Uterine fibroids are common, non-cancerous growths in or on the wall of the uterus. Many cause no trouble at all — but when they lead to heavy periods, pain or pressure, they can almost always be treated, often through keyhole surgery.
Fibroids (medically, leiomyomas) are firm growths made of muscle and fibrous tissue that develop in or around the uterus. They range from seedling-sized to large, and a woman can have one or many.
They are almost always benign. Having fibroids does not mean you have cancer, and the vast majority never turn into it.
Many fibroids are silent and found by chance on a scan. When they do cause symptoms, the common ones are:
The exact cause isn't fully known, but growth is driven by hormones and influenced by a few factors:
It's worth getting checked if your periods are heavy enough to disrupt daily life, if you have ongoing pelvic pressure or pain, or if you're having trouble conceiving. Heavy bleeding over time can also cause anaemia (low iron), which is very treatable once identified.
Diagnosis usually starts with a pelvic examination and an ultrasound, which shows the number, size and position of fibroids. Occasionally an MRI or a hysteroscopy (a slim camera passed into the uterus) is used to plan treatment precisely.
Not every fibroid needs treating. The right choice depends on your symptoms, the size and position of the fibroids, and whether you'd like to have children in future.
When surgery is the answer, laparoscopic (keyhole) techniques usually mean smaller cuts, less pain, a shorter hospital stay and a quicker return to normal life — often home within a day or two. As an FMAS- and DMAS-trained laparoscopic surgeon, Dr. Ritika performs these procedures at Cloudnine, and will only ever recommend surgery when it's genuinely the best option for you.
A calm, clear consultation is the best next step. Dr. Ritika will explain what's going on and what your options are — no pressure, no jargon.
No. Fibroids are almost always benign, and having them does not raise your risk of uterine cancer in any meaningful way. Cancerous change is extremely rare.
No — most don't. Small, symptom-free fibroids are simply monitored. Treatment is considered only when fibroids cause troublesome symptoms or are growing.
Many women with fibroids conceive without any problem. Some fibroids, depending on size and location, can affect fertility or pregnancy — which is exactly the kind of thing to discuss and plan for.
Because the cuts are small, most women go home within a day or two and return to light activity within a week or so, far quicker than open surgery.
New fibroids can sometimes develop over the years, which is why the treatment plan is always tailored to your age and future plans.
Consultations at Cloudnine Hospital, Phase 3 Industrial Area, Mohali · Mon–Sat, 10 AM – 5 PM.
This page is for general education and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have urgent symptoms, please seek medical care promptly.