A leiomyoma or fibroid as it is more commonly know arises from anywhere in the uterus and in most cases are benign (non-cancerous). Over time, only 1% of them every become cancerous. They can vary in size, location and number.
It is usually the bigger fibroids that can cause symptoms like heavy menses, prolong menses or abdominal distention / pain. Most small fibroids are asymptomatic and less likely to be cancerous so are usually not a cause of concern.
Having said that though, if a small fibroid is growing into the uterine cavity (submucosal), this can distort the endometrium(lining of the uterus) and cause irregular menses, prolonged menses, or heavy menses. This fibroid, even though small, may then need to be surgically removed in order to alleviate the symptoms.
