Gynaecology
Uterine fibroids: what symptoms and what treatments?
Fibroids are benign tumours of the muscle of the uterus. They are common and may cause no symptoms; their number, size and above all their location determine their effects.
Written by the Polycrabat Sevamed team · Published on
In brief
- Fibroids are common and often silent: heavy periods, anaemia, pelvic pressure or frequent urge to urinate may lead to a consultation.
- Ultrasound determines their size and position, MRI can help before certain treatments, and any wish for pregnancy is part of the assessment.
- Monitoring, medicines or a procedure: the choice is guided by the symptoms and the patient’s plans, with different consequences for fertility.
When should you see a doctor?
Heavy periods, anaemia, pressure in the pelvis, frequent urge to urinate or certain fertility problems may lead to an assessment. Heavy bleeding with faintness, intense pain or signs of marked anaemia require prompt assessment. Not all pelvic symptoms are caused by a fibroid.
Which assessment is useful?
Gynaecological examination and ultrasound determine the size and position of the fibroids. An MRI can help before certain treatments or when the anatomy is complex. A blood count looks for anaemia if bleeding is heavy. The team takes into account any wish for pregnancy, age and treatments already tried. The position of the fibroids in or near the uterine cavity and other possible causes of infertility must be assessed.
Monitoring and drug treatments
Simple monitoring is possible if the fibroid causes no problems. Drug treatments can reduce bleeding or improve symptoms.
Which procedures may be discussed?
Depending on the situation, hysteroscopy, myomectomy, uterine artery embolisation or hysterectomy may be discussed. These options do not have the same consequences for fertility, risk of recurrence and recovery.
Useful questions to ask
- Are my symptoms (bleeding, pain, pelvic pressure) really caused by a fibroid?
- Where are my fibroids located, and does that matter for a pregnancy plan?
- Which option (monitoring, medicines, hysteroscopy, myomectomy, embolisation, hysterectomy) suits my situation, and with what consequences for fertility?
Frequently asked questions
Must a benign fibroid always be removed?
No. Without symptoms, monitoring may be enough.
Is size enough to choose the treatment?
No. Location, symptoms and pregnancy plans also matter.
This content provides general medical information. It does not replace a consultation or a personalised decision by your care team. In case of serious or sudden symptoms, contact the emergency services in your country or a doctor without delay.
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How are bleeding and anaemia monitored?
Reducing heavy periods is a concrete goal of treatment. The team checks haemoglobin when necessary and explains when to come back for heavy bleeding or unusual pain.