About Womens' Health

What are fibroids?

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Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the womb (uterus).

They're sometimes known as uterine myomas or leiomyomas.

Fibroids are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue and can grow anywhere in the womb and vary in size
considerably. Some can be the size of a pea, whereas others can be the size of a melon.

Many women are unaware they have fibroids because they do not have any symptoms.

Women who do have symptoms (around 1 in 3) may experience:

• heavy periods or painful periods which can lead to low blood count.

• tummy (abdominal) pain

• a persistently distended lower tummy (abdomen)

• lower back pain

• Problems with passing urine – either urinating too often or difficulty urinating

• constipation

• pain or discomfort during sex

If the fibroids are in certain positions or a certain size, this can affect pregnancy or cause difficulty to
become pregnant.

How do I know that I have fibroids?

As most fibroids do not often cause symptoms, they're sometimes diagnosed by chance during a routine
gynaecological examination, test or scan.

For other women, the symptoms mentioned above would lead you doctor to investigate further. Your
doctor will usually refer you for an ultrasound scan and a gynaecologist if fibroids are found.

Why do I have Fibroids?

The exact cause of fibroids is unknown, but they have been linked to the female hormone oestrogen.

Oestrogen is the female reproductive hormone produced by the ovaries (the female reproductive
organs).

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Women produces oestrogen throughout our life usually from the start of our first period when we reach
puberty to our last period, when we reach our menopause age.

Fibroids usually develop during these times when oestrogen levels are at their highest.

They tend to shrink when our oestrogen levels are low, such as when we reach our menopause or when
we take medication to make us temporarily stop our periods.

Should I remove my Fibroids?

Fibroids do not need to be treated if they are not causing symptoms. After the menopause, they'll often
shrink without treatment.

If you do have symptoms caused by fibroids, your gynaecologist will be able to advice you on the best
treatment for your fibroids.

Where can I get more information?

Book an appointment with Dr. Ida to discuss you concerns regarding your fibroids.