Uterine fibroids and polyps in Badalona

Fibroids and polyps are among the most common findings in gynaecology. Most are benign. Some cause no symptoms and only need monitoring; others may lead to heavy periods, irregular bleeding, pelvic pressure or difficulties when trying to conceive. At Badagine, we assess each finding in the context of your symptoms, age and pregnancy plans.

What are uterine fibroids?

Fibroids (also called leiomyomas) are benign growths made of the muscle tissue of the uterus. They are common, particularly between the ages of 30 and 50. Their number, size and position vary. They are often described according to their location:

• Submucosal: grow towards or into the uterine cavity and may affect menstrual bleeding or fertility.
• Intramural: develop within the muscular wall of the uterus.
• Subserosal: grow towards the outer surface of the uterus.

Location can be just as important as size when deciding whether treatment is needed.

What are uterine polyps?

Polyps are usually benign overgrowths of the lining of the uterus (endometrial polyps) or the cervix (cervical polyps). They are often found incidentally during an ultrasound or routine examination. They may cause bleeding between periods, bleeding after sex or, in some cases, difficulties conceiving. Assessment and possible removal are considered according to symptoms, age and menopausal status.

What symptoms can they cause?

• Heavy or prolonged periods, sometimes with clots.
• Bleeding between periods or after sex.
• Pelvic pressure, a feeling of heaviness or pain.
• Frequent urination or constipation when a fibroid is large.
• Anaemia-related tiredness or palpitations due to repeated blood loss.
• Difficulty becoming or staying pregnant in some cases.

These symptoms can have other causes, so an assessment is important.

How are fibroids and polyps diagnosed?

Assessment starts with your medical history and a gynaecological examination. A transvaginal ultrasound is usually used to assess the number, size and location of fibroids and to look for polyps. If a lesion inside the uterine cavity needs closer assessment, hysteroscopy may be recommended. This procedure uses a fine camera to examine the inside of the uterus. MRI can provide additional information in selected cases.

Treatment options

Not every fibroid or polyp needs treatment. The decision depends on symptoms, size and location, age and whether you wish to become pregnant.

• Monitoring: periodic ultrasound scans may be enough when there are no symptoms or concerning features.
• Medication: medicines may reduce bleeding or discomfort and help treat anaemia; sometimes they are used before surgery.
• Operative hysteroscopy: polyps and some submucosal fibroids can be removed through the vagina and cervix, without abdominal incisions.
• Surgery: when needed, minimally invasive approaches such as laparoscopy may be suitable. The best option depends on the individual case.
• Other minimally invasive techniques: options such as radiofrequency ablation may be appropriate for selected fibroids.

We will explain the expected benefits, risks and alternatives so that you can make an informed decision or seek a second opinion.

Fibroids, polyps and fertility

Polyps and fibroids that distort the uterine cavity, particularly submucosal fibroids, may affect embryo implantation. Many other fibroids do not affect fertility or pregnancy. If you are trying to conceive, we can discuss whether further assessment or treatment before pregnancy is advisable. See our fertility assessment page.

Bleeding after menopause

Any bleeding after menopause needs assessment, even if it is light or happens once. Endometrial polyps are one possible cause, but other conditions must be considered. Read more about bleeding after menopause.

When should you book an appointment?

• Your periods are unusually heavy or last longer than usual.
• You bleed between periods or after sex.
• You have any bleeding after menopause.
• You have persistent pelvic pain, pressure or abdominal enlargement.
• You are trying to conceive and have been diagnosed with a fibroid or polyp.
• You have been offered a procedure and would like a second opinion.

This page is for information only and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Content reviewed by Dr D. Barazi del Pino, Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, COMB registration no. 41308.

Frequently asked questions

Are fibroids dangerous? Can they become cancer?

Fibroids are benign tumours. Transformation into a malignant tumour is very rare. New symptoms or unexpected growth should nevertheless be assessed.

Do all fibroids need surgery?

No. Many cause no symptoms and only need monitoring. Treatment depends on size, location, symptoms and pregnancy plans.

Can fibroids or polyps prevent pregnancy?

Some can affect implantation, particularly when they distort the uterine cavity. Others have no meaningful effect. Assessment is individual.

Can polyps come back?

Yes. New polyps can develop after removal, so follow-up may be recommended depending on your circumstances.