Fibroids

What is a fibroid?

A fibroid is a benign tumour in the wall of the uterus. Roughly one in every 5 to 10 women between the ages of 35 and 55 has fibroids. There are often several fibroids. They consist of smooth muscle fibres, which grow under the influence of the female hormones (oestrogens).
During the menopausal transition, the production of hormones by the ovaries gradually decreases. After the menopause (the time after a woman’s last period), fibroids stop growing and then shrink. A malignant tumour developing from fibroids is very rare.

How are fibroids detected?

Fibroids can be felt during a gynaecological examination. In addition, ultrasound can locate them better and measure them precisely.
When there is uncertainty, a hysteroscopy (viewing the inside of the uterine cavity) or a laparoscopy can be done to confirm them. They can also be removed at the same time.
Fibroids can form in different parts of the uterus and grow within its wall, towards its cavity or towards the abdomen.

Treatment

Small fibroids that cause no symptoms and do not make conception difficult are monitored by the gynaecologist with a gynaecological examination and ultrasound every 6 to 12 months. Fibroids that cause pain, bleeding or difficulty conceiving are removed by laparoscopy and/or hysteroscopy.