Fibroids

Fibroids are growths that form inside the uterus (womb). Around four in 10 people over the age of 40 years will have fibroids.

It is not known why fibroids develop, but it is thought that the sex hormones, oestrogen and progesterone, play key roles.

Often, fibroids do not cause any problems, but are occasionally associated with infertility, miscarriage and premature labour. Other problems can include heavy, long and painful periods.

Treatment depends on the size, number and location of the fibroids, but can include medication, procedures done under local anaesthetic, ultrasound procedures and surgery.

Fibroids rarely become cancerous.