Fibroids: What You Need to Know About This Common Women’s Health Condition

At Imaginatal, we believe that understanding your body is a vital step in feeling empowered about your health — especially during your fertility journey or pregnancy. One condition we’re asked about frequently is uterine fibroids.

Fibroids are extremely common, and many women have them without ever knowing. But for others, they can cause symptoms that affect everyday life — and sometimes fertility or pregnancy outcomes. In this post, we’ll explain what fibroids are, how they can affect you, and what your next steps might be if you suspect you have them.

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What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus (womb). Also known as leiomyomas or myomas, these growths can vary in size — from small and undetectable to large enough to distort the shape of the uterus.

They are incredibly common: it’s estimated that up to 70–80% of women will develop fibroids by the age of 50. Many women are unaware they have them unless they’re found during a scan for another reason.

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What Are the Symptoms of Fibroids?

While fibroids don’t always cause problems, they can lead to a range of symptoms, including:
• Heavy or prolonged periods
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Frequent urination
• Pain during intercourse
• Lower back pain
• Bloating or abdominal swelling
• Fertility issues or complications during pregnancy

Some women only discover they have fibroids during a routine pelvic ultrasound, or while trying to conceive.

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How Are Fibroids Diagnosed?

At Imaginatal, we use high-quality ultrasound technology to identify fibroids — whether they’re suspected due to symptoms or discovered during an early pregnancy or pelvic scan.

A pelvic ultrasound scan is often the first and most effective way to detect fibroids. It can show their:
• Size
• Number
• Location (inside, on the surface, or in the muscle wall of the uterus)

If further clarity is needed, we may recommend a transvaginal scan, or refer you for more advanced imaging like MRI — especially if fertility or pregnancy is a concern.

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Do Fibroids Affect Fertility or Pregnancy?

In some cases, yes. Fibroids may make it harder to conceive, depending on their location and size. For example, fibroids that distort the uterine cavity (submucosal fibroids) can interfere with embryo implantation.

During pregnancy, fibroids can sometimes:
• Increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm labour
• Cause more discomfort as the uterus expands
• Lead to complications during labour depending on their position

That said, many women with fibroids go on to have healthy pregnancies. The key is early detection and monitoring — something we’re proud to support at Imaginatal.

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What Are the Treatment Options?

If you’re experiencing symptoms or planning to conceive, treatment options can be discussed with your GP or a gynecology specialist. These may include:
• Watchful waiting (especially if symptoms are mild)
• Medication to help with pain or bleeding
• Minimally invasive procedures like uterine artery embolisation (UAE)
• Surgery, such as myomectomy (fibroid removal) or, in some cases, hysterectomy

Every woman’s journey is different — and we’re here to help you explore the next steps that are right for you.

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How Imaginatal Can Help

At Imaginatal, we offer private pelvic ultrasound scans and early pregnancy scans that can help detect fibroids and give you peace of mind about your reproductive health.

Our clinics offer a calm, professional, and supportive environment — whether you’re seeking clarity, reassurance, or planning a family.

If you’re concerned about fibroids, or simply want a deeper understanding of your reproductive health, we’re here to help.