Information about uterine fibroids
Minimally Invasive Therapy Unit & Endoscopy Training Centre
University Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Royal Free Hospital
Pond Street
Hampstead
London NW3 2QG, UK

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LATEST NEWS

A new website for gynaecologists interested in the surgical management of fibroids is now on line.

www.fibroidsurgery.org

Uterine fibroids

Clinical Evidence Information provided by the publishes of the British Medical Journal including leaflets, guidelines and references.

BBC Health Unbiased information from the BBC.

Patient UK Provides information you would expect your GP to give you.

NHS Choices with information about fibroids.

The Merck Manual A textbook style website with information about gynaecological disorders including uterine fibroids.

Disclaimer These web sites provide general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. We are not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content of these websites. We are not liable for the contents of any external internet sites listed, nor do we endorse any commercial product or service mentioned or advised on any of the sites. Always consult your own GP if you're in any way concerned about your health.

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Fibroids

Uterine leiomyomata, often referred to as fibroids, are tumours of the uterus (womb). They are very common and can be asymptomatic. Fibroids tend to be multiple and can be situated inside the cavity of the uterus, in the wall or outside. In some cases, they can grow to a very large size.No one knows why they develop, but it is well established that the female hormone oestrogen makes them enlarge; this is why fibroids are usually diagnosed when women are in their 30's and 40's, and why they shrink after the menopause.While not all women have symptoms, typical complaints associated with fibroids include heavy periods, irregular vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, pelvic mass, pressure symptoms and subfertility. Briefly, treatment is indicated if the fibroids are thought to be responsible for troublesome symptoms, or if they become large. If there are no symptoms or if the fibroids are small, there is no need for treatment. Although fibroids can become cancerous, the chance is so small that they are not routinely removed just because they are there.