Fibroids are non-cancerous growths of muscle and fibrous tissue in or around the womb (uterus). Many women with fibroids have no symptoms. Others have heavy or painful periods, a swollen tummy, frequent urination or difficulty getting pregnant. Fibroids are more common, appear earlier and are often larger in Black women, which is why they are such a common concern in Nigeria, Ghana and across Africa and the diaspora.
Common symptoms of fibroids
- Heavy periods, sometimes with clots, or periods lasting more than a week
- Painful periods and pelvic pain or pressure
- A swollen lower abdomen
- Needing to urinate often, or constipation, if fibroids press on the bladder or bowel
- Pain or discomfort during sex
- Tiredness, dizziness and breathlessness from anaemia caused by heavy bleeding
- Difficulty getting pregnant or repeated miscarriage, in some women
Types of fibroids
- Intramural: in the muscle wall of the womb. The most common type.
- Subserosal: on the outside of the womb. Can grow large and press on other organs.
- Submucosal: under the lining, bulging into the womb cavity. Most likely to cause heavy bleeding and fertility problems.
- Pedunculated: attached by a stalk, inside or outside the womb.
What causes fibroids?
The exact cause is not known, but fibroids are linked to oestrogen and progesterone, which is why they usually grow during the reproductive years and shrink after menopause. Risk is higher with Black ethnicity, a family history, obesity, and starting periods early.
How fibroids are diagnosed
A doctor may feel an enlarged womb during a pelvic examination. Ultrasound scan is the main test. MRI or hysteroscopy may be used to plan surgery. A full blood count checks for anaemia.
Treatment options
- No treatment: small fibroids without symptoms are often just monitored.
- Medicines for symptoms: tranexamic acid and anti-inflammatories reduce bleeding and pain; hormonal options such as the levonorgestrel intrauterine system or contraceptive pills can lighten periods; iron treats anaemia.
- Medicines to shrink fibroids: GnRH-based treatments can shrink fibroids before surgery or for a limited time.
- Myomectomy: surgery to remove fibroids while keeping the womb. Usually chosen by women who want children.
- Uterine artery embolisation: blocks the blood supply so fibroids shrink.
- Hysterectomy: removal of the womb. The only permanent cure, for women who do not want more children.
Can you get pregnant with fibroids?
Yes, many women with fibroids get pregnant and have healthy babies. Fibroids that distort the womb cavity, especially submucosal ones, are the most likely to affect fertility. In pregnancy, fibroids can cause pain, and are linked to a higher chance of miscarriage, preterm birth, abnormal baby position, caesarean birth and postpartum haemorrhage. Women with fibroids should have their antenatal care at a facility that can manage these risks.
Nursing care and patient education
- Ask about bleeding (pads per day, clots, flooding) and screen for anaemia.
- Explain options honestly, including that fibroids can come back after myomectomy.
- Warn against unproven “fibroid-melting” herbal products sold online and in markets.
- After myomectomy or hysterectomy: monitor for bleeding, pain, infection and urinary retention, encourage early mobilisation, and teach wound care and warning signs.
- Advise women whose myomectomy entered the womb cavity to discuss mode of birth for future pregnancies with their doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Can fibroids turn into cancer?
Fibroids are benign. A cancerous growth (leiomyosarcoma) is rare and is not thought to develop from an ordinary fibroid. Rapid growth after menopause should always be checked.
Can fibroids go away on their own?
They often shrink after menopause. Before menopause, they may stay the same, grow or occasionally shrink.
Which foods shrink fibroids?
No food has been proven to shrink fibroids. A healthy weight, a diet rich in fruit and vegetables, and treating anaemia can help overall health.
Related reading: Period pain and endometriosis guide · Anaemia in pregnancy · Post-operative nursing care checklist
Checked against NHS guidance on fibroids. Updated 5 November 2026. This guide is for education and does not replace advice from your doctor.