About fibroids
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that grow in or around the wall of the womb. They are made of muscle and tissue.
The growths can be small, like a pea or they can grow much larger.
Fibroids are common and can affect around 1 in 3 people who menstruate, at some point in their life. They can be more common as you age.
Fibroids are sometimes called uterine myomas or leiomyomas.
Learn more about
fibroids on NHS Inform, including information about symptoms and treatments.
Check out the video on a
fibroids journey by Alliance on YouTube.
Types of fibroids
There are various types of fibroids.
Intramural
| The most common type of fibroid, growing within the muscular wall of the womb
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Subserosal
| Develop on the outer wall of the womb and can sometimes become quite large
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Submucosal
| Grow just beneath the womb lining and may extend into the womb cavity
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Pedunculated
| Attached to the womb by a thin stalk, and can grow either inside or outside the womb
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Causes
The exact reason why fibroids develop is unknown. However, they may be linked to the hormones, oestrogen and progesterone produced by the ovaries.
Fibroids often grow while hormone levels are high, before
menopause and
pregnancy. They can become smaller after menopause.
Symptoms
Many people with fibroids have no symptoms. Others have symptoms including:
- heavy or painful periods
- tummy or lower back pain
- frequent urination
- constipation
- pain or discomfort during sex
- symptoms that interfere with everyday activities
When to contact your GP
Contact your doctor if any of the above symptoms are affecting your daily life.
At your appointment, they may arrange an
ultrasound scan to confirm if you have fibroids.
List of surgeries and GPs in Jersey
Treatment
Fibroids don’t always need treatment. If treatment is needed, your doctor may recommend:
- over-the-counter pain relief, such as ibuprofen. Always follow the instructions on the packet
- hormonal contraception, such as the pill to reduce heavy bleeding
- medication taken during your period to help control bleeding
- treatments that lower hormone levels and can make fibroids smaller
- surgery in some cases, if other treatments are not suitable or have not helped
Your doctor will discuss options and help you decide what’s best for you.
Fibroids and your fertility
Most people with fibroids can still get pregnant. In some cases, they can affect your fertility.
Speak to your doctor for advice and support with
getting pregnant.
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