentially causing heavy menstrual bleeding even if small.

  • Pedunculated Fibroids: Attached by a stalk to the uterine wall.​

Adapted from Merit Medical.

Understanding the size of fibroids is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment and management plan.


 How big are fibroids?​

Who gets fibroids?
Fibroids are very common. Up to 1 in 4 people with a uterus of reproductive age are affected.

Up to 80%

OF PEOPLE WITH A UTERUS WILL DEVELOP FIBROIDS BY AGE 50 

Who is at higher risk for fibroids?

The current research suggests that fibroids are more likely to affect:

  • Individuals between the ages of 30 and 40.

  • Black women more frequently than women of other ethnicities.

  • Individuals who start their periods before 10 years old.

  • Those with a family member with fibroids.

  • Individuals who are overweight or obese, or have high blood pressure.

  • A diet high in red meat and low in green vegetables, fruit, and dairy.

  • A Vitamin D deficiency. 

 

Fibroids disproportionately affect Black women, who are more likely to develop fibroids than women of other racial groups:

  • 3x more likely to develop fibroids.

  • 7x more likely to need surgery for fibroids compared to non-Hispanic white women.

  • 2x more likely to undergo hysterectomy.

  • More likely to get fibroids earlier in life and develop symptoms.

 

Despite fibroids being so common in women, there is still a significant lack of research on why they develop, particularly for Black women. More inclusive research is essential, yet Black women only make up 15% of participants in uterine fibroid studies. 

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MYADVO TIPS

  • Talk about fibroids with your family: Understanding your family’s medical history can offer crucial insights into your own health risks. Start by asking the women in your family about if they’ve ever experienced fibroid symptoms or been diagnosed with fibroids. 

  • Establish care and don’t skip your annual check-up: Regular check-ups with your primary care provider or gynecologist are essential. During these visits, discuss family history of fibroids, symptoms you may be experiencing, and any changes
    in your health. Early detection and management are key to effectively
    handling fibroids. 

What causes fibroids?

Due to lack of research, the exact cause of fibroids is unknown, but researchers believe several factors play a role:   

  • Hormonal imbalance: Higher levels of estrogen compared to progesterone can contribute to fibroid growth. Estrogen and progesterone hormone levels increase and decrease throughout a woman’s life, which is why women who’ve entered menopause often see fibroids shrink as estrogen decreases.  

  • Genetics

    • ​Family History: If your family members, like your mother or grandmother, have had fibroids, your risk is higher. 

    • Genetic Changes: Fibroids often have genetic mutations different from normal uterine cells, suggesting a genetic link. 

  • Insulin-like Growth Factors: These are substances in your body that help tissues grow and stay healthy. Studies have shown that women with more insulin-like growth factors are more likely to develop fibroids because these factors stimulate fibroid cell growth.

  • Extracellular Matrix (ECM) Overproduction: The ECM helps cells stick together. There is more ECM in fibroids than in normal uterine cells. This excess ECM makes fibroids denser and more fibrous, helping them trap more growth factors, promoting their growth. 

Recent studies also link fibroid growth to:

  • High Blood Pressure: A 2024 study found that women with untreated high blood pressure (hypertension) had a 19% higher risk of developing fibroids than those without hypertension.

  • Environmental Chemicals: In 2022, scientists at Northwestern Medicine found that environmental phthalates, toxic chemicals found in many everyday products, are linked to increased fibroid growth. These chemicals can activate growth pathways in fibroids. 

​

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  • Participate in research: Consider participating in clinical studies to help researchers better understand what causes fibroids and develop improved treatments. Your involvement can make a significant impact on advancing fibroid research.

MYADVO TIPS

What are symptoms of fibroids?

At least 25% of women will experience symptoms from fibroids, but many women with fibroids experience no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include:

​

  • Changes in menstruation:

    • Heavier periods (ex. Needing to change a pad or tampon every two hours or less,
      or overnight).

    • Longer periods (ex. a period that lasts longer than seven days).

    • Passing blood clots the size of a quarter or larger.

    • More painful period cramps.

    • Spotting or vaginal bleeding between periods.

    • Iron deficiency anemia from blood loss.

  • Pain:

    • Pain in the abdomen, stomach, lower back, or leg pain.

    • Pelvic pain or pressure.

    • Pain during sex.

  • Urination:

    • Frequent urination or trouble urinating.

    • Difficulty emptying the bladder.

  • Constipation, rectal pain, or difficult bowel movements.

  • Bloating or enlargement of lower abdomen area, potentially causing a protruding abdomen when fibroids grow up to 5 to 10 centimeters. 

  • Infertility as well as multiple miscarriages and/or delivery complications during childbirth. 

  • Weight gain as one fibroid can weigh approximately 1 pound. 

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MYADVO TIPS

  • Don’t ignore pain: We’ve been trained to put up with period pain, but it shouldn’t be normalized. Severe period pain or pain during sex, as well as other symptoms like heavy bleeding or frequent urination, should not be overlooked. Learn how to recognize these signs and seek medical advice as they may indicate that fibroids need immediate treatment.

  •  Seek a second opinion: If a provider normalizes your pain or symptoms, don’t hesitate to find another primary care provider or gynecologist.

  • Track your menstrual cycle: Keep a detailed record of your menstrual cycle, including the length, amount of bleeding, presence of blood clots, and levels of pain. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider to diagnose and manage fibroids effectively. 

How are fibroids diagnosed?

Paying attention to your symptoms and any changes in your menstruation is the first step in detecting fibroids, especially since not everyone may experience symptoms. If fibroids are suspected, additional tests can confirm their presence and help you make an informed decision about treatment options. 

 

Imaging

  • Ultrasound scan: Uses sound waves to create a picture of the uterus and identify fibroids.

    • Pelvic Ultrasound: Ultrasound probe is moved over the outside of your lower abdomen and pelvic area.

    • Transvaginal Ultrasound: A small ultrasound probe is inserted into your vagina.

  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Uses magnets and radio waves to create a 3D image of the uterus. Provides a more detailed image of the uterus to determine the size and location of fibroids and can be used to track growth of fibroids over time. 

    • Procedure: Patients lie in an MRI machine to gather highly detailed images of your pelvic area, specifically the uterus.

    • Duration: The test can take between 45-60 minutes.

    • Contrast: A gadolinium-based contrast may be used to further enhance the imaging.

    • Cost: Often more expensive than ultrasound scans, sonograms, or HSG.​

Procedures

  • Saline sonogram (Sonohysterography, Saline infusion sonography, or hysterosonography): Uses a saline solution to expand the uterine cavity for better imaging of the uterine lining to diagnose fibroids.

    • Procedure: A catheter (a thin, flexible tube) is inserted through the cervix, and saline solution is injected into the uterus. An ultrasound probe is then used to take images.

    • Duration: Typically takes about 30 minutes.

    • Pain: Pain or discomfort may occur during the procedure due to the use of an instrument called a tenaculum to hold the cervix, movement of the catheter in the uterus, or the expansion of the uterus by the saline solution.

  • Hysterosalpingography (HSG): Detects blockages, scarring, and other abnormalities of the fallopian tubes and the uterine cavity that might affect fertility. Commonly used for fertility assessments or after certain gynecological surgeries.

    • Procedure: A contrast dye is injected through the cervix into the uterus and fallopian tubes. X-ray images are taken to visualize the flow of the dye through the reproductive organs.

    • Duration: Usually takes about 30 minutes.
      Pain: Pain or discomfort may occur during the dye injection.

  • Hysteroscopy: Minimally invasive surgical procedure with no incision (cut) needed that allows for direct view and sampling of the uterine cavity. Can be more accurate than other imaging techniques for diagnosing uterine pathology.

    • Procedure: A thin, lighted telescope (hysteroscope), occasionally with a camera attached, is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus to examine the uterine cavity for fibroids or other irregularities.

    • Duration: Can take up to 30 minutes when done in a doctor’s office. If combined with an operative hysteroscopy, surgery is performed in a hospital or surgical center and can take up to 1 hour or more, depending on the complexity of the procedure. Patients are often treated on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to go home the same day, but the total time at the facility includes preparation and recovery, which may take several hours.

    • Pain: Can be done under local or general anesthesia. ​

  • Laparoscopy: Minimally invasive surgical procedure where a thin device that requires small incisions (0.5 to 1 cm) just below or through the belly button to see the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries for fibroids or other irregularities.

    • Procedure: A thin device (laparoscope), with a camera and light, is inserted through small incisions. It often precedes an operative laparoscopy to remove fibroids during the same procedure. 
      Duration: Can last between 1 to 3 hours, depending on whether it is solely diagnostic or combined with an operative laparoscopy. Done on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to go home the same day, but the total time at the facility includes preparation and recovery, which may take several hours.
      Pain: Often done under general anesthesia so the patient is asleep and pain-free during the procedure.​

​

​

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MYADVO TIPS

  • Communicate Concerns About Pain: Before procedures, discuss any pain concerns with your primary care provider or gynecologist. Explain past experiences with pain during medical procedures to help your provider understand your pain tolerance.

  • ​Recommended questions to ask your provider:

    • ​What are other diagnosis methods if I'm worried about the pain with this one

    • What are the benefits and drawbacks of each?

    • What are the different types of anesthesia or pain relief options, such as local anesthetics?

    • Can I take over-the-counter pain or anxiety medication before the procedure? 

    • Are there any alternatives to using a tenaculum for holding my cervix?

    • Can you explain step-by-step what will happen during the procedure?

    • Can we pause from the procedure for a moment? I'm feeling pain and discomfort.

    • What can I do to relieve any pain or cramping after the procedure?

    • I don’t want to take narcotic pain killers, what other options are available?

How do you treat fibroids?

Not all fibroids require treatment but for those with fibroid symptoms, treatment options depend on how severe those symptoms are, the size and location of the fibroids, and health goals, especially if they want to have children in the future.

​

Medications

  • If you have mild symptoms, your provider may suggest taking medication ranging from
    over-the-counter (OTC) to hormonal treatments:

    • Anti-inflammatory painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used for mild and occasional pain or discomfort due to fibroids.

    • Iron supplements can also help from getting anemia or if you are already anemic.

    • Birth control pills can be prescribed to control symptoms of fibroids. Low-dose birth controls do not make fibroids grow and help control heavy bleeding. It’s important to discuss birth control side effects with your provider.

    • Progestins are a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone and thin the lining of the uterus to reduce heavy bleeding due to fibroids. Progestins are usually taken by mouth. They can also prevent pregnancy, such as an IUD (intrauterine device) that releases small amounts of progestin into the uterus.

    • GnRHa (gonadotropin releasing hormone agonists) are drugs that shrink fibroids, administered via injection, nasal spray, or implant. The most common one is Lupron®. These drugs are often used before surgery to make fibroids easier to remove and reduce bleeding risk. Providers usually do not administer for more than 6-12 months due to the risk of bone thinning. The drugs lower estrogen, causing a temporary “medical menopause” with side effects like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, depression, insomnia, decreased sex drive, and joint pain. These drugs can be costly as insurance companies may only cover some or none of the cost.

 

Nonsurgical Treatments  

  • Transcervical Radiofrequency Ablation (Sonata): An incision-free procedure used to shrink fibroids and reduce symptoms. Most effective for patients with few fibroids up to 5 cm with bleeding due to fibroids. Patients can get pregnant post-procedure, but more clinical data is needed.

    • Procedure: A device that emits ultrasound waves and radiofrequency energy is passed through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. The ultrasound locates the fibroids, and the radiofrequency energy shrinks them.

    • Duration: About 30 minutes to 1 hour. Typically done on an outpatient basis so patients can go home the same day.

    • Pain: Minimal pain experienced during and after Sonata procedure. Sedation and different forms of anesthesia are generally used.​

  • Endometrial Ablation (NovaSure): Uses heat energy to remove the lining of the uterus. Best candidates for this treatment are patients not interested in becoming pregnant in the future and do not have a high risk of surgical complications. 

    • Procedure: Device is placed through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. It expands to fit the shape of the uterus and delivers heat to break down the uterine lining (endometrium). 

    • Duration: Usually less than 5 minutes. Typically done on an outpatient basis so patients can go home the same day. 

    • Pain: Mild or no pain during or after the procedure. Local anesthesia is often used.  

  • Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): A minimally invasive procedure to treat fibroids by cutting off their blood supply. Effective for multiple fibroids or very large fibroids. Although it is possible to get pregnant after UFE, providers often recommend UFE for patients not interested in becoming pregnant in the future as some studies have shown UFE can be associated with pregnancy and delivery complications. 

    • Procedure: Performed by an interventional radiologist. A small tube called a catheter is inserted into an artery in your wrist or groin and guided to the blood vessels supplying the fibroids. Small particles are injected to block the blood supply, causing the fibroids to shrink. 

    • Duration: About 1 to 2 hours. Done on an outpatient basis so patients can go home the same day. 

    • Pain: No pain during procedure but severe pain, similar to cramping, may be experienced post-procedure. Sedation and local anesthesia are used during the procedure. Narcotic pain relievers may be prescribed to help with post-procedure pain, which can occur for several days afterwards. 

 

Surgical Treatments  

  • Myomectomy: Surgical removal of fibroids treats bleeding, infertility, pain, and pressure. Myomectomy preserves the uterus, making it suitable for women wanting to become pregnant, though new fibroids can grow after surgery, especially in those with a history of multiple fibroids. The 4 main types of myomectomy are hysteroscopy, laparoscopy, laparotomy, and robotic-assisted, depending on fibroid size, number, and location. 

    • Hysteroscopy: Procedure to remove fibroids accessing the uterus through the vagina. 

      • Procedure: A thin, lighted scope is inserted through the vagina into the uterus to diagnose and remove fibroids on the inner wall of the uterus. 

      • Anesthesia: Can be done with local or general anesthesia. 

      • Duration: Takes about 30 minutes to an hour. 

      • Recovery: Typically 1-3 days, depending on the number, size, and location of the fibroids. Often done as an outpatient procedure, so patients can go home the
        same day. 

    • Laparoscopy: Procedure to remove fibroids accessing the uterus through small incisions in the abdomen, often below or through the belly button. 

      • Procedure: A lighted scope and surgical instruments are placed through small incisions in the abdomen to see and remove fibroids.

      • Anesthesia: Performed under general anesthesia. 

      • Duration: Takes about 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity.

      • Recovery: Usually up to 2 weeks. Often done as an outpatient procedure, so patients can go home the same day.​ 

    • Robotic-assisted myomectomy: Enhanced form of laparoscopic myomectomy to remove fibroids using instruments connected to robotic arms guided by the surgeon.  

      • Procedure: Small incisions are used to insert a miniature camera and surgical tools, which are controlled by a robotic device. This provides a high-resolution, 3D view and greater precision. 

      • Anesthesia: Performed under general anesthesia. 

      • Duration: Takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity. 

      • Recovery: Usually up to 2 weeks. Often done as an outpatient procedure, so patients can go home the same day. 

    • Laparotomy (Abdominal myomectomy or open myomectomy): Procedure to remove fibroids accessing the uterus via a several inches long incision. 

      • Procedure: An abdominal incision to remove large fibroids, multiple fibroids, or fibroids deep in the uterine wall. Incision is usually on the bikini line.  

      • Anesthesia: Performed under general anesthesia. 

      • Duration: Takes 1 to 2 hours. 

      • Recovery: Requires a 1-3 day hospital stay, with full recovery in 4-6 weeks. 

    • Hysterectomy: The surgical removal of the uterus and the only treatment that guarantees fibroids won’t recur. Best candidates for this procedure are patients who do not wish to become pregnant in the future and for those whose fibroid symptoms are debilitating to their quality of life. The decision to pursue a hysterectomy is valid and reasonable. It’s also important to remember that in many cases, fibroids are treatable without needing to remove the uterus.​ 

      • Procedure: Can be done via open surgery, laparoscopy (small incisions), robotic-assisted surgery, or vaginal surgery (uterus removed through the vagina). 

      • Anesthesia: Performed under general anesthesia. 

      • Duration: Typically 1 to 3 hours but varies based on the method used. 

      • Recovery:

        • ​Minimally invasive surgery: Up to 4 weeks, may require an overnight hospital stay. 

        • Open surgery: Up to 6 weeks, may require a 3-day hospital stay. 

 

If you do not have fibroid symptoms, it’s still important to discuss them regularly with your provider and get checked at annual exams for growth. 

  • Watchful Waiting: If fibroids are not causing significant symptoms, you can monitor them by tracking symptoms and keeping an open line of communication with your primary care provider or gynecologist. It’s important to know that fibroids can be unpredictable and grow very large and fast, which can lead to complications.  

  • Lifestyle management: More research is needed to understand the cause of fibroids, but there is preliminary evidence to suggest lifestyle changes help manage symptoms. These can also help reduce the likelihood of fibroid regrowth. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options. 

    • Healthy diet 

      • Increase Fruits and Vegetables: Several studies suggest a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can lower the risk for uterine fibroids. These foods provide essential nutrients and antioxidants that promote overall health.  

      • Limit Red Meat: Research indicates that high consumption of red meat is associated with an increased risk of developing fibroids. 

      • Limit Alcohol Intake: More evidence is needed but some research suggests daily alcohol consumption may be linked to an increased risk of fibroids. Alcohol interferes with hormone production.​ 

    • Regular Exercise

      • Regular physical activity is linked to a lower risk of fibroids. Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces body fat, which can lower estrogen levels.  

      • Obesity is a known risk factor for fibroids. A higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with an increased risk of fibroids.  

      • Limit Exposure to Estrogen: Minimizing exposure to environmental estrogens found in plastics, pesticides, and certain personal care products may reduce the risk of fibroid growth. Using BPA-free products and choosing organic foods can limit exposure. 

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  • Prioritize your symptoms: Deciding when to treat fibroids can be overwhelming, but you can start by paying close attention to how your symptoms impact your daily life and well being. If fibroids grow too large, noninvasive treatments may not work, leading to more complex surgery. Speak about symptoms with your primary care provider or gynecologist, so they can monitor you effectively and come up with a treatment plan tailored to your goals. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pelvic pain, heavy bleeding that causes dizziness, weakness, fainting, a noticeable increase in the size of your abdomen

  • Ask your provider questions before deciding on treatment: Understanding all your options, the risks, benefits, recovery time, impact on fertility, long-term outcomes, costs, and the provider's experience will help you make the best decision for your health. Don't hesitate to seek clarity on any aspect of your treatment plan.

MYADVO TIPS

What complications can occur with fibroids?

Although fibroids are usually benign and many individuals may not have symptoms, complications can occur depending on fibroid location and size. Fibroids that do cause symptoms can also severely impact quality of life from daily activities to emotional well-being.​​

  • Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Untreated fibroids can cause prolonged and heavy menstrual periods, leading to severe blood loss and anemia. Anemia can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

  • Severe Pain: Fibroids can cause severe pelvic pain, pressure, and discomfort. Fibroids attached to the uterus by a stem may twist, leading to acute pain, nausea, or fever. Fibroids that grow rapidly or start breaking down can also cause significant pain. 

  • Urinary and Bowel Issues: Large fibroids can press against the bladder, causing frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, or urinary retention. They can also press against the rectum, leading to constipation and discomfort during bowel movements.​

 

Infertility and Pregnancy Complications:  

  • Infertility: Although it is possible to get pregnant with fibroids, some may interfere with fertility by blocking the fallopian tubes, altering the shape of the uterus, or affecting the uterine lining. Submucosal fibroids that grow in the uterine lining can interfere with embryo implantation and cause recurrent miscarriages.

  • Pregnancy: During pregnancy, fibroids can increase the risk of complications such as placental abruption which cuts off oxygen and nutrients to the baby, fetal growth restriction if the fibroid obstructs the baby’s growth, and preterm delivery when a baby is born too early before 37 weeks of pregnancy. These complications can lead to miscarriage, preterm birth, or labor complications. â€‹

  • Rare Complication – Leiomyosarcoma: If left untreated, fibroids can rarely lead to leiomyosarcoma,  a type of cancer that forms in the smooth muscle tissue of the uterus. Although it is very uncommon, occurring in less than 1% of fibroid cases, it is a potential complication that requires immediate medical attention. Rapid growth of fibroids or sudden changes in symptoms can raise concerns about leiomyosarcoma, and it’s important to consult a healthcare provider if such changes occur. â€‹â€‹

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  • Plan Ahead with your provider: If you are planning to be pregnant, discuss your fibroids with your OB/GYN to proactively understand what trying to conceive, pregnancy or childbirth looks like for you. This discussion is crucial to determine if fibroid treatment is necessary before trying to conceive. 

MYADVO TIPS

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: How much bleeding is too much with fibroids? 

  • A: Bleeding is considered too much if you soak through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours, if you need to use both a tampon and a pad simultaneously, if you pass large blood clots, or if you experience bleeding that interferes with your daily activities. Consult a healthcare provider asap if you experience these symptoms. 

  • Q: Can fibroids turn into cancer?

  • A: Rarely, fibroids are almost always benign. 

  • Q: Do all fibroids need to be removed?

  • A: No, it depends on symptoms, size, and location of the fibroids, as well as your health and fertility goals.

  • Q: Can you prevent fibroids from growing back?

  • A: There is no guaranteed way, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating well and exercising, and monitoring hormone levels can help. 

  • Q: Does birth control help reduce or increase fibroids?

  • A: It depends. Hormonal birth control may help some patients manage symptoms like heavy bleeding, but it may also contribute to fibroid growth in others. Some studies suggest long-term use of birth control pills may reduce the risk of developing fibroids, while other research suggests an increased risk of fibroids with oral contraceptive use. The differences in findings may be due to varying hormone levels in different pill brands. Non-hormonal methods like condoms or diaphragms do not affect fibroids. It's important to discuss your options with a healthcare provider, especially if fibroids are already present. 

  • Q: Can I get pregnant with fibroids?

  • A: Yes, most individuals with fibroids can get pregnant naturally and experience no issues during pregnancy. When fibroids do impact fertility, they are often submucosal. 10% to 30% of patients may face pregnancy complications, primarily pain, especially with fibroids larger than 5 cm in the later trimesters. Fibroids generally don’t change size, but about one-third may grow in the first trimester due to increased estrogen levels, while others may shrink after delivery. If fibroids are present, advocate for yourself by asking your gynecologist why testing can be done to understand fertility or pregnancy complications.

  • Q: Can you treat fibroids without surgery? 

  • A: Yes, there are non-surgical treatments available such as medication, UFE, and MRI-guided focused ultrasound. These options can help shrink fibroids and manage symptoms. Advocate for yourself by asking your gynecologist which treatments work best for you.

  • Q: Is hysterectomy the only way to treat fibroids? 

  • A: No, other treatments include myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids), medication, and minimally invasive procedures like uterine fibroid embolization. Always ask your healthcare provider what other treatment options are available as well as their benefits, risks, and recovery times. Don't hesitate to seek a second opinion if you feel unsure about the recommended treatment plan.

  • Q: Are there lifestyle changes that can help manage fibroids? 

  • A: Yes, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and getting regular exercise may help manage fibroid symptoms.

Why MyAdvo Cares

At MyAdvo, we are dedicated to empowering women to advocate for themselves in the healthcare system. Our Fibroid 101 Guide is designed to equip you with essential knowledge about uterine fibroids, helping you take an active role in their care. Understanding fibroids enables you to ask informed questions, discuss treatment options confidently with healthcare providers, and make decisions that best fit your personal needs and lifestyle. MyAdvo is here to support your journey and ensure you feel empowered at each step of your healthcare experience. 

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