Lets discuss FIBROIDS. We discuss the important details of fibroids, causes(not-known), symptoms/signs, investigations and potential treatment options. ALWAYS consult with your GP and/or your gynecologist for your specific treatment options. Every woman is different!
Definition
Benign (non-cancerous) lumps that grow in or on the wall of the womb (uterus). Made of muscle and fibrous tissue. They vary in size and often cause no problems, but may lead to heavy periods, pain or pressure symptoms.
Prevalence
| UK | Up to 70% in white women and ~80% in Black/Caribbean women by age 50 (higher in African descent; NICE/RCOG note ethnic disparities). |
| USA | 70% in white women, >80% in African American women by age 50 (ACOG/NICHD data). |
| Asia & Africa | Asia: Lower rates, e.g., ~22% in East/South Asian women (trends rising in South Asia per global studies). Africa: Highest incidence trends, with early onset and severity in Black African women (up to 80%+; WHO regional data highlights burden in low-resource settings) |
Causes / Risk factors
Exact cause unknown. Linked to: oestrogen & progesterone; age (30–50y); Black/Afro-Caribbean ancestry; family history; obesity; early menarche; nulliparity. Protective: pregnancy, multiple births.
Symptoms & Signs
• Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), prolonged periods (≈1/3 of symptomatic women).
• Pelvic pain, fullness, backache.
• Bladder or bowel pressure (frequency, constipation).
• Fertility problems or pregnancy complications.
• Large fibroids: abdominal swelling or palpable mass.
Red flags: sudden severe abdominal pain with fever, severe anaemia symptoms.
Investigations
1. History & pelvic examination.
2. First-line imaging: pelvic ultrasound (transvaginal ± transabdominal).
3. MRI for complex/uncertain cases or surgical planning.
4. Blood tests: FBC (anaemia), pregnancy test, others as indicated.
5. If heavy bleeding: follow NICE HMB pathway to exclude other causes.
Treatment Options
Conservative / Medical
• Watchful waiting if asymptomatic.
• Tranexamic acid, NSAIDs, hormonal options (COCP, progestogens, LNG-IUS).
• GnRH analogues / oral antagonists (e.g., linzagolix) for bleeding/fibroid shrinkage.
Procedural / Surgical
• Uterine artery embolisation (UAE).
• Myomectomy (uterus-preserving, fertility option).
• Hysterectomy (definitive).
• Other: MRI-guided focused ultrasound (specialist centres).
Practical Points
If periods are much heavier, or you develop pelvic pressure, urinary symptoms or anaemia, see your GP. Many effective medical and uterus-sparing treatments exist — choice depends on symptoms and fertility wishes.
Remember, ALWAYS consult with your GP and/or your gynecologist for your specific treatment options. Every woman is different!
BW,
Every Day Woman Team
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