If you’ve ever had a period that seemed way heavier than it should be, or a strange pressure in your lower belly, you might be dealing with fibroids. The good news is you’re definitely not alone: These non-cancerous growths affect a majority of women. Here’s what you need to know about navigating the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of fibroids.

What is the cause of fibroids?

Fibroids might sound scary, but it’s important to remember that they’re typically non-cancerous growths consisting of muscle and tissue in or on the uterus. They are a very common diagnosis in women, especially during their reproductive years.

“Up to 80% of women will develop them by their 30s or 40s,” says Dr. Sherry Ross, board-certified OB/GYN and women’s health expert at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California. “While anyone with a uterus can get fibroids, some groups are more likely to develop them, including Black women and those with a family history, like a mother or sister with fibroids.”

What are the symptoms of fibroids?

Symptoms of fibroids can vary, and some women are even asymptomatic. However, most of the time symptoms include:

• Heavy periods.
• Pelvic pain or pressure.
• Pain during sex.
• Anemia-like fatigue or weakness.
• Difficulty urinating or having a bowel movement.

Ross says it’s important not to ignore the symptoms that “feel off.” For women trying to get pregnant or who have recurrent miscarriages, a conversation with your doctor is important.

“If your period is soaking through products quickly, lasting much longer than usual or interfering with your daily routine, it’s worth getting checked out,” she says.

Diagnosis and treatment of fibroids

If you have symptoms of fibroids, it’s important to talk with your doctor about getting a proper diagnosis. This can be done through a pelvic exam, ultrasound and labs. Additional imaging, such as an MRI or a hysteroscopy, may also be helpful.

Treatment for fibroids can vary based on symptoms and severity, so it’s important that you work with your medical team to find the best treatment for you. Options may include waiting and watching, or medications like low-dose birth control, IUD or GnRH agonists. Surgical options are also available for certain cases.

“Many people think fibroids always need treatment or always cause symptoms,” says Ross. “Neither is true. Some fibroids are completely harmless and don’t require intervention. Treatment decisions depend on how you feel, not just the diagnosis.”

Fibroids: No need to ‘just deal with it’

While fibroids are often benign and the symptoms might be manageable, it’s important to talk with your provider about how disruptive they can be.

“You don’t have to ‘just deal with it,”’ says Ross. “There are effective ways to manage fibroids, and getting answers early can help you avoid complications and feel better sooner. Fibroids can cause real problems depending on their size and location. So while they aren’t cancer, they can still have a big impact on your daily life.”