Let’s talk about uterine fibroids

What are uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas or myomas) are among the most common conditions in people with uteruses. They are non-cancerous growths or tumours, and can grow to a range of different sizes. 

Why should I know about them?

Although most fibroids go unnoticed and undiagnosed, they have been linked with issues in reproduction. This can mean anything from the inability to conceive, to pregnancies that can’t be carried to term, to babies with health conditions themselves or the premature death of infants. Fibroids are also associated with several other conditions, influencing healthcare costs for women and accounting for more than 30% of hysterectomies (a surgical procedure to remove the uterus).

Who do they affect?

Fibroids affect women during their reproductive years. According to the WHO, a woman's reproductive age is on average between the ages of 15-49. 

What are the symptoms?

There isn’t anything you can do to prevent uterine fibroids occuring, and in many people, uterine fibroids present with no symptoms at all. Around 40% of women with uterine fibroids, however, will experience some or all of the following symptoms (with varying levels of severity):  

  • Pelvic pain (pain or discomfort in your lower tummy) 

  • Abnormal or irregular periods or bleeding 

  • Back pain

  • Infertility or trouble conceiving.  

What can I do to prevent or manage fibroids?
Detecting fibroids early and developing the right treatment plan are really important for managing fibroids.

The best steps you can take are: 

  1. To undergo regular medical screening. Talk to your doctor about what your best options are in terms of securing regular appointments to check for fibroids and assess your uterine health. 

  2. Speak to your doctor about possible symptoms. If you think you might have any of the symptoms associated with fibroids, raise them with your doctor and/or gynaecologist. 

  3. If fibroids are found, discuss the most suitable available treatment options with your doctor. These could include medications or surgical procedures.