What are they?

Fibroids are benign tumors of the uterus made up of muscle and fibrous tissue. They may be single or multiple and can sometimes reach a huge size. Fibroids may grow on the outside of the uterus, or inwards into the uterine cavity, and some will develop a stalk - pedunculated fibroids.

 

What are the symptoms?

In many cases, fibroids will cause no symptoms. However, they can result in heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeds, and sometimes lower abdominal pain, a sensation of fullness or dragging feeling in the pelvis. If fibroids exert pressure on the bladder then painful and frequent urination may develop, while pressure on the bowel can cause backache and constipation.

How are they diagnosed?

Your doctor may diagnose fibroids on a pelvic examination. An ultrasound scan of the pelvis is another more accurate way of revealing fibroids.

What causes them?

Poor liver function can play a part in hormonal imbalances resulting in conditions such as fibroids and endometriosis. Estrogen is dominant and there is a concurrent deficiency in progesterone.

 

Treatment

Fibroids which are not causing any symptoms require no treatment. For women suffering heavy periods or pain, there are two main options:

• A hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) provides a permanent cure.

• In younger women who wish to have children or those who are fearful of a hysterectomy, an operation called a myomectomy can be performed. This is where the fibroids are 'shelled out', thereby conserving the uterus. It can be a difficult and tedious operation.

• Another procedure called endometrial ablation is sometimes suitable for small fibroids on the inner wall of the uterus. A small telescope (hysteroscope) is inserted through the cervix and the uterine lining removed by laser or cautery. This will help to stop or reduce heavy menstrual bleeding.