Which description best matches the typical history and physical examination findings for uterine fibroids?

Which description best matches the typical history and physical examination findings for uterine fibroids?

• A. Always causes severe pain
• B. Ranges from asymptomatic to menorrhagia and pelvic pressure; palpable, firm, nontender, asymmetric mobile mass(es)
• C. Always causes infertility
• D. Only occurs in postmenopausal women

Answer: (B)

Uterine fibroids commonly have a variable clinical picture, from no symptoms at all to menorrhagia with pelvic pressure. On pelvic exam, the uterus is typically enlarged and irregular due to multiple fibroids, and the masses are firm, non-tender, and can create an asymmetric contour from one side to the other. This combination of possible asymptomatic course, heavy or painful bleeding in some patients, and a palpable, firm, non-tender, irregularly enlarged uterus with nodularity best fits the classic presentation of fibroids. They don’t always cause pain, and they aren’t a guarantee of infertility, though they can contribute to fertility problems in some cases. They also do not occur exclusively in postmenopausal women; they are most common in reproductive years and may shrink after menopause.

Uterine fibroids commonly have a variable clinical picture, from no symptoms at all to menorrhagia with pelvic pressure. On pelvic exam, the uterus is typically enlarged and irregular due to multiple fibroids, and the masses are firm, non-tender, and can create an asymmetric contour from one side to the other. This combination of possible asymptomatic course, heavy or painful bleeding in some patients, and a palpable, firm, non-tender, irregularly enlarged uterus with nodularity best fits the classic presentation of fibroids.

They don’t always cause pain, and they aren’t a guarantee of infertility, though they can contribute to fertility problems in some cases. They also do not occur exclusively in postmenopausal women; they are most common in reproductive years and may shrink after menopause.