Understanding Uterine Fibroids: What Every Woman Should Know

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus (womb). They are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary enormously in size — from tiny seedlings that are undetectable to the human eye, to large masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus significantly.

Fibroids can grow as a single nodule or in clusters. They may be located within the wall of the uterus (intramural), on the outer surface (subserosal), or project into the uterine cavity (submucosal). The location and size of fibroids play a significant role in determining what symptoms, if any, a woman experiences.

How Common Are Fibroids?

Fibroids are remarkably common. Research suggests that up to 70 to 80 per cent of women will develop at least one fibroid by the age of 50. However, many women are entirely unaware they have fibroids because they do not always cause symptoms. It is estimated that only about 20 to 50 per cent of women with fibroids experience symptoms significant enough to seek medical attention.

Fibroids are most commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 30 and 50 and tend to shrink after the menopause, when oestrogen levels decline. Certain factors can increase your risk, including a family history of fibroids, being of African-Caribbean descent, obesity, and early onset of menstruation. You can learn more about fibroids and their causes on our dedicated information page.

Common Symptoms

While many fibroids are asymptomatic, those that do cause symptoms can have a profound effect on a woman's quality of life. The most common symptoms include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding — periods that are unusually heavy or prolonged, sometimes leading to iron-deficiency anaemia
• Pelvic pain and pressure — a feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvis
• Frequent urination — fibroids pressing on the bladder can cause you to need the toilet more often
• Constipation — pressure on the bowel from large fibroids
• Pain during intercourse — depending on the location and size of the fibroid
• Lower back pain — fibroids that press on nerves near the spine
• Abdominal bloating — the uterus may enlarge noticeably, particularly with larger fibroids

The severity of symptoms varies widely from woman to woman, and some women with large fibroids may have no symptoms at all, while others with smaller fibroids may experience significant discomfort.

When Should You Worry?

Fibroids are almost always benign. The risk of a fibroid being cancerous (a condition known as leiomyosarcoma) is extremely low — less than 0.1 per cent. So in the vast majority of cases, a fibroid diagnosis is not a cause for alarm in itself.

However, you should seek medical advice if your symptoms are affecting your daily life. Heavy periods that cause anaemia, persistent pelvic pain, or difficulty with urination or bowel function all warrant investigation. If you notice a rapid increase in abdominal size or develop new symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional promptly.

When to Seek Specialist Help

If you have been diagnosed with fibroids, or if you suspect your symptoms may be caused by fibroids, seeking specialist input can make a significant difference. A specialist fibroid clinic, such as the North London Fibroid Clinic, can offer a comprehensive assessment including advanced imaging and a discussion of all available treatment options — from watchful waiting and medication through to minimally invasive procedures like Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE).

It is especially important to seek specialist advice if:

• Your periods are so heavy that they interfere with your work, social life, or wellbeing
• You are experiencing chronic pelvic pain
• You are trying to conceive and have been told you have fibroids
• Your GP has recommended a hysterectomy and you would like to explore alternatives
• Your symptoms are worsening or new symptoms have appeared

Treatment Options Are Available

The good news is that fibroids are highly treatable. Treatment options range from medication to manage symptoms, through to surgical and non-surgical procedures. In recent years, minimally invasive treatments such as UFE have transformed the landscape, offering women effective symptom relief without the need for major surgery, and with a much faster recovery time.

At the North London Fibroid Clinic, our multidisciplinary team of gynaecologists and interventional radiologists works together to ensure you understand all your options and receive a personalised treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to fibroids, we are here to help. Book a consultation with our specialist team to discuss your options and take the first step towards feeling better.