In the majority (60 – 90%) of women with fibroids there are no symptoms. Many women can go through life having fibroids without being aware of them.

In women who do suffer, the type and severity of symptoms does not always match the severity of the disease. Symptoms depend on the type of fibroids that are present, see types of fibroids.

The most common symptoms of fibroids include:

Menstrual/Bleeding problems Bloated or Heavy Feeling Bowel and Bladder problems Pain

Menstrual/Bleeding problems – these can include some or all of the following:

• Very heavy menstrual bleeding – this can occur in up-to 30% of women. They may require frequent changing of sanitary wear (every hour). 
  
• Prolonged menstrual bleeding
  

Bloated or Heavy feeling – this results from the fibroid putting pressure on the other organs and tissues in the abdomen (tummy) and can include:

• A feeling of heaviness or fullness 
  
• A feeling of being bloated 
  
• Indigestion and wind (Colic)

Bowel and Bladder problems – these again result from pressure arising from the fibroid and can include:

• Difficulty in passing urine or 
  
• An increase in the need to pass urine 
  
• Constipation

Pain– is not a major symptom of fibroids but may include:

• Pain during menstruation (Period pain)
  
• Pain during intercourse (Sex)
  
• Low back pain

Very occasionally acute and severe pain can occur, but this is normally due to a fibroid breaking down.

In addition, infertility can occur in 5 – 10% of women with fibroids. However, in only 1 - 3% it is the sole (primary) cause of infertility.

Infertility tends to occur in women with submucosal fibroids – those, that grow into the womb. As a result the shape of the womb can be distorted or the womb can become blocked. This can prevent the egg being fertilised or the fertilised egg becoming attached to the wall of the womb.

Many women accept these symptoms as part of the menstrual cycle and do not like to bother the doctor. The symptoms described may also be related to other disorders. It is important to seek medical advice if you suffer from any of these symptoms and are concerned.

Diagnosis of uterine fibroids

An internal examination will usually identify the possibility of fibroids being present.

In order to confirm the diagnosis and identify the type, position and size of the fibroids a number of tests may be performed. These create a ‘picture’ of the inside of your abdomen (tummy). They include:

• X-Rays – using radiation 
  
• Ultrasound – using radio-waves 
  
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – using magnets and radio-waves

Occasionally it may be necessary to conduct a laparoscopy, which requires day surgery. This involves the insertion of a small camera device (a laparoscope) into the abdomen via a small cut near the navel.