What is a fibroid?

Myomas are benign muscle tumours in the uterus. They are also known medically as uterine fibroids. The growth of fibroids is stimulated by the sex hormone oestrogen. Around one in five women is affected. In the majority of those affected, the fibroids do not cause any symptoms. They usually appear between the ages of 35 and 50.

When the fibroids reach a certain size, they can cause symptoms such as increased menstrual bleeding, pain, constipation or an increased urge to urinate. Iron deficiency can develop as a result of the increased menstrual bleeding. If they are located in the cervix, they can also increase the risk of miscarriage or lead to complications during labour.

Uterine fibroids are often discovered by chance during a gynaecological check-up, as they often cause no symptoms. An ultrasound examination is carried out to precisely localise the fibroid and determine its size.

The treatment of fibroids depends on the symptoms, the number, size and location of the fibroids and the age of the women affected. In the case of younger women with symptoms caused by a fibroid, an attempt is always made to preserve the uterus during treatment. Smaller fibroids can be surgically removed or destroyed using high-energy ultrasound waves. Another non-surgical treatment option is myoma embolisation. In this procedure, the small blood vessels that supply the fibroid are sealed (embolised) using a catheter inserted via the inguinal artery.

In the case of large fibroids or multiple fibroid nodules (uterus myomatosus) and severe symptoms, surgical removal of the uterus is the main option. Especially if there is no longer any desire to have children. You can find out more about the surgical treatment options in the uterine surgery chapter.

As an alternative to surgical treatment, hormone therapy can be considered for women who are approaching the menopause. This consists of the administration of anti-oestrogens and progestogens.