A uterine fibroid (leiomyoma or myoma) is a common non-cancerous growth of the muscular wall of the uterus. Fibroids are very common, particularly with increasing age, and many cause no symptoms, but some lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, or, depending on their size and location, difficulty conceiving or carrying a pregnancy. Fibroids are classified by their position relative to the uterine cavity: submucosal fibroids bulge into the cavity and are most likely to affect fertility and implantation; intramural fibroids sit within the muscle wall; and subserosal fibroids grow on the outer surface of the uterus and usually have the least effect on fertility. Not all fibroids need treatment. Decisions about monitoring, medical treatment, or surgical removal (myomectomy) depend on fibroid size, location, symptoms, and fertility plans, and should be made with a gynaecologist familiar with the fertility implications.
Also known as: leiomyoma, myoma, gaanth, fibroids
Related India guides
Sources
- ICMR Standard Treatment Workflows (icmr.gov.in/standard-treatment-workflows-stws)
- Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (fogsi.org)
Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.