Fibroids: your questions answered

Top Doctors recently had the pleasure of speaking with highly revered consultant gynaecologist, Mr Mahantesh Karoshi, with the focus of the conversation being all about fibroids.

Here, in our latest article, Mr Mahantesh reveals when fibroids typically grow in women, and how often women suffering from the presence of fibroids require imaging scans.

What are fibroids and what causes them?

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths of the womb. The exact causes remain unknown, but certain genetic groups are more prone than others. Patients of an Afro-Caribbean descent are at a higher risk of developing fibroids. 

How dangerous are they if left untreated?

Not all women with fibroids require treatment. They can be left untreated. Fibroids only require treatment in the following scenarios: 

• if they are protruding into the cavity of the womb
• if they cause discomfort and pain
• if they are affecting the liver and/or kidneys

In which direction do fibroids generlly grow?

Fibroids tend to grow randomly in the uterus, typically inside the muscle of the uterus. They can also protrude into the cavity of the womb, or may sometimes become buried in the uterus' muscle. 

At what rate do fibroids tend to grow in women?

In all honesty, no one knows at what rate fibroids grow, but they most often tend to grow during the reproductive years (between the ages of 15 to 45 years of age), especially so in the 20-35 age group. It is very rare for fibroids to appear in a woman in her 50’s for the first time. Even if they are diagnosed at the age of 50, they probably were there for some time, without ever being diagnosed.

Can the removal of fibroids improve a woman’s overall fertility rate?

The size of the fibroid certainly matters here. Generally speaking, a woman’s overall fertility rate will improve once her fibroids have been removed.

How often do women suffering from fibroids require imaging scans?

Women who have been diagnosed with fibroids typically require imaging studies such as an ultrasound or MRI scan every six months to a year, depending on the severity of the fibroids.

How exactly are fibroids treated?

Fibroids are treated in a variety of different ways, depending on the size, location, and the overall goal of the treatment. The most common treatment options are hysteroscopic assessment and resection, a myomectomy procedure, a uterine artery embolisation, or a hysterectomy. 

Mr Mahantesh Karoshi is a highly qualified, experienced, and skilled London-based consultant gynaecologist. If you are concerned about the presence of fibroids, you can book an appointment with Mr Karoshi today by visiting his Top Doctors profile.