Fibroids

Definition:

Uterine fibroids are tumors that grow from cells forming the muscle of the uterus; they can project from the wall of the uterus into the uterine cavity. Fibroids can be as small as a pea or as large as a basketball and are almost always benign.

Mr Stefan Chmelik on Fibroids (myoma)

Fibroids are found in the pelvis of many women, and their size and location determine whether they are causing a problem or not. The main implications are either to fertility if they are inside the uterus, they can cause pain if pressing on an organ and sometimes heavy bleeding. Fibroids are not cancerous. Generally, in Chinese Medicine we say a fibroid can potentially be shrunk if it is less than 10cm in size. With larger fibroids treatment is aimed at stopping further growth, or at aiding recovery post-surgery if that is the best treatment option, which is likely to help prevent a reoccurrence of the fibroid. I work with gynecologists and radiologist colleagues to scan and monitor progress.

There are several different kinds of fibroids, and treatment will vary depending on what form is diagnosed. Herbs and acupuncture are commonly very helpful, and diet has an important role in specific types of fibroid.