Uterine fibroids are common, non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus. These growths consist of muscle and connective tissue. While many individuals may have them, they often cause no discernible symptoms. Fibroids are particularly prevalent during a person’s reproductive years.
Visualizing a 3cm Fibroid
A 3-centimeter (cm) fibroid is approximately 1.2 inches in diameter, comparable in size to a strawberry or a large blueberry. Classifications vary, but fibroids between 1 cm and 5 cm are often considered small, while those from 2 cm to 5 cm are medium. Fibroids can range from a millimeter to over 20 centimeters. A 3cm fibroid is smaller than the typical average size, which ranges between 5 cm and 10 cm.
Symptoms and Size
Not all fibroids cause symptoms, and many individuals with a 3cm fibroid may not experience any issues. However, the presence of symptoms is not solely determined by size, but also by the fibroid’s location within the uterus and the total number of fibroids present. Even a 3cm fibroid can lead to noticeable symptoms if its position interferes with normal bodily functions.
Common symptoms associated with fibroids include heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, which can sometimes lead to anemia. Individuals might also experience painful periods, pelvic pressure, or a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen. Pressure on nearby organs can cause frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, constipation, or discomfort in the lower back or legs. For instance, a 3cm fibroid located just beneath the uterine lining (submucosal) could result in heavy bleeding, while a similar-sized fibroid on the outer surface (subserosal) might press on the bladder, leading to increased urinary frequency.
Beyond Size
The location of a fibroid within the uterus significantly influences the type and severity of symptoms. Intramural fibroids, the most common type, grow within the muscular wall of the uterus and can lead to changes in menstrual patterns, back pain, or bloating. Submucosal fibroids grow just under the inner lining and protrude into the uterine cavity. Even if small, these are often associated with heavy menstrual bleeding and can sometimes affect fertility.
Subserosal fibroids develop on the outer surface of the uterus. When large, they can cause pressure symptoms like frequent urination, constipation, or back pain, rather than directly affecting menstrual bleeding. Pedunculated fibroids are attached by a stalk and can cause pain if they twist. Fibroids can also grow or shrink over time, often influenced by hormone levels.
What to Do Next
If you have been diagnosed with a 3cm fibroid, or suspect you might have one due to symptoms, consulting with a healthcare professional is an important next step. They can provide a personalized assessment, typically using an ultrasound for diagnosis. The best course of action depends on several factors, including the presence and severity of your symptoms, the fibroid’s exact location, your age, and any plans for future pregnancy.
For many individuals with a 3cm fibroid that causes no or mild symptoms, a healthcare provider may recommend watchful waiting, where the fibroid is monitored over time. Fibroids often shrink or resolve after menopause, as hormone levels decline. If symptoms are bothersome, medical management with medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or hormonal contraceptives can help alleviate pain and reduce bleeding. Your doctor will discuss the most suitable management or treatment options tailored to your specific situation.