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Uterine Fibroids
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or on the uterus. Many cause no trouble at all, while others lead to heavy periods, pain or pressure symptoms.
Causes & risk factors
- Hormones oestrogen and progesterone encourage growth
- Family history of fibroids
- More common with age until menopause
- More common in women who have not had children
- Exact trigger is unknown
Common symptoms
- Heavy or prolonged periods
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Frequent urination
- Lower back pain
- Constipation
- A swollen or bloated lower abdomen
Tests & diagnosis
- Pelvic ultrasound
- MRI scan
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Iron studies / ferritin
Treatment & management
- Small, symptom-free fibroids often just need monitoring
- Medicines to control heavy bleeding and pain
- Hormone treatments to shrink fibroids temporarily
- Procedures to remove fibroids or block their blood supply
- Surgery (removal of fibroids or, rarely, the uterus) for severe cases
When to see a doctor urgently
- Very heavy periods leaving you tired or breathless
- Persistent pelvic pain or pressure
- A noticeably swelling abdomen
- Difficulty conceiving with known fibroids
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about uterine fibroids. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Are fibroids cancer?
No. Fibroids are almost always benign (non-cancerous). Cancerous change is very rare, but new rapid growth should always be checked.
Do fibroids go away after menopause?
Often they shrink after menopause because oestrogen levels fall, and symptoms may ease. Large fibroids can still cause pressure symptoms, so review as needed.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.