Types of Fibroids Explained

Fibroids are common, but no two cases are the same. Where a fibroid grows in the uterus it can affect everything—from symptoms to treatment options. If you have recently been diagnosed, understanding the different types of fibroids is a good place to start.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the four main types:

Intramural Fibroids

Intramural fibroids are the most common type. They grow within the muscular wall of the uterus and can expand inwards or outwards as they increase in size.

Common symptoms include:

• Heavy or prolonged periods
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• A feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen

Because they sit within the uterine wall, intramural fibroids can sometimes enlarge the uterus, making the abdomen feel bloated or firm. Smaller intramural fibroids may not cause noticeable symptoms, but larger ones often do.

Submucosal Fibroids

Submucosal fibroids develop just beneath the inner lining of the uterus and grow into the uterine cavity. Although they are less common, they are often the most disruptive.

They can cause:

• Very heavy menstrual bleeding
• Irregular bleeding between periods
• Fertility challenges

Even small submucosal fibroids can lead to significant symptoms because of their location. They directly affect the uterine cavity, which is why they are often linked to reproductive concerns.

Subserosal Fibroids

Subserosal fibroids grow on the outer surface of the uterus. Instead of affecting the uterine cavity, they extend outward into the pelvis.

Typical symptoms include:

• Pelvic pressure
• Lower back pain
• Frequent urination (if pressing on the bladder)
• Constipation (if pressing on the bowel)

Subserosal fibroids are less likely to affect menstrual bleeding but can become quite large and press on surrounding organs, leading to discomfort and pressure-related symptoms.

Pedunculated Fibroids

Pedunculated fibroids are attached to the uterus by a thin stalk. They can grow either inside the uterine cavity (pedunculated submucosal) or outside the uterus (pedunculated subserosal).

Symptoms may include:

• Sharp or sudden pain (if the stalk twists)
• Pressure symptoms similar to subserosal fibroids
• Irregular bleeding (if located inside the uterus)

These fibroids are less common but can be particularly uncomfortable if the stalk becomes twisted, cutting off blood supply to the fibroid.

Fibroid Treatment Options

Treatment depends on your symptoms, fibroid type and personal goals.

For many women, Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE) offers a non-surgical option that treats multiple fibroid types at once by blocking their blood supply. This can shrink fibroids and relieve symptoms without removing the uterus.

At Fibroid Care, we assess your scans, explain your fibroid type and guide you toward the most suitable treatment plan—so you can move forward with confidence.