Frequently Asked Questions: Everything You Need to Know About Fibroids

Being diagnosed with fibroids can feel overwhelming. You may have noticed changes in your body, such as unusual bleeding, bloating, or pelvic pain, and suddenly you’re facing medical terms and treatment options you don’t fully understand. 

At  McKeown Medical, we believe in helping you make sense of it all with clear, expert-led information and compassionate care. In this article, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about  fibroids  to help you feel more informed and confident about your next steps. 

Fibroids (also called uterine fibroids or leiomyomas) are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They vary in size, from as small as a seed to as large as a melon, and can appear as a single growth or in clusters.

Fibroids are incredibly common. It’s estimated that around 2 in 3 women will develop at least one fibroid during their lifetime. They typically affect people in their 30s and 40s, but can occur at any age.

Many fibroids don’t cause any symptoms and are only discovered during routine scans or examinations. However, others can lead to significant discomfort and disruption in daily life.

The symptoms of fibroids depend on their size, number, and location within the uterus. Some of the most common include:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Bloating or a sensation of fullness in the lower abdomen
• Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
• Pain during intercourse
• Lower back pain
• Fertility issues or complications during pregnancy

Not everyone with fibroids experiences symptoms, but if you’re noticing any of the above, it’s worth seeking medical advice. At McKeown Medical, our expert team can help you get the answers you need through an initial consultation.

Fibroids don’t cause weight gain directly, but they can lead to abdominal bloating or a noticeable bulge in the lower stomach. This is especially true when fibroids are large or numerous. For some, this change can mimic the appearance of weight gain even if body fat hasn’t increased.

No, fibroids are not cancerous. They are benign tumours, meaning they do not spread to other parts of the body. In extremely rare cases, a cancerous growth called a leiomyosarcoma can develop in the uterus, but this is not thought to arise from a fibroid.

Importantly, having fibroids does not increase your risk of uterine cancer.

If you experience symptoms such as soaking through sanitary products frequently, feeling unusually fatigued, or suffering from shortness of breath during your period, it may be time to consult a healthcare professional. Early intervention can help prevent complications and improve your quality of life.

Still, it’s vital to monitor any changes in your symptoms and undergo regular checkups, especially if you’re postmenopausal or experiencing unusual bleeding.

The exact cause of fibroids isn’t fully understood, but several factors are known to play a role:

• Hormones  – Oestrogen and progesterone appear to stimulate fibroid growth, which is why they often shrink after menopause.
• Genetics  – A family history of fibroids can increase your risk.
• Ethnicity  – Fibroids are more common and often more severe in Black women.
• Lifestyle factors  – Obesity, high blood pressure, and a diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase risk.

Fibroids can grow slowly or rapidly, or they may remain the same size for years.

At McKeown Medical, we offer a range of evidence-based treatments tailored to your symptoms, lifestyle, and personal preferences. These include:

Medication

• Used to manage symptoms like heavy bleeding or pain.
• Hormonal treatments (e.g., the pill, hormonal IUDs) can help regulate periods.
• Not a permanent solution for fibroid removal.

Minimally invasive surgery

• MyoSure  – A gentle hysteroscopic procedure used to remove fibroids from the uterine cavity. Often done under local anaesthetic with or without sedation.
• Myomectomy  – Removes fibroids while preserving the uterus; ideal for those hoping to maintain fertility.

Hysterectomy

• Complete removal of the uterus.
• A permanent solution for fibroids, but only recommended when other treatments aren’t suitable or desired. Whilst we do not offer this in-house, if this is the most appropriate treatment for you, then we will refer you.

We understand that every woman’s situation is unique, which is why we take a personalised approach to treatment planning.

Fibroids are common, but they don’t have to be confusing or debilitating. With the right care, they can be managed or removed effectively, giving you back control over your health and quality of life.

At McKeown Medical, our gynaecology service is led by Dr. Iain Martin, a highly experienced consultant specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of fibroids. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or considering your treatment options, we’re here to help you find the path that’s right for you.

Book a consultation to speak with one of our experts and explore your treatment options today.