Uterine Fibroids
If uterine fibroids were detected during a checkup: When to monitor and when to treat. - **When to monitor:** - **When to treat:**
Fibroids do not always require surgery.
Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that develop in the uterine muscle. They are quite common, affecting a significant percentage of women of reproductive age, and rarely turn into cancer.
- If there are no symptoms or the size is small, it is standard to monitor them with ultrasound every 6 months to 1 year.
- Treatment is necessary in cases such as: excessive menstrual bleeding leading to anemia, severe pelvic pain or pressure (frequent urination), rapid growth of the fibroids, or when they are located in a position that may affect pregnancy.
Source: 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 · as of 2026-08-13
There are various treatment options available.
Hormone medication, myomectomy to preserve the uterus (laparoscopic or robotic), uterine artery embolization, HIFU (high-intensity focused ultrasound), and hysterectomy are options that can be chosen depending on the situation. The best approach varies based on age, pregnancy plans, and the location of the fibroids. If you have been recommended for surgery but are unsure, it is a good idea to seek a second opinion from another OB/GYN.
Frequently asked questions
Does having fibroids mean you can't get pregnant?
Most fibroids do not cause problems with pregnancy. They may only affect implantation if they are located inside the uterus (submucosal) or are large. If you are planning a pregnancy, it is recommended to have the location and size of any fibroids evaluated in advance.
Does eating pomegranates or soybeans cause fibroids to grow?
The evidence that plant-based estrogens in food cause fibroids to grow is not conclusive. Consuming a normal diet is generally not a problem, but high-dose hormone supplements should be discussed with a doctor.
Sources for this page
· 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 (as of 2026-08-13)Last checked: 2026년 8월 13일
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