How are fibroids treated?

Generally, if fibroids aren't causing any problems they don't require treatment and they simply need to be monitored. If they are large or cause unwanted symptoms, there are a number of treatment options you can discuss with your GP or gynaecologist.

"The treatment of fibroids should depend on where the fibroid is, whether it is growing and if so, how rapidly, what the patient's symptoms are (if any), and whether she desires to conserve her fertility," says Graham.

The contraceptive pill may be prescribed to treat symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding.

Pressure symptoms caused by large fibroids may be relieved using a procedure known as uterine fibroid embolisation, which is performed under local anaesthetic. It involves an interventional radiologist threading a tube into the artery that supplies the fibroid with blood, and blocking it, which causes the fibroid to shrink.

If surgery is required, your gynaecologist may be able to remove the fibroids but leave your uterus in place. This procedure is called a myomectomy and it can be performed vaginally – using an operating telescope that is inserted into the uterus through the cervix – or via abdominal surgery, where the fibroid is removed through a keyhole or open incision in the lower abdomen.