What can I do if I have uterine fibroids?

Fibroids are benign growths in the muscle of the womb, and are extremely common. In some studies 40% of women have them.

In the vast majority of cases they present no problem at all. But in some they can be the cause of heavy periods, infertility, repeated miscarriages, or repeated IVF failures. These symptoms depend on the number, size and exact location of the fibroids. Detailed assessment usually requires specialist investigation including ultrasound scanning and sometimes day surgery.

The decision to remove fibroids (usually by keyhole surgery, but sometimes by open surgery) should also be very carefully weighed up with all other fertility factors (including age, ovarian reserve, and sperm quality).