Uterine fibroids are growths in the uterus. They often appear during the years usually able to get pregnant and give birth. Uterine fibroids are not cancer, and almost never turn into cancer. They are not linked with higher risk of other types of cancer in the uterus either. They are also called leiomyomas or myomas. A fibroid can distort the inside and the outside of the uterus. In extreme cases, some fibroids grow large enough to fill the pelvis or stomach area. They can make a person look pregnant.The formation of fibroids cannot be identified, because they often cause no symptoms. A healthcare professional can find fibroids during a pelvic exam or pregnancy ultrasound.