Fibroids are not cancerous growths, and the majority of women with fibroids may suffer no fibroid symptoms and be unaware that they have them. In some cases, however, fibroids are responsible for severe symptoms, including pain, very heavy menstrual bleeding (flooding and clots), urinary problems, pressure on the bowel and bladder and abdominal swelling.

Signs and symptoms for Fibroids can depend on size, location, and the number of fibroids.

In terms of menstrual symptoms, many women experience flooding, which in extreme cases is so severe that they cannot leave home during their period. Prolonged periods are also common, and bleeding may be severe enough to lead to anaemia.

Pain can also be caused by the size of the fibroid – in some cases as large as a 4 or 5 month pregnancy. When this large uterus presses against nearby organs such as the bladder or lower intestine, it can lead to uncomfortable related symptoms such as constipation and frequent urination.

Fibroids can have an adverse affect on fertility (the ability to get pregnant) but predominantly due to where they are located in the uterus. So, for example, fibroids inside the cavity, can make it difficult for an embryo to implant and this may lead to miscarriage. Or it may be that they are producing hormones that stop implantation. Fibroids situated in or near the fallopian tubes may also present a problem, as they can compress the tubes, thus effectively blocking them.

If you would like to get help with Fibroids, learn more about Fibroid Symptoms or to speak to someone, please give us a call on 0203 312 7605 or email Gurwinder.Rayat@imperial.nhs.uk.