Uterine fibroids

A fibroid is a benign lump of muscle and connective tissue in or on the uterus. Many fibroids cause no symptoms; others cause heavy bleeding, pain, pressure or fertility problems. Location, size, anaemia and plans for children determine whether waiting, medicines, embolisation or surgery is appropriate.

• Heavy, prolonged or more frequent periods, sometimes with clots and leaking through menstrual protection.
• Anaemia with tiredness, dizziness, palpitations, pallor or breathlessness.
• For several cycles, record how much and how long you bleed, how often you change menstrual products, clots, pain and activities missed.
• Eat iron-rich foods, but do not start long-term iron supplementation without assessment of anaemia and the cause of bleeding.
• Make an appointment for periods that limit activities, symptoms of anaemia, persistent pelvic pain, an enlarging abdomen or problems with urination or bowel movements.
• For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.