Fibroids
Last Updated: July 3, 2026
Key Points
- Non-cancerous growths in the womb
- Often cause no symptoms
- Mainly affect women before menopause
- Treatment depends on symptoms
Overview
Fibroids are common, non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the womb. They are also known as uterine fibroids or leiomyomas. While many women have fibroids, they often don't cause any problems and you might not even know you have them. They are most common in women who have not yet reached menopause. The exact cause of fibroids is unknown, but certain factors can increase your risk. If symptoms do occur, they can range from heavy periods to pain and issues with bladder or bowel function. Treatment is not always necessary, especially if fibroids are not causing discomfort. However, if symptoms are bothersome, options include medication to manage pain and bleeding, or various surgical and non-surgical procedures to remove or shrink the fibroids. Your doctor will discuss the best approach based on your specific situation.
Signs and Symptoms
- Heavy or painful periods
- Stomach pain
- Lower back pain
- Frequent or urgent need to pee
- Difficulty controlling urination
- Bloating or constipation
- Pain during bowel movements
- Pain or discomfort during sex
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Things That Increase the Risk
- Not yet reached menopause
- Never had a full-term pregnancy
- Being overweight or obese
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Black or Asian background
- Close relative with fibroids
Diagnosis
- Doctor asks about symptoms
- Physical examination of tummy and pelvic area
- Internal vaginal exam
- Referral for ultrasound scan
- Sometimes found during other medical scans
Treatment & Management
- Painkillers (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
- Medication for heavy bleeding (e.g., tranexamic acid, combined pill)
- Surgery to remove fibroids (myomectomy)
- Surgery to remove the womb (hysterectomy)
- Heat procedure to remove womb lining (endometrial ablation)
- Uterine artery embolization (UAE) to block blood supply
Prevention
- Maintain a healthy body weight
- Manage existing high blood pressure
- Control diabetes effectively
- Regular gynecological check-ups
- Discuss any new symptoms with a doctor
Available Treatments
Explore our range of treatment options for Fibroids:
Surgical Options
Learn about surgical procedures available for Fibroids:
Contents
Quick Info
Affects
Women before menopause
Prevalence
Common
Diagnosis
Ultrasound scan
Treatment
Medication or surgery
Medically Reviewed
Dr. Vijay Bhat
Orthopedic Surgeon · Apollo Hospitals, Chennai
Reviewed on July 3, 2026
Need Professional Help?
Consult with our healthcare professionals to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.