Fibroids

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in and around the womb (uterus). The growths are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue. These vary in size. They are sometimes known as uterine myomas and leiomyomas.

Many women are unaware they have fibroids, because they do not have any symptoms. However, women who do have symptoms may experience heavy and/or

painful periods. Tummy pain, lower back pain. Constipation, frequent need to urinate. Pain and discomfort during sex. In rare cases complications caused by fibroids can affect pregnancy or cause infertility.

The cause of fibroids is unknown, but they may be linked to the hormone oestrogen. Fibroids usually develop during a women’s reproductive years from around 16 to 50 years old. Fibroids tend to shrink when oestrogen levels are lower after the menopause when a woman’s periods have stopped.

Around 2 in 3 women develop at least 1 fibroid at some point in their life. These most often occur during the ages of 30-50.