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Heavy periods, painful menstrual cramps or a feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen can sometimes indicate uterine fibroids. Many women have fibroids without experiencing any symptoms, while others may notice changes in their menstrual cycle, frequent urination, lower back pain or difficulty becoming pregnant.
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. Their size, number and location determine whether they cause symptoms and what treatment may be appropriate. Some fibroids need only regular monitoring, while others may require medication, a minimally invasive procedure or surgery.
At Smt S R Mehta & Sir K P Cardiac Institute, Mumbai, patients can explore the hospital’s available medical services and seek guidance about appropriate care for their health concerns.
If you have been diagnosed with fibroids or are experiencing symptoms that affect your daily life, understanding the available options can help you make informed decisions with your gynaecologist.
Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are growths that develop from the muscular tissue of the uterus. They can vary from very small growths to large masses that change the shape or size of the uterus.
Fibroids are common during the reproductive years and are usually non-cancerous. Having a fibroid does not automatically mean you need treatment or surgery.
Doctors generally classify uterine fibroids according to where they develop:
Understanding the location of a fibroid is important because two fibroids of similar size can cause very different symptoms.
The most common uterine fibroid symptoms include heavy menstrual bleeding, painful periods, pelvic pressure, lower abdominal discomfort and frequent urination. However, many women have no noticeable symptoms and discover fibroids during a routine examination or ultrasound scan.
Watch for the following signs:
Fibroids can cause menstrual bleeding that is heavier or lasts longer than usual. Some women pass large blood clots or need to change sanitary products frequently.
Repeated heavy bleeding can lead to iron deficiency or anaemia, causing fatigue, weakness, dizziness and breathlessness. Because anaemia can put extra strain on the heart, persistent palpitations or breathlessness may also need a cardiology evaluation; read about the signs you may need a cardiologist. A clinical dietitian can also advise on iron-rich foods alongside medical treatment.
Larger fibroids may create a feeling of fullness, heaviness or pressure in the lower abdomen. Some women also experience menstrual cramps or persistent pelvic discomfort.
A fibroid pressing against the bladder can cause frequent urination, an urgent need to urinate or difficulty emptying the bladder completely.
Depending on its size and location, a fibroid may contribute to lower back discomfort or pressure in the pelvic region.
Large fibroids may press against nearby structures, including the bowel, potentially contributing to constipation or discomfort during bowel movements.
Some women experience pain or discomfort during sex, depending on the location of the fibroids and other underlying conditions.
Certain fibroids, particularly those that distort the uterine cavity, may affect fertility or increase the risk of some pregnancy complications. However, many women with fibroids become pregnant naturally and have healthy pregnancies.
These symptoms are not exclusive to fibroids. A gynaecological assessment is important to determine the underlying cause.
The exact cause of uterine fibroids is not fully understood. Research suggests that hormones, genetic changes and other biological factors may contribute to their development.
Factors associated with fibroids include:
Fibroids are not caused by poor hygiene, and their presence does not mean a woman has cancer. There is currently no guaranteed method to prevent all fibroids.
There is no single fibroid size that determines whether a fibroid is dangerous or requires surgery. Doctors consider its location, symptoms, growth pattern, effect on nearby organs and the patient’s reproductive plans.
A small fibroid located near the uterine cavity may contribute to heavy bleeding or fertility concerns, while a larger fibroid may cause few symptoms in another patient.
During an evaluation, a gynaecologist may consider:
For example, a fibroid measuring 30 mm (3 cm) is not automatically harmless, and a fibroid measuring 80 mm (8 cm) does not automatically require surgery. The clinical findings matter more than a measurement alone.
If your ultrasound report identifies a fibroid, discuss its exact location and size with your gynaecologist before deciding on treatment.
Uterine fibroid diagnosis usually begins with a discussion of your symptoms, menstrual history, medical history and physical examination.
Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following investigations.
Not every patient needs all these tests. The choice depends on the symptoms, ultrasound findings and clinical assessment.
The best treatment for uterine fibroids depends on symptoms, fibroid size and location, overall health, and whether you want to become pregnant in the future. There is no single treatment that is right for every patient.
If fibroids are not causing symptoms or other significant concerns, a doctor may recommend observation and follow-up rather than immediate treatment.
The frequency of follow-up depends on the patient’s clinical situation.
Medicines may help control certain symptoms, particularly heavy menstrual bleeding and pain. Depending on the individual case, options may include medicines to reduce bleeding, pain-relieving medicines or hormonal treatments.
Medication does not necessarily remove the fibroid itself. The choice of medicine depends on medical history, contraindications and pregnancy plans.
Myomectomy is a procedure that removes fibroids while preserving the uterus. It may be considered for women whose symptoms require surgery and who wish to retain their uterus.
Depending on the fibroid’s size, number and location, myomectomy may be performed through hysteroscopy, laparoscopy or open surgery.
Myomectomy may be suitable for some women planning a future pregnancy, but it does not guarantee improved fertility, and new fibroids can develop later.
Hysterectomy is an operation to remove the uterus. It is a definitive treatment for uterine fibroids because fibroids cannot recur in a uterus that has been removed.
It may be considered when symptoms are severe, other treatments are unsuitable or unsuccessful, and the patient does not wish to carry a future pregnancy.
After a hysterectomy, pregnancy is no longer possible. The benefits, risks and alternatives should be discussed carefully before deciding on surgery. If surgery is advised, you can check the hospital’s cashless facility and bed categories when planning your admission.
Depending on the available services and the individual case, other options may include uterine artery embolisation, which reduces the blood supply to fibroids, or hysteroscopic removal of selected fibroids.
These procedures have different benefits, risks and implications for future pregnancy. A specialist can help determine which options are appropriate.
Many women with uterine fibroids become pregnant naturally. However, certain fibroids may affect fertility or pregnancy, particularly when they distort the uterine cavity.
Potential concerns depend on the fibroid’s location, size and number. Some fibroids may be associated with pregnancy complications, but the presence of a fibroid does not automatically mean a pregnancy will be difficult.
If you are planning a pregnancy, tell your gynaecologist before choosing a treatment. Removing every fibroid is not necessary, and surgery itself can carry risks, including scar tissue formation.
Your doctor can assess whether monitoring, treatment or surgery is appropriate for your individual circumstances.
Arrange a medical consultation if you experience:
Seek urgent medical attention for very heavy bleeding accompanied by fainting, severe dizziness, breathlessness or marked weakness. Sudden severe pelvic pain also requires prompt evaluation.
At Smt S R Mehta & Sir K P Cardiac Institute, Mumbai, patients can enquire about available medical services and the appropriate next steps for their concerns. If you are considering the upcoming gynaecology surgical camp, confirm the available consultations, eligibility, date and registration process directly with the hospital.
Understand your options with a specialist. Early evaluation can help you choose the right next step.
Early signs may include heavy periods, painful menstruation, pelvic pressure or frequent urination. Some women have no symptoms and discover fibroids during an ultrasound scan.
Uterine fibroids are benign, meaning non-cancerous. A healthcare professional should evaluate unusual symptoms or concerning scan findings.
Some fibroids may shrink naturally, particularly after menopause. Others can be monitored or managed with medication, depending on symptoms and clinical findings. Surgery is not required for every fibroid.
There is no universal size threshold for surgery. Doctors consider the location, symptoms, effect on nearby organs, reproductive plans and response to other treatments.
Yes. Uterine fibroids can cause heavy or prolonged periods, particularly depending on their location. Persistent heavy bleeding should be evaluated because it can lead to anaemia.
Yes. Many women with fibroids become pregnant naturally. The effect on fertility depends on the location and characteristics of the fibroids and other individual factors.
Uterine fibroids are common, non-cancerous growths that can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure and urinary symptoms. Some women require no treatment, while others may benefit from medication, a procedure or surgery.
The most important step is to understand the fibroid’s location, size and effect on your health rather than deciding on treatment based on size alone. Early evaluation can help you understand your options and make an informed decision about your care.
For information about available medical services, contact Smt S R Mehta & Sir K P Cardiac Institute, Mumbai.
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