One of the most frequent questions patients ask in the consultation room after being diagnosed with uterine fibroids is,

"Doctor, how big does a fibroid need to be before I need treatment?"

Many people believe that the decision to treat is based solely on the size of the fibroid, but in reality, 'location' is just as important as size. 

Even for fibroids of the same size, symptoms and treatment timing can vary completely depending on where they are located.

① Subserosal Fibroids

Subserosal fibroids grow on the outer wall of the uterus. They often cause relatively few symptoms. 

Therefore, even if they are somewhat large, if there are no specific symptoms and the patient is close to menopause, we often monitor them regularly with follow-up observation.

② Intramural Fibroids

This is the most common type of fibroid, growing within the muscular wall of the uterus. 

Treatment is considered when the fibroid grows and causes symptoms such as:

•Increased menstrual bleeding

•Severe menstrual cramps

•Abnormal uterine bleeding

•Anemia

•Frequent urination or discomfort during urination due to pressure on the bladder

•Constipation or bowel discomfort due to pressure on the intestines

③ Submucosal Fibroids

Submucosal fibroids develop near the lining of the uterus (endometrium). Even when small, they frequently cause a sudden increase in menstrual volume or blood clots. Because they can cause anemia and affect pregnancy planning, proactive treatment is often considered.

④ Cervical Fibroids

Fibroids occurring in the cervix often present symptoms even if they are small. In particular, they can cause bleeding after sexual intercourse or vaginal bleeding, so treatment is necessary even for small sizes.

◎ Ultimately, 'Symptoms and Location' Matter More Than 'Size'

Whether to treat uterine fibroids is decided by comprehensively evaluating:

•Where it is located

•How fast it is growing

•Whether there is bleeding or pain

•Whether it is pressing on surrounding organs

Rather than simply looking at how many centimeters it measures.

Therefore, having a fibroid does not mean everyone needs treatment; conversely, 

a small fibroid does not necessarily mean you can rest completely at ease.

It is essential to check the changes, symptoms, and location of the fibroid together through regular check-ups and ultrasound examinations.

《 Dr. Min-kyung Kim’s One-Line Note 》

Many people worry only about the size of their fibroids, but even with fibroids of the same size, symptoms and treatment methods can vary depending on their location. I believe that checking how it actually affects your body is far more important than the numbers. I recommend consulting with a gynecology specialist to accurately confirm the location and status of your fibroids. Thank you ^^

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