Last updated on June 9, 2025
Many women will experience fibroids in the uterus during their reproductive years, but not all are aware of the symptoms or when to seek help. These non-cancerous growths can vary widely in size, location, and effect on your health. Left untreated, they can cause pain, heavy bleeding, and affect quality of life.
This article will help you understand what uterine fibroids are, the common symptoms, what causes them to grow, and when it’s time to see a doctor. We’ll also introduce a minimally invasive treatment option available at Vein Doctors Sydney, designed to help relieve symptoms and improve wellbeing.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) tumours that develop in or around the uterus. They’re made up of muscle and fibrous tissue and are also known as leiomyomas or myomas.
While they are quite common—especially among women aged 30 to 50—many women may not even know they have them unless symptoms appear or an ultrasound detects them during a routine check-up.
Types of Uterine Fibroids
The impact fibroids have on your body often depends on where they grow. There are four main types of uterine fibroids:
- Intramural fibroids – grow within the muscular wall of the uterus
- Subserosal fibroids – develop on the outside of the uterus
- Submucosal fibroids – grow just underneath the uterine lining and may protrude into the uterine cavity
- Pedunculated fibroids – attach to the uterus by a stalk-like growth
Each type may cause different symptoms or complications, depending on their size and location.
Some common uterine fibroid symptoms include pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination and heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
Common Uterine Fibroid Symptoms
Not all fibroids cause symptoms, but when they do, the effects can significantly impact daily life. Some of the most common uterine fibroid symptoms include:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Frequent urination
- Constipation or bloating
- Pain during intercourse
- Lower back pain
- A visibly enlarged abdomen
If you’re noticing any of these signs of uterine fibroids, it’s important to speak to a medical professional. Symptoms can worsen over time, especially if fibroids continue to grow.
What Causes Uterine Fibroids to Grow?
The exact cause of fibroids isn’t fully understood, but research shows they are closely linked to hormonal and genetic factors. Factors that may influence what causes uterine fibroids to grow include:
- Oestrogen and progesterone – fibroids tend to grow when these hormone levels are high (e.g., during pregnancy)
- Family history – having a mother or sister with fibroids increases your risk
- Obesity and a high-fat diet
- Early onset of menstruation
- Lack of exercise
Understanding these risk factors may help you and your doctor monitor changes and take early action when necessary.
When to See a Doctor
While many fibroids are harmless, you should see a doctor if you experience:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding that affects daily activities
- Persistent pelvic or back pain
- Changes in bladder or bowel habits
- Pain during sexual activity
- Difficulty conceiving or carrying a pregnancy
Early diagnosis not only helps relieve symptoms but can also prevent complications.
Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids
Treatment for uterine fibroids in the uterus depends on several factors, including their size, location, severity of symptoms, and whether fertility preservation is a priority. Some women may not need immediate intervention, while others benefit from medical or procedural treatment to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Conservative approaches may include:
- Hormonal therapy (e.g. GnRH agonists) to temporarily shrink fibroids and reduce bleeding
- Pain relief medications for cramping and discomfort
For more moderate to severe cases, treatment options may include:
- Surgical procedures, such as myomectomy or hysterectomy, depending on age and reproductive plans
- Minimally invasive interventions, like Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE)
At Vein Doctors Sydney, we offer Uterine Fibroid Embolisation as a safe, non-surgical alternative for women who want to avoid major surgery but still require effective symptom control.
What is Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE)?
UFE is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that works by cutting off the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink over time. The procedure is performed via a small incision in the groin or wrist, through which a catheter is guided into the uterine arteries.
Benefits of UFE include:
- No large incisions or general anaesthesia
- Shorter recovery time compared to surgery
- Relief from heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, and pain
- Preservation of the uterus
If you’re experiencing moderate to severe uterine fibroid symptoms, UFE may be an ideal option to consider—especially if you’re seeking a non-surgical solution with minimal downtime.
How to Book an Appointment
At Vein Doctors Sydney, we are committed to providing personalised and compassionate care for patients experiencing symptoms of uterine fibroids. For more information on our services or to schedule a consultation at our clinic, please contact our friendly staff by either calling us on (02) 9023 9970, via our online form or by sending us an email.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do uterine fibroids look like?
Uterine fibroids are usually round or oval in shape and can vary in size from as small as a pea to as large as a grapefruit. On imaging scans, they appear as well-defined, dense masses within or around the uterus.
Do uterine fibroids cause pain?
Yes, fibroids can cause pelvic or lower back pain, particularly if they are large or pressing against nearby organs. Submucosal and intramural fibroids may also cause cramping or pain during menstruation.
Are all fibroids dangerous?
Most fibroids are not dangerous and don’t require treatment unless they’re causing significant symptoms. However, they can grow and lead to complications like anaemia, fertility issues, or pressure on other organs if left unmanaged.
Can fibroids be treated without surgery?
Yes, non-surgical treatments such as hormonal therapy or minimally invasive procedures like Uterine Artery Embolisation (UAE) may be suitable alternatives, depending on your condition.
How are fibroids diagnosed?
Fibroids are typically diagnosed through a pelvic exam, ultrasound, or MRI. If symptoms suggest fibroids, your doctor may recommend imaging to assess their size, type, and location.
This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a prescription. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor.
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