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Uterine fibroids are growths in the uterus and are the most common tumours of the female reproductive system. When symptoms do occur, they can include heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, bloating, or urinary issues. Although fibroids affect an estimated 20-30% of women in Singapore, misconceptions about the condition are widespread, often causing unnecessary worry, delayed treatment, or confusion.
Here, we aim to debunk five common myths to provide clarity and raise awareness about uterine fibroids.
Uterine fibroids are benign (noncancerous) growths and are not linked to uterine cancer. Although they may cause symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pain or bloating, they are rarely life-threatening. Fewer than 1% of cases involve a cancerous change, and having fibroids does not increase the risk of uterine cancer.
The malignant form, called leiomyosarcoma, is an extremely rare tumour that arises from abnormal muscle cells. It can occur with or without fibroids, but its development within an existing fibroid is uncommon.
Not all fibroids cause symptoms, and studies show that at least 60% of women with fibroids remain asymptomatic. Whether issues arise depends on the size and location of the fibroids, with larger growths generally more likely to cause noticeable problems. However, even small fibroids can sometimes cause symptoms.
When problems do occur, they can vary greatly from person to person. The most common include heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, bloating and pressure on nearby organs such as the bladder or bowels.
Fibroids can affect fertility when they distort the uterus, block the fallopian tubes or interfere with the uterine lining. This may make it harder for sperm to reach the egg or for implantation to occur. However, most fibroids do not grow large enough to cause these problems, and many women with fibroids conceive naturally and carry healthy pregnancies to term. When fibroids do contribute to infertility, treatment options are available that can improve the chances of conception and successful delivery.
While fibroids are most commonly diagnosed in women in their 30s and 40s, they can occur at almost any age during the reproductive years. Fibroid growth is strongly influenced by hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone, which explains why risk tends to decrease after menopause when hormone levels decline. While not every woman will experience symptoms, fibroids remain a widespread condition that can affect women well beyond their 30s and 40s.
In the past, hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) was often the standard treatment for fibroids. Today, however, there are several other options available depending on a woman’s symptoms, fertility goals and overall health.
In some cases, medication may be prescribed to relieve pain, reduce heavy menstrual bleeding or control fibroid growth. These can be hormonal or non-hormonal, taken orally or by injection, and in some cases, may even shrink fibroids. For women who wish to preserve fertility, a myomectomy can be performed to remove fibroids while leaving the uterus intact. Advances in laparoscopic techniques now enable smaller incisions, faster recovery and less visible scarring.
If you are experiencing symptoms of fibroids or exploring treatment options, consider scheduling a consultation with our gynaecologist. We provide a thorough evaluation and guide you through the available treatment options, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
