Diagnostic Code 7613 · 38 CFR §4.116
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus that can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, pelvic pressure or pain, frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, constipation, and backaches. They are extremely common — most women develop fibroids at some point, though many have no symptoms. For women veterans, fibroids may be connected to service through hormonal disruption caused by service stress, exposure to environmental contaminants, or through aggravation during service when symptoms worsened and were documented in military medical records. DC 7613 covers disease, injury, or adhesions of the uterus, and fibroids are the most common condition rated under this code. The VA rates uterine conditions using the General Rating Formula for Disease, Injury, or Adhesions of Female Reproductive Organs.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Fibroids cause symptoms that do not require continuous treatment. The condition is present but manageable without ongoing medication. |
| 10% | Symptoms require continuous treatment — meaning ongoing medication, hormonal therapy, or regular medical management to control heavy bleeding, pain, or pressure symptoms. |
| 30% | Symptoms are not controlled by continuous treatment. Despite ongoing medication and management, heavy bleeding, pain, or pressure symptoms persist and affect daily functioning. |
A diagnosis confirmed by pelvic ultrasound or MRI showing the number, size, and location of fibroids is required. Treatment records showing medications tried (hormonal therapy, tranexamic acid, iron supplementation for anemia), procedures performed, and symptom management are important. Lab work showing anemia from heavy bleeding strengthens the claim. If fibroids were documented during service or symptoms worsened during service, include those records. Lay statements describing the impact of heavy bleeding, pain, and urinary symptoms on daily life and work are helpful.
Yes. The fact that a condition is common does not prevent service connection. If your fibroids were diagnosed during service, if symptoms worsened during service, or if they are linked to a service-related cause, they can be service-connected. Documentation of symptoms during service is the key.
Hysterectomy has its own rating criteria. Under DC 7617 (removal of uterus and both ovaries), you receive 100 percent for three months, then 50 percent. Under DC 7618 (removal of uterus with ovaries preserved), you receive 100 percent for three months, then 30 percent. These ratings may be higher than the fibroid rating itself.