Fibroids (myomas)

Understanding Fibroids (Myomas): Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options in London

Fibroids are incredibly common — but just because they’re common doesn’t mean they should be ignored. For many women, fibroids cause uncomfortable symptoms that impact daily life, fertility, and overall wellbeing. If you’ve been diagnosed with fibroids, or suspect you might have them, you’re not alone — and expert help is available.

At Happiher, we offer personalised care for women experiencing fibroids, combining advanced surgical expertise with a compassionate, patient-first approach. If you’re looking for a private gynaecologist in London, this guide will help you understand your options.

What Are Fibroids?

Fibroids, also called myomas or leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths of muscle and fibrous tissue that develop in or around the uterus (womb). They can vary greatly in size — from tiny seedlings that are undetectable by the human eye to large masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. Fibroid tumors are another term used to describe these growths.

Fibroids are classified based on their location:

• Intramural fibroids: grow within the muscular wall of the uterus

• Submucosal fibroids: grow into the cavity of the womb

• Subserosal fibroids: grow on the outer wall of the uterus

• Pedunculated fibroids: attached to the uterus by a stalk

Risk Factors

Uterine fibroids are a common condition that affects many women, particularly those of reproductive age. Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing fibroids:

• Family History: If your mother or sister had fibroids, you are more likely to develop fibroids yourself. Genetics play a significant role in fibroid growth.

• Age: Fibroids are most common in women between the ages of 30 and 50. As women age, the likelihood of developing fibroids increases.

• Ethnicity: Research suggests that African American women are more likely to develop fibroids than women of other ethnicities. They also tend to develop fibroids at younger ages and may experience more severe symptoms.

• Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of developing fibroids. Excess body fat can influence hormone levels, which may promote fibroid growth.

• Diet: A diet high in red meat and low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk of developing fibroids. Maintaining a balanced diet can be a crucial factor in managing your risk.

• Hormone Levels: High levels of estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle, can stimulate the growth of fibroids. Hormonal fluctuations during reproductive years are a significant factor in fibroid development.

Understanding these risk factors can help you take proactive steps in managing your health and seeking early intervention if necessary.

How Common Are Fibroids?

Most fibroids are extremely common, particularly in women aged 30–50. It’s estimated that up to 70% of women will develop fibroids at some point during their reproductive years, although not all will experience symptoms.

What Causes Fibroids?

The exact cause of fibroids isn’t fully understood, but several factors may play a role:

Fibroids develop due to a combination of hormonal, genetic, and lifestyle factors.

• Hormones: Oestrogen and progesterone promote fibroid growth

• Genetic factors: A family history of fibroids increases risk

• Ethnicity: Fibroids are more common and often more severe in women of African-Caribbean descent

• Lifestyle factors: Obesity and diet may influence risk

Symptoms of Fibroids

Many fibroids cause no symptoms and are found incidentally during routine pelvic exams or scans. However, the symptoms caused by fibroids, when they do occur, can significantly affect quality of life.

Common symptoms include:

• Heavy or prolonged periods

• Pelvic pain or pressure

• Bloating or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen

• Pain during intercourse

• Frequent urination

• Constipation

• Difficulty conceiving or recurrent miscarriage (in some cases)

The type, size, and location of fibroids determine the symptoms experienced.

How Are Fibroids Diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically begins with a thorough consultation and examination. Doctors play a crucial role in diagnosing fibroids and recommending appropriate treatment options.

At Happiher, diagnostic options may include:

• Pelvic ultrasound: the first-line imaging technique for detecting fibroids

• Transvaginal ultrasound: for a closer look at the uterus and ovaries

• MRI scan: for more complex cases, especially when planning surgery

• Saline sonohysterography: to evaluate submucosal fibroids within the uterine cavity

Accurate diagnosis ensures we can offer the right treatment — tailored to your symptoms, goals, and future fertility plans.

Fibroids and Pregnancy

Fibroids can affect pregnancy in several ways, and their impact largely depends on their size and location. Women with large uterine fibroids may experience:

• Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Fibroids can cause heavy bleeding during pregnancy, which can lead to anemia. This condition requires careful monitoring to ensure both mother and baby remain healthy.

• Pelvic Pain: The presence of fibroids can cause significant pelvic pain and pressure, making pregnancy more uncomfortable.

• Frequent Urination: Large fibroids can press against the bladder, leading to frequent urination. This can be particularly bothersome during pregnancy when bladder pressure is already increased.

• Miscarriage: Fibroids, especially those located in the uterine cavity, can increase the risk of miscarriage. The size and position of the fibroid are critical factors in this risk.

• Preterm Labor: The presence of fibroids can increase the risk of preterm labor and delivery. Close monitoring by your healthcare provider is essential to manage this risk.

• Placenta Previa: Fibroids can increase the risk of placenta previa, a condition where the placenta covers the cervix, potentially complicating delivery.

If you are pregnant and have fibroids, it is crucial to work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor your condition and manage any symptoms that arise.

Do Fibroids Affect Fertility?

Fibroids can sometimes interfere with fertility, depending on their size and location. Fibroids grow in various ways, and their size and location can impact fertility. Submucosal fibroids (those growing into the uterine cavity) are most likely to affect implantation and pregnancy outcomes. However, many women with fibroids conceive and have healthy pregnancies without issues.

If fertility is a concern, expert assessment and treatment planning are essential.

Complications of Untreated Fibroids

Untreated fibroids can lead to several complications, some of which can significantly impact your health and quality of life:

• Anemia: Heavy menstrual bleeding caused by fibroids can lead to anemia, a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells. This can result in fatigue, weakness, and other health issues.

• Severe Symptoms: Untreated fibroids can cause severe symptoms, such as intense pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, and frequent urination. These symptoms can disrupt daily life and require medical attention.

• Infertility: Large fibroids can make it difficult to become pregnant. They can interfere with the implantation of the embryo or block the fallopian tubes.

• Pregnancy Complications: Untreated fibroids can increase the risk of pregnancy complications, such as miscarriage, preterm labor, and placenta previa. These risks necessitate careful monitoring and management.

• Uterine Rupture: In rare cases, large fibroids can cause the uterus to rupture during pregnancy or delivery, posing a serious risk to both mother and baby.

• Cancer: While rare, fibroids can increase the risk of uterine cancer. It’s essential to seek medical attention if you’re experiencing symptoms of fibroids or if you’re pregnant and have a history of fibroids.

A doctor can help you develop a treatment plan to manage your symptoms and prevent complications. Early intervention and regular monitoring are key to maintaining your health and well-being.

By following this structured approach, the new sections will provide comprehensive information while maintaining the article’s engaging and informative style.

Treatment Options for Fibroids

Not all fibroids need treatment. If they aren’t causing symptoms, monitoring them with regular scans may be sufficient. However, if they’re causing pain, bleeding, or fertility problems, treatment options include targeting the blood flow to fibroids to shrink them.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

An interventional radiologist performs UAE by cutting off the blood supply to fibroids.

Other Options

Radiofrequency ablation is a procedure that uses sound waves to treat fibroids. UAE involves injecting small particles to block the blood supply to fibroids.

Medical Management

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They can cause a variety of symptoms, including heavy menstrual bleeding, pain, and pressure in the pelvic area. While some fibroids may not require treatment, others can be managed through various medical interventions. Medication can be used to manage symptoms caused by fibroids, and it is important to consult healthcare providers about the potential side effects and complications of these medications.

Medical management options include:

• Hormonal therapies (e.g., GnRH analogues) to shrink fibroids temporarily. These medications work by regulating hormone levels to reduce the size of fibroids and manage symptoms.

• The Mirena coil to manage heavy periods

• Non-hormonal medications to control bleeding and pain

Minimally Invasive Procedures

• Laparoscopic (keyhole) myomectomy: surgical removal of fibroids, preserving the uterus. This procedure involves making a few small incisions to insert surgical tools and a camera, contrasting it with the traditional method that requires a larger incision in the abdomen.

• Robotic-assisted myomectomy: offering even greater precision and quicker recovery. This procedure requires only small incisions, minimizing recovery time and potential complications.

• Hysteroscopic resection: removal of fibroids inside the uterine cavity using a small camera

At Happiher, Dr Kaur specialises in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgery, providing patients with shorter recovery times, less pain, and excellent surgical outcomes.

Other Options

Choosing the right treatment depends on your symptoms, future fertility plans, the size and location of the fibroids, and your overall health. Some fibroids require treatment due to significant symptoms or health risks, such as iron-deficiency anemia.

• Uterine artery embolisation (UAE): a non-surgical procedure performed by radiologists to shrink fibroids

• Hysterectomy: removal of the uterus, considered only for severe symptoms when childbearing is complete

Living with Fibroids

Fibroids can be frustrating, painful, and emotionally draining, especially when symptoms disrupt daily life or fertility. Managing fibroids is an important aspect of women's health, as it empowers female patients with relevant knowledge and updates from medical experts. But you don’t have to suffer in silence or settle for uncertainty.

At Happiher, we work with you to understand your unique needs and create a plan that puts your health and happiness first.

Why Choose Happiher for Fibroid Care?

If you’re looking for a fibroid specialist in London, Happiher offers:

• Rapid access to expert consultations

• Comprehensive diagnostic imaging

• Specialised minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgery

• Fertility-preserving surgical options

• Compassionate, woman-centred care at every stage

Fibroids, also known as uterine myomas, are non-cancerous growths in or around the uterus. Many women may be unaware of their presence due to a lack of symptoms, while a smaller percentage may face symptoms that could lead to complications affecting pregnancy or fertility.

Our clinics are conveniently located at Chelsea & Westminster, The Lister, and The Wellington Hospital.

Final Thoughts

Fibroids are common, but you are not just a statistic. Whether you are managing heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, or planning a future family, expert help is available — and it can make a world of difference.

At Happiher, we’re committed to providing outstanding care that helps you feel confident, informed, and supported.