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This article addresses women's health topics including reproductive and gynaecological health. Content is presented in a clinical, evidence-based manner consistent with Korea Ministry of Health and Welfare guidelines.
This content is published by DoctorsInKorea.com for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed KMA physician for personalised guidance.
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths of the uterus, present in up to 70% of women by age 50. Most cause no symptoms, but heavy periods, pelvic pain, and fertility problems bring many women to seek treatment.
Uterine fibroids (also called leiomyomas or myomas) are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop in the muscular wall of the uterus. They are the most common non-cancerous tumours of the female reproductive tract. Fibroids affect up to 70% of women by the age of 50, though many women are never aware they have them because they cause no symptoms.
Fibroids vary greatly in size — from seedling to melon-sized. Their location within the uterus is more important than their size in determining symptoms. Submucosal fibroids (growing into the uterine cavity) most often cause heavy bleeding and fertility problems. Subserosal fibroids (on the outer surface) can cause pelvic pressure and urinary symptoms. Intramural fibroids (within the uterine wall) are the most common type.
Common symptoms when present: heavy or prolonged menstrual periods (the most common symptom), pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, constipation or rectal pressure, lower back pain, and fertility difficulties.
Fibroids are oestrogen-sensitive and typically grow during reproductive years and shrink after menopause. Women of African descent have higher rates and more severe fibroid disease.
Treatment depends on symptoms, size, location, and fertility plans. Observation ('watchful waiting') is appropriate for symptom-free or mildly symptomatic fibroids. Medical treatments include hormonal therapy (combined pill, Mirena IUD, GnRH agonists) to manage bleeding. Surgical options include myomectomy (removing fibroids while preserving the uterus — preferred when fertility is desired) and hysterectomy (definitive treatment, removes the uterus). Uterine fibroid embolisation (UFE) is a minimally invasive radiological procedure available at major hospitals in Korea.
Key Points
- Benign (non-cancerous) — malignant transformation is extremely rare
- Affect up to 70% of women; most have no symptoms
- Heavy periods and pelvic pressure are the most common symptoms
- Shrink naturally after menopause when oestrogen falls
- Myomectomy preserves the uterus and fertility
- Uterine fibroid embolisation (UFE) is a non-surgical option available in Korea
Causes & Risk Factors
- Oestrogen and progesterone — fibroids grow in response to these hormones
- Genetic predisposition — run in families
- African ethnicity — significantly higher rates and severity
- Obesity — higher oestrogen levels
- Vitamin D deficiency — associated with increased fibroid risk
When to See a Doctor
- Heavy periods soaking through pads or tampons every 1–2 hours
- Severe period pain or pelvic pressure
- Periods lasting more than 7 days
- Difficulty becoming pregnant or recurrent miscarriages
- Rapid abdominal bloating or noticeable abdominal swelling
For emergencies in Korea, call 119
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This content is published for educational purposes only. For accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment, consult a licensed KMA physician in Korea.
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Medical Disclaimer
This article is published by DoctorsInKorea.com for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace a professional clinical evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. For accurate medical diagnosis and personalised treatment paths, please book an appointment with a licensed KMA physician. For immediate life-threatening medical emergencies in Korea, please call 119.
Sources & References
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026