How are fibroids managed and treated?
Written by:
Obstetrician - gynaecologist
Published: 03/04/2024
Edited by: Conor Lynch
In her latest online article, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Nanda Shetty delves into fibroids, explaining what they are, what causes them, and what could potentially occur if they are left untreated.
What are fibroids?
Fibroids are non-cancerous tumours that form around the uterine wall. Although they are benign, they can still nonetheless cause significant symptoms and complications for women.
What causes fibroids?
The exact cause of fibroids isn’t known, but several factors contribute to their development. These include:
Hormonal variations Genetics Insulin-like growth factor (IGF)
Risk factors include:
Pregnancy Age Family history Obesity Vitamin D deficiency
If fibroids are left untreated, what might happen?
If left untreated, fibroids can lead to various complications. The most common complications include severe pain and/or excessive bleeding, anaemia, urinary tract infections, and obstructed labour.
How are they diagnosed?
Ultrasound scans, a complete blood count, MRI scans, and a hysteroscopy are all used in the diagnostic process of fibroids.
How are fibroids managed and treated?
Treatment depends on the fibroid size, location, and severity. Medication is the first line of treatment, and in severe cases, procedures such as endometrial ablation, uterine artery embolisation, myomectomy, and a hysterectomy are all considered for the patient who has been diagnosed with fibroids.
If you have recently been diagnosed with fibroids, you can book a consultation with Dr Nanda Shetty today by visiting her Top Doctors profile.