This page summarises publicly available NHS information for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or a diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
What is fibroids?
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or around the womb. They're very common — up to 1 in 3 women get them at some point. Many fibroids cause no symptoms, but larger ones can cause heavy or painful periods, pelvic pain, frequent urination, and difficulty conceiving. Treatment depends on size, location, and symptoms — options range from medication to surgery.
When NHS resources suggest seeing a GP
- You have very heavy periods, with clots or flooding.
- You have pelvic pain or pressure that doesn't settle.
- You need to pee often or urgently.
- You have pain during sex.
- You're struggling to conceive or have had miscarriages.
- Your abdomen feels swollen or firm.
Self-care information from NHS
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain and heavy periods.
- Try a hot water bottle on the lower abdomen for cramps.
- Consider hormonal contraceptives (like the coil) to reduce heavy bleeding — discuss with a GP.
- Eat iron-rich foods if heavy periods are causing anaemia.
- Track symptoms in a diary to share with your GP.
- Maintain a healthy weight — high body weight is linked to more severe fibroid symptoms.
Common questions
Are fibroids cancerous?
No — fibroids are non-cancerous (benign) growths. Cancerous growths in the womb are very rare and behave differently. A scan can confirm fibroids and rule out other causes of symptoms.
Do fibroids affect fertility?
Most fibroids don't affect fertility, but large or submucosal (inside the womb cavity) fibroids can sometimes make it harder to conceive or carry a pregnancy. If you're trying for a baby, a gynaecologist can advise whether treatment is needed.
What treatments are available for fibroids?
Options include medication (hormonal coil, tranexamic acid), procedures that shrink fibroids (uterine artery embolisation, MRI-guided ultrasound), and surgery (myomectomy to remove fibroids or hysterectomy to remove the womb). Choice depends on symptoms and fertility wishes.
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This page is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your individual situation. NorMed organises publicly available NHS information and is not affiliated with the NHS.