Uterine Fibroids
Consultant Gynaecologist Mr Dale Ojutiku provides expert assessment and personalised care for women experiencing symptoms of uterine fibroids. Below is an overview to help you better understand this common condition and when to seek support.
What are uterine fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop in or around the womb (uterus). They are made of muscle and connective tissue and vary in size, shape and location. Many fibroids are small and cause no symptoms, often being discovered by chance.
Fibroids can occur in different areas of the uterus:
- Under the womb lining (submucosal)
- Within the uterine wall (intramural)
- On the outer surface (subserosal)
- In the cervix
- In surrounding connective tissue (intraligamentary)
How can fibroids affect health?
Fibroids are very common, affecting around 40–80% of women. Most cause no problems, but some can lead to symptoms, particularly between ages 30 and 50.
Common symptoms include:
- Heavy or prolonged periods – may lead to anaemia, causing fatigue and paleness
- Painful periods – sometimes severe, especially with “pedunculated” fibroids
- Abdominal pressure or pain – larger fibroids can press on the bladder or bowel, causing frequent urination, constipation or back pain
What causes fibroids?
The exact cause is unknown, but hormones (oestrogen and progesterone) and genetics are thought to play a role. Fibroids typically grow before menopause and often shrink afterwards.
They are more common in:
- Black women
- Women who have never been pregnant
- Those with a family history
- Women who are overweight
They are less common in women who have had several children or used contraceptive pills long-term.
Will fibroids always cause problems?
Not necessarily. Fibroids grow at different rates—some stay the same, others grow larger, and some symptoms may improve over time. After menopause, fibroids usually shrink and symptoms often resolve.
Can fibroids affect fertility or pregnancy?
Most women with fibroids can still conceive. Only about 1–2% of infertility cases are linked to fibroids.
Fibroids under the womb lining are more likely to affect fertility. Most fibroids do not cause pregnancy complications, although large or multiple fibroids may increase risks such as miscarriage or the need for a caesarean section.
Can fibroids affect the bladder?
In rare cases, large fibroids can press on the urinary system, making it difficult to empty the bladder or blocking urine flow. This requires urgent medical attention.
Diagnosis and treatment
Fibroids are often found during ultrasound scans or routine examinations. MRI scans may be used for further assessment.
Treatment is usually only needed if symptoms occur. Goals include reducing bleeding, relieving pain and preserving fertility.
Options include:
- Hormonal treatments to control bleeding or shrink fibroids
- Surgery to remove fibroids or the uterus
- Uterine fibroid embolisation to cut off blood supply
- Minimally invasive procedures such as focused ultrasound or radiofrequency ablation
Pain relief (e.g. ibuprofen) may help symptoms, but alternative therapies lack strong evidence.
Book a consultation with Mr Dale Ojutiku
Book a consultation
If you are experiencing symptoms of fibroids or would like reassurance, booking an appointment with Mr Dale Ojutiku can help you understand your options and access expert care tailored to you.
You can book directly by clicking here
References.
National Library of Medicine
- National Center for Biotechnology Information
June 24, 2025
© IQWiG (Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care)
- Cleveland Clinic 2023
Medically reviewed by Mr Dale Ojutiku - Written by Joel Roskin - Updated on May 5, 2026
