Up to one in three women will experience fibroids at some stage in their lives, yet many still have questions about their cause, diagnosis and treatment. These non-cancerous growths develop inside or outside the uterus and can lead to symptoms such as painful, heavy, or irregular periods, as well as fertility issues. Although the exact cause remains unknown, fibroids are known to depend on hormones, particularly oestrogen, which promotes their growth. They can appear within the uterine cavity, its wall, on its outer surface, or attached to it via a stem-like structure.
Are the majority of patients with fibroids the same age?
Most women with fibroids are typically in their 30s. Many have used oral contraceptives for some time before discontinuing them, which often leads to the onset of symptoms such as heavy bleeding or pain. Alternatively, some women may not have used oral contraceptives and have been experiencing these symptoms for a while. The majority of cases involve young, fertile women.
After menopause, the decrease in oestrogen levels usually causes fibroids to shrink naturally.
How can a woman suspect she has fibroids?
A woman may suspect she has fibroids when she experiences symptoms such as changes in menstruation—periods that are longer, more frequent, or heavier than usual, along with painful periods or bleeding between periods. She may also notice:
- Dull, heavy, or aching pain in the lower back or abdomen.
- Difficulty urinating
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
- Rectal pain
- Difficult bowel movements.
Some women may feel a large lump in their abdomen or face challenges with infertility or recurrent miscarriages. Doctors often detect fibroids during routine pelvic ultrasound scans, early pregnancy scans and follicular tracking scans. You can get in touch with aprivate gynaecologist in London if you suspect fibroids.
Fibroids Diagnosis
Fibroids can manifest with the above symptoms. Otherwise, doctors may discover them during routine pelvic ultrasound examinations. Once suspected clinically, healthcare providers typically confirm the diagnosis through several methods:
- Ultrasonography: This technique employs sound waves to generate images of the uterus and other pelvic organs.
- Hysteroscopy: This procedure allows visual examination inside the uterus using a slender, camera-equipped device.
- Hysterosalpingography: This specialised X-ray test detects alterations in the shape and dimensions of the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes.
- Laparoscopy: This method visualises the interior of the abdominal cavity using a camera attached to a thin, long instrument.
- MRI: Magnetic waves are employed to produce precise images of bodily tissues.
If you are searching for expert advice, consider a reputablegynaecologist in London at Top Gynaecologists Clinic, offering comprehensive treatments and services.
Safe and Effective Fibroid Treatments in London
Uterine fibroids, non-cancerous growths in the uterus during reproductive years, can cause significant issues such as excessive bleeding and pain. Treatment options are available, each with its drawbacks:
Hormonal agents
These can be used alongside other therapies but may lead to menopause-like symptoms and bone loss with prolonged use. Recurrence rates are high, making it a temporary solution.
Endometrial ablation
It is effective for controlling heavy bleeding. However, it is inappropriate for everyone and does not reduce fibroid size.
MRgFUS
Non-invasive with no surgical incision or anaesthesia required, but not ideal for large or multiple fibroids. The procedure can be lengthy (up to 4 hours) with limited data available.
Myomectomy
It preserves fertility but involves a stretchy recovery period. There’s a risk of fibroid recurrence and heavy bleeding post-surgery, with moderate success rates.
Hysterectomy
Completely removes fibroids and associated symptoms by removing the uterus. However, it results in loss of fertility and requires a prolonged recovery.
Uterine fibroid embolisation
No surgical incision or anaesthesia is needed, with a favourable recovery time. However, post-procedure pain is typical.
We recommend considering fibroid treatment in London from professional private gynaecology clinics for expert care and effective symptom management.
Do all fibroids require treatment?
No, fibroids that do not cause symptoms are small or appear in a woman nearing menopause. It often does not require treatment. However, specific signs and symptoms may indicate the need for treatment:
- Heavy or painful periods
- Bleeding between periods
- A rapid increase in size
- Infertility
- Pressure symptoms, difficulty in urination or bowel movements
- Pelvic pain or abdominal lump
Can medications treat fibroids?
Medications can alleviate heavy bleeding or pelvic pain caused by fibroids, but they do not prevent fibroid growth or make them disappear. Examples include painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, oral contraceptive pills, progesterone pills, intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs), and GnRH agonists.
Which surgeries can treat fibroids?
Myomectomy involves surgically removing fibroids while preserving the uterus. Gynaecologists perform this procedure using laparoscopy, hysteroscopy, or conventional surgery with an abdominal incision.
Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus along with the fibroids. This procedure, which may involve laparoscopic, abdominal, or vaginal approaches, is considered when other treatments have failed or when fibroids are large and the uterus has completed its childbearing function.
Other treatment options include uterine artery embolisation and high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1) What happens during the consultation?
Typically, your gynaecologist will assess for fibroids after discussing your symptoms. They will usually schedule an ultrasound to examine the uterus. If the ultrasound results are inconclusive, they may recommend further imaging with an MRI.
Additional methods to diagnose fibroids include hysterosalpingography, which uses dye to highlight the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes, and hysteroscopy, where a miniature microscope is inserted through the vagina for better visualisation of the cervix.
Q2) How long does it take to recover from surgery?
Recovery time varies depending on a woman’s symptoms and overall health. Typically, abdominal surgery requires 4-6 weeks for recovery. Conversely, surgeries conducted through the vagina are often outpatient procedures with minimal recovery needed.
Q3) Does contraception aid in managing fibroid symptoms?
Contraception can be beneficial for managing heavy bleeding in some women. Alternatively, the Mirena coil offers effective relief, especially for those not planning pregnancy. Medical treatments for fibroids focus on regulating hormonal cycles to shrink fibroids rather than preventing or eliminating them.
Q4) Can fibroids affect a woman’s fertility?
Fibroids projecting into the womb can often hinder pregnancy implantation. Additionally, large fibroids within the womb can enlarge during pregnancy, leading to painful red degeneration. In such cases, it’s advisable to discuss fibroid removal before attempting pregnancy.
Q5) Can lifestyle changes alleviate fibroid symptoms?
Adopting dietary adjustments guided by a nutritionist can help regulate hormone levels, potentially halting fibroid growth.
