Uterine Fibroids
Which Size of Fibroid Is Dangerous? Understanding Risks and When to Seek Treatment
Uterine fibroids are incredibly common, affecting up to 70% of women by the age of 50. While many fibroids are small and harmless, others can grow large enough to cause uncomfortable—and sometimes serious—health problems. If you’ve recently been diagnosed with fibroids or suspect you may have them, one of the first questions you might ask is: “Which size of fibroid is considered dangerous?”
Let’s explore how fibroid size is measured, when it becomes a concern, and what treatment options are available—especially if you’re in the Dallas/Fort Worth area and considering non-surgical alternatives like Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE).
How Are Fibroids Measured?
Fibroids are typically measured in centimeters (cm), and sizes can range dramatically:
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Small fibroids: less than 2 cm (roughly the size of a cherry)
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Medium fibroids: 2–5 cm (comparable to a lime or small plum)
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Large fibroids: over 5 cm (as big as an orange or larger)
Your provider may also describe fibroids using gestational size comparisons (e.g., “equivalent to a 12-week pregnancy”) to help you visualize uterine enlargement.
When Does Size Become Dangerous?
Size alone doesn’t always determine whether a fibroid is dangerous. Location, number, and growth rate are just as important. However, certain fibroid sizes can be more likely to cause complications, including:
Fibroids Larger Than 5 cm
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May exert pressure on the bladder or bowels
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Can cause frequent urination or constipation
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Often lead to visible abdominal distention or a “fibroid belly bulge”
Fibroids Larger Than 10 cm
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Associated with a higher risk of anemia from prolonged heavy bleeding
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May distort the uterus significantly
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Can interfere with fertility or pregnancy
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May press on nearby organs like the kidneys or ureters
Rapidly Growing Fibroids
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Could indicate a rare condition called leiomyosarcoma (cancerous growth)
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Often trigger worsening symptoms in a short time
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Should always be evaluated with imaging
Symptoms That Suggest a Fibroid Is Too Large
Even if you’re not sure about the exact size, certain symptoms may suggest your fibroid has grown to a concerning level:
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Heavy menstrual bleeding (soaking through pads or tampons in under 2 hours)
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Menstrual periods lasting more than 7 days
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Pelvic pain or pressure
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Chronic fatigue from blood loss (anemia)
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Pain during intercourse
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Abdominal bloating or weight gain
Do Large Fibroids Affect Fertility?
Yes, large fibroids—especially submucosal or intramural types—can interfere with:
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Embryo implantation
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Uterine lining stability
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Fetal growth
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Carrying a pregnancy to term
Women trying to conceive should speak with a fibroid specialist before pursuing fertility treatments.
Fibroid Size FAQs
Can fibroids grow back after removal?
Yes. Surgical removal (myomectomy) removes existing fibroids, but it does not prevent new ones from forming—especially if hormone levels are unchanged.
Can small fibroids become dangerous over time?
They can. Some fibroids stay the same size, while others grow unpredictably due to hormone fluctuations, pregnancy, or unknown factors.
Is surgery the only option for large fibroids?
Not anymore. Non-surgical treatments like Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) can effectively shrink fibroids without removing the uterus.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization: A Minimally Invasive Option
UFE is a non-surgical, outpatient procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. During the procedure:
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A tiny catheter is inserted (usually through the wrist or groin)
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Microscopic particles are injected to block blood flow to fibroids
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Without blood, the fibroids shrink and symptoms improve
At MTVIR in Dallas, we’ve helped hundreds of women avoid major surgery and reclaim their quality of life.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Size Dictate Your Health
Whether your fibroid is the size of a grape or a grapefruit, what matters most is how it’s affecting your health. If you’re experiencing symptoms—or if your fibroid is growing—it’s time to talk to a specialist.
At MTVIR, we’ll help you explore all your options, including safe and effective non-surgical treatments like UFE.
MTVIR | Dallas, TX — Located at The Pyramids
Call (469) 458-9800 to schedule your consult today
