Fibroids
Fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) growths in the uterus (womb). They are a common cause of infertility, miscarriage and pre-term labour. Fibroids are very common. At least 1 in 4 women develop one or more fibroids in their lifetime. They usually develop in women aged 30-50 years and can sometimes run in families. This is thought to be due to the higher levels of oestrogen that occur in heavier women.
Symptoms may include
- Heavy or more painful periods
- Miscarriage or infertility (depending on the size and position of the fibroid)
- Problems during pregnancy (early labour, risk of having a caesarean section)
- Diagnosis-Some fibroids can be felt on examining the abdomen if very large. An ultrasound scan is done to confirm the diagnosis
Treatment
Observation
Treatment with medication
Medication to improve symptoms
The following medicines are used to treat heavy periods whatever the cause, including heavy periods caused by fibroids. They may not work so well if your fibroids are large.
- Tranexamic acid- reduces bleeding during the period.
- The contraceptive pill may help you to have lighter periods and can often help with period pain too.
Medication to shrink the fibroids
Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) analogue, this is a hormone medicine that reduces the level of oestrogen in your body. Fibroids shrink when the level of oestrogen falls. This treatment is given for a maximum of three to six months.