Fibroids are masses of tissue that start from the uterine muscle and then grow into the cavity within the wall and push outward, toward the uterus. There are three types of fibroids, the most common to grow within the uterine wall (intramural), but fibroids can grow within the uterine cavity (intracavitary), or outside the uterus (subserosal). Health care providers can call the tumors, leiomyomas or fibroids. These lumps are not cancerous and require no treatment unless they are causing problems, such as pelvic pain, bleeding, or heavy menstrual periods or uncomfortable. br fibroid growing inside the uterine cavity is much less common than other types, but any type of fibroids may affect reproductive function and can cause infertility or miscarriage. br It is estimated that up to 1 in 5 women of childbearing age have uterine fibroids. They are found more frequently in women over age 30 rarely seen in women under 20 years and are more common in African Americans than Caucasians. br Although not known what causes uterine fibroids, which seem to require the hormone estrogen to grow. A fibroid is likely to continue growing slowly, while the woman is menstruating. At the onset of menopause, when hormone levels drop, fibroids can be reduced or disappear. br cervical polyps are small fingerlike growths, similar to a wart or skin tag, found in the cervix. They are common and are found more frequently in women over age 20 who have had children. Young women who have not yet started menstruating rarely have polyps. br A woman may have one or more polyps. Although usually not cancerous, all polyps should be evaluated by a physician. They are easy to remove and often do not grow back. br The cause of cervical polyps is not clearly understood. We could develop a chronic (long term), inflammation or obstruction or any alteration in blood vessels in the cervical canal. Researchers believe that polyps may also be an abnormal response to increased estrogen levels. br Many polyps do not interfere with the ability to become pregnant. However, large or multiple polyps can sometimes cause problems with fertility or the outcome of recurrent miscarriage. br br
