Periods so heavy that you plan your day around them. A heavy, full feeling in the lower belly. Needing to pass urine more often than before. Feeling tired all the time because of low haemoglobin.
These can all be signs of uterine fibroids, one of the most common gynaecological conditions in women between 30 and 50. Many women in Kolkata live with fibroids for years without knowing it.
Fibroids are almost always non-cancerous, and many never need treatment. When they do cause problems, there are effective options, including minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery. This guide from the gynaecology team at BK Aditya Multispeciality Hospital explains what you need to know.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths of muscle tissue in or on the uterus (womb). They can be as small as a seed or grow larger than an orange. A woman may have one fibroid or several.
Fibroids are grouped by where they grow:
- Intramural fibroids grow within the muscle wall of the uterus
- Submucosal fibroids grow into the inner cavity of the uterus and often cause heavy bleeding
- Subserosal fibroids grow on the outer surface of the uterus and may press on nearby organs
- Pedunculated fibroids hang from the uterus on a thin stalk
Common Symptoms of Fibroids
Many women with fibroids have no symptoms at all. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Heavy or prolonged periods, sometimes with clots
- Bleeding between periods
- Tiredness, weakness or breathlessness from anaemia
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- A swollen or enlarged lower abdomen
- Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
- Constipation or lower back pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Difficulty getting pregnant, in some cases
What Causes Fibroids?
The exact cause is not known, but several factors play a role:
- Hormones: oestrogen and progesterone encourage fibroid growth, which is why fibroids often shrink after menopause
- Family history: fibroids often run in families
- Age: they are most common in the 30s and 40s
- Obesity and vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk
How Are Fibroids Diagnosed?
Fibroids are often found during a routine pelvic examination or ultrasound. Your gynaecologist may advise:
- Pelvic ultrasound: the most common and simple test to see the size and position of fibroids
- Blood tests, such as haemoglobin, to check for anaemia
- MRI, in some cases, for detailed surgical planning
- Hysteroscopy, a look inside the uterus with a thin camera, for fibroids inside the cavity
Fibroid Treatment Options
Treatment depends on your symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, your age and whether you want to have children in the future.
1. Watchful waiting
Small fibroids that cause no symptoms often need only regular check-ups and ultrasounds to monitor them.
2. Medicines
Medicines can control heavy bleeding and pain, correct anaemia and, in some cases, shrink fibroids for a period of time. They are often used to relieve symptoms or to prepare for surgery.
3. Laparoscopic myomectomy
Myomectomy is surgery to remove the fibroids while keeping the uterus. It is often the preferred option for women who want to become pregnant in the future.
In laparoscopic (keyhole) myomectomy, the surgeon works through a few small cuts using a camera. Compared with open surgery, this usually means:
- Less pain after surgery
- Smaller scars
- A shorter hospital stay
- A faster return to daily activities
4. Hysteroscopic removal
Fibroids growing inside the uterine cavity can often be removed through the vagina using a hysteroscope, with no cuts on the abdomen.
5. Hysterectomy
Removing the uterus is the only permanent cure for fibroids. It may be considered for women with large or many fibroids who have completed their family and whose symptoms have not improved with other treatment. Today, this too can often be done laparoscopically.
Fibroids and Pregnancy
Most women with fibroids have healthy pregnancies. However, depending on their size and position, fibroids can sometimes affect fertility or cause problems during pregnancy.
If you have fibroids and are planning a pregnancy, speak to your gynaecologist early. A clear plan, and treatment if needed, gives you the best chance of a smooth pregnancy.
When Should You See a Gynaecologist?
Book a consultation if you notice:
- Periods that are very heavy, last more than 7 days or contain large clots
- Bleeding between periods or after menopause
- Ongoing pelvic pain or pressure
- Tiredness or breathlessness that may point to anaemia
- A visible swelling of the lower abdomen
- Difficulty conceiving
Fibroid Care at BK Aditya Multispeciality Hospital
Fibroid care at BK Aditya is led by Dr. Ajita Mishra Digga (MBBS, MS Obstetrics & Gynaecology, FMAS, AMASI), Head of Gynaecology. We offer:
- Ultrasound diagnosis and monitoring under one roof
- Medical management for heavy bleeding and anaemia
- Laparoscopic myomectomy and laparoscopic surgery for ovarian cysts and endometriosis
- Fertility-focused care for women planning pregnancy
- High-risk pregnancy care
We explain every option clearly, so you can choose the treatment that fits your life and your plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are fibroids cancerous?
Almost never. Fibroids are benign growths. Cancer arising in a fibroid is extremely rare.
Can fibroids go away on their own?
Small fibroids may stay the same size or shrink, especially after menopause when hormone levels fall. Fibroids that cause symptoms usually need treatment.
Can I get pregnant after fibroid removal?
Yes. Myomectomy removes the fibroids and keeps the uterus, and many women conceive afterwards. Your gynaecologist will advise how long to wait before trying.
Is laparoscopic myomectomy painful?
You will feel some discomfort after surgery, but it is usually much less than with open surgery and is well controlled with medicines. Most women return to light activities within a week or two.
Do fibroids come back after surgery?
New fibroids can grow after myomectomy, especially in younger women. Regular follow-up helps detect and manage them early.
Take Control of Your Health
Heavy periods and pelvic discomfort are not something you simply have to put up with. A simple ultrasound can tell you what is going on and what your options are.
To book a consultation with our gynaecology team, call +91 82769 79994 or visit BK Aditya Multispeciality Hospital, 2nd Floor, Satgachi Rd, Notun Pally, Satgachi, Kamardanga, Kolkata 700074.
This article is for general information and does not replace a consultation with your doctor.