What should you know?
Fibroids are benign growths arising from the muscle of the uterus. They may be single or multiple and can project toward the uterine cavity, remain within the wall or grow outward.
Symptoms are influenced by location as well as size. A small submucosal fibroid may cause substantial bleeding, while a larger outward-growing fibroid can remain silent.
Common symptoms and signs
- Heavy or prolonged periods and iron-deficiency anemia
- Pelvic pressure, pain or increasing abdominal size
- Frequent urination or constipation
- Fertility or pregnancy-related difficulties in some cases
Diagnosis and the role of ultrasound
Ultrasound documents the number, three-dimensional size and exact location of fibroids and whether they distort the endometrial cavity. Doppler, saline sonography or MRI may be added for specific questions.
- Number and measurements
- Submucosal, intramural or subserosal location
- Cavity distortion
- Change from previous imaging
Treatment and next steps
Asymptomatic fibroids often need observation only. Medical treatment can reduce bleeding; selected patients may consider myomectomy, embolization or another procedure after specialist review.
When is urgent care needed?
- Very heavy bleeding with weakness, palpitations or breathlessness
- Sudden severe pelvic pain
- Pain, bleeding or contractions during pregnancy