Fibroids are benign tumours that develop within the uterus. About 1 in 5 women develop fibroids during their childbearing years and half of all women will have fibroids before they are 50.
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Fibroids
What are the symptoms of fibroids?
- Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)
- Bleeding between periods
- Periods lasting longer than normal
- Pelvic cramping or pain with periods
- Sensation of fullness or pressure in lower abdomen
- Needing to urinate more often
- Pain during intercourse
Diagnosis
Fibroids often do not cause symptoms and are usually discovered during a routine gynaecological examination, diagnostic test or scan. To confirm diagnosis you may be asked to undergo:
- Ultrasound scan
- Transvaginal ultrasound
- Hysteroscopy
- Laparoscopy
- Biopsy
Treatment
Treatments vary depending on your age, general health, the type of fibroids, and if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant in the future. Some women may just need pelvic exams or ultrasounds every once in a while to monitor the fibroid growth.
Treatment options
- Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) help control heavy periods
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen for pain
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs) release the hormones to reduce heavy bleeding and pain
- Iron supplements treat anemia caused by heavy periods
- Short-term hormone therapy injections help to shrink the fibroids
Surgery options
- Hysteroscopy
- Uterine artery embolisation
- Myomectomy
- Hysterectomy
Wellwoman Clinic
The Wellwoman Clinic is a specialist centre offering assessment and treatment of gynaecological conditions. We treat women of all ages, prioritising patient needs and comfort throughout their treatment.
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Our Appointments Team have a dedicated and caring approach to finding you the earliest appointment possible with the best specialist.
If you are self-paying you don’t need a referral from your GP for a consultation. You can simply refer yourself* and book an appointment.
If you have health insurance (e.g. Bupa, Axa Health, Aviva), you will need to contact your insurer to get authorisation before any treatment, and in most cases you will also require a referral letter from your GP.
If you are not registered with a GP, we have an in-house private GP practice you can use. Alternatively, we can suggest the most appropriate course of action for you to take, given your location and individual circumstances.
*Please note – for investigations such as X-rays and MRIs, a referral will be required. However, we may be able to arrange this for you through our on-site private GP.
