Fibroids (also called uterine leiomyomasor myomas) are non-cancerous growths that develop in the muscle wall of the womb (uterus). They are very common—up to 1 in 3 women will develop them at some point in their lives. Fibroids vary in size from a pea to a melon and can grow singly or in clusters.

Types of fibroids

• Submucosal fibroids– grow into the lining of the womb and may affect fertility and cause heavy bleeding.

• Intramural fibroids– grow within the muscular wall of the womb, sometimes distorting its shape.

• Subserosal fibroids– grow on the outside of the womb and may press on nearby organs (bladder, bowel).

Not all fibroids cause problems. Some women only discover they have them during a scan for another reason.
When fibroids do cause symptoms, they may include:

• Heavy or prolonged periods

• Pelvic pain or pressure

• Bloating or a feeling of fullness

• Pain during sex

• Frequent urination or constipation (from pressure on the bladder or bowel)

• Fertility and pregnancy difficulties (depending on size and location)

• Fibroids can make periods heavier and longer. This happens because they increase the surface area of the womb lining and may interfere with the womb’s ability to contract and stop bleeding. Submucosal fibroids in particular are strongly linked to heavy bleeding and clotting.
  
• Some women develop anaemia (low iron) as a result of prolonged heavy periods, which can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and reduced quality of life.
  

Fibroids are usually diagnosed with an ultrasound scan. Sometimes MRI or hysteroscopy (looking inside the womb with a camera) may be needed to fully understand their number, size, and position.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on symptoms, fibroid size/location, and future fertility wishes. Options include:

• Watchful waiting: No treatment if symptoms are mild.

• Medication: To control heavy periods or shrink fibroids temporarily.

• Minimally invasive procedures:

  • Hysteroscopic resection(removing fibroids inside the womb).

  • Uterine artery embolisation (UAE)(blocking blood supply to fibroids).

  • Radiofrequency ablation(destroying fibroid tissue).

• Surgery:

  • Myomectomy(removing fibroids while preserving the womb).

  • Hysterectomy(removing the womb, usually for severe symptoms when fertility is not a concern).

• Period pain: Fibroids can cause more painful periods, often described as cramping or aching.

• Pelvic pressure: Larger fibroids can press on pelvic organs, giving a sensation of heaviness.

• Pain during sex: Fibroids that distort the womb or cervix can make intercourse uncomfortable.