What is a myoma (fibroid)?

A myoma, commonly known as a fibroid, is a benign tumor that develops in or around the uterus. Fibroids are medically known as leiomyomas and are tumors of the smooth muscle, the tissue that normally makes up that wall of the uterus. Fibroids are a common condition that affects approximately 20% of childbearing women. African Americans are more likely than Caucasians to develop the disease, as are women who are over 30 years of age, are overweight or obese, or have never given birth (Source: PubMed). The fibroids may appear as one large fibroid or many small fibroids. Their cause is not known; however, they appear to be associated with the presence of estrogen. During childbearing years when a womans estrogen levels are high, fibroids slowly increase in size. But during menopause when a womans estrogen levels are low, fibroids rarely occur. The symptoms of fibroids may occur frequently or only occasionally. The disease course varies among individuals. Some women have no symptoms at all, while others have abdominal pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, difficulty urinating, or pain during sexual intercourse. A fibroid can grow large enough to put pressure on the bladder, making it difficult to expel urine and eventually causing infection. Medications, hormones, and surgical procedures are effective in reducing symptoms or in removing the fibroid completely. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) for serious symptoms, such as uncontrollable vaginal bleeding, dizziness, rapid heart rate (tachycardia), or fainting or loss of consciousness. Seek prompt medical care if you are being treated for uterine fibroids but mild symptoms recur or are persistent. Fibroids may not produce symptoms. In other cases they may cause abnormal bleeding or discomfort. The symptoms can vary in intensity among individuals.
Common symptoms of fibroids

You may experience fibroid symptoms daily or only occasionally. Any of these symptoms can be severe:

Abdominal, pelvic, or lower back pain that can be severe Abdominal pressure Abdominal swelling, distension or bloating Heavy bleeding during menstrual period (menorrhagia) Longer than normal menstrual periods Pain during sexual intercourse Urgent need to urinate Vaginal bleeding between menstrual periods

Serious symptoms that might indicate a life-threatening condition

Rarely, fibroids can be associated with life-threatening symptoms. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have heavy vaginal bleeding associated with any of the following symptoms:

Abdominal, pelvic, or lower back pain that can be severe Confusion or loss of consciousness for even a brief moment Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath Dizziness or fainting Pale skin or pallor Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)

http://www.bettermedicine.com/article/myoma-fibroid/causes