The NHS has issued a warning to anyone who is experiencing stomach pain. In a new post on its website, the health service urges patients to speak to their GP if they have tummy pain
The NHS has issued a warning about a common condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, yet it’s likely something many people know little about. The health service stated on their website that if you’re experiencing abdominal pain along with other symptoms, you should consult your GP about fibroids.
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that form in or around the womb (uterus). Composed of muscle and fibrous tissue, these growths vary in size and are sometimes referred to as uterine myomas or leiomyomas.
According to the NHS site: “Many women are unaware they have fibroids because they do not have any symptoms.” While some women may not exhibit any signs, others do show symptoms. Women who do experience symptoms may have:
- heavy periods or painful periods
- tummy (abdominal) pain
- lower back pain
- a frequent need to urinate
- constipation
- pain or discomfort during sex
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What causes fibroids and what types are there?
Health experts admit that they are uncertain of the exact cause. However, links have been made to the hormone oestrogen – the female reproductive hormone produced by the ovaries (the female reproductive organs).
The main types of fibroids include:.
In some instances, subserosal or submucosal fibroids are connected to the womb with a slender stalk of tissue. These are known as pedunculated fibroids.
Do I need to see a GP?
Since fibroids can often cause no symptoms, they’re frequently diagnosed by chance during a routine gynaecological examination, test or scan. However, the NHS advises booking an appointment with your GP if you have symptoms of fibroids so they can investigate possible causes.
If your GP suspects you have fibroids, they’ll usually refer you for an ultrasound scan to confirm the diagnosis. While most women with fibroids don’t experience any symptoms, in rare cases, they can cause complications that affect pregnancy or lead to infertility.
The risk of complications depends on factors like the position and size of the fibroids, which can range from as small as a pea to as large as a melon and can grow anywhere in the womb.
When fibroids are suspected, GPs typically carry out a pelvic examination to look for noticeable signs. They may also refer you to a hospital for further tests to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other potential causes of your symptoms.
If treatment is needed for your fibroids, your GP might prescribe medication to ease your symptoms. But if these drugs don’t work, you may need to see a gynaecologist for more advanced treatments or surgery.
