Fibroids, also called leiomyomas, are growths made of muscle and fibrous tissue. They can range from tiny, seed-like nodules to large masses that change the shape of the uterus. Fibroids are non-cancerous and are most common during the reproductive years, and often shrink after menopause.
Uterine Fibroids
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the wall of the uterus. Depending on their size and location, fibroids can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure, or fertility problems.
About Uterine Fibroids
Symptoms
Key Signs and Symptoms
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Frequent urination
- Difficulty emptying the bladder completely
- Constipation
- Lower back or leg pain
Early Symptoms
- Slightly heavier periods than usual
- Mild pelvic discomfort or pressure
- Often no symptoms at all
- Frequently discovered during a routine scan
Advanced Symptoms
- Heavy bleeding that can lead to anaemia
- Significant pelvic pain or pressure
- Visible swelling or enlargement of the lower abdomen
- Fertility or pregnancy-related complications
- Sudden, sharp pelvic pain, which may occur if a fibroid outgrows its blood supply
Causes
Common Causes
- Hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone can stimulate fibroid growth
- Genetic changes in uterine muscle cells
- Family history of fibroids
- Pregnancy hormones may cause fibroids to grow
Risk Factors
- Age between 30 and 40 years
- Family history of fibroids
- Black or African ancestry
- Being overweight or obese
- Early onset of menstruation
- Low vitamin D levels
Diagnosis
How the Condition Is Identified
Your doctor will usually begin with a pelvic examination and a pelvic ultrasound to assess the size, number, and location of the fibroids. Depending on your symptoms and treatment plan, additional tests may be recommended.
Tests or Screenings Involved
- Pelvic Ultrasound
- MRI Scan, for detailed assessment and surgical planning
- Hysteroscopy, to examine fibroids inside the uterus
- Complete Blood Count (CBC), to check for anaemia caused by heavy bleeding
Treatment
Available Treatment Options
Treatment depends on your symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, your age, and whether you plan to have children.
Medications
- Hormonal birth control
- GnRH agonists to temporarily shrink fibroids
- Tranexamic acid to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding
- Pain-relieving medications
Procedures or Therapies
- Watchful waiting for small fibroids that aren't causing symptoms
- Uterine artery embolisation
- MRI-guided focused ultrasound
- Myomectomy, which removes fibroids while preserving the uterus
- Hysterectomy for severe or recurrent fibroids
Prevention
Lifestyle Changes
Although fibroids cannot always be prevented, these measures may help reduce your risk:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat a balanced, nutritious diet
- Keep your vitamin D levels adequate
- Attend regular gynaecological check-ups
Preventive Measures
- Don't ignore heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Seek medical advice if symptoms become persistent
- Discuss family planning early if fibroids could affect fertility
When to See a Doctor
Warning Signs
See your doctor if you:
- Have heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Experience ongoing pelvic pain or pressure
- Need to urinate frequently or feel pressure on your bladder
- Have difficulty becoming pregnant
When Immediate Care Is Needed
Seek urgent medical attention if you:
- Develop sudden, severe pelvic pain
- Experience heavy bleeding along with dizziness, extreme tiredness, or paleness
- Have pelvic pain accompanied by fever
- Notice rapid swelling of your abdomen
FAQs
Many fibroids don't cause any symptoms. Some women notice heavier periods or mild pelvic discomfort, while others only discover fibroids during a routine ultrasound.