I knew that fibroids were benign growths

Photo of a woman outdoors

Iris, 51 years old

"The fibroid hasn't changed much in the years since I've known about it."

I go to the gynecologist regularly to have my coil checked. He does an ultrasound scan as part of the check-up. One time, around five years ago, he discovered that I have a fibroid during the ultrasound.

It’s on the outside of the womb. Its size varies between one and two centimeters. The fibroid hasn't changed much in the years since I've known about it. My doctor says that – at that size – it just needs to be monitored. No treatment is necessary as long as nothing changes. If I have any symptoms I should get in touch. But because I don't have any symptoms at the moment, I see no reason to do anything about it.

The fibroid is measured every year during the routine check-up. My doctor doesn't talk about it much though, because nothing changes.

The didn't really make me worry. After all, I was told that – at that size and without any symptoms – there was no need to take any further action. I already knew that fibroids are benign growths, and wasn't worried about tumors or anything.

If I started to notice symptoms and problems, I’d look for information and seek medical advice about the treatment options, especially to find out if surgery was really necessary. But as long as the fibroid doesn't change, I don't think about it and can get on with my life.

Acknowledgment

Our real-life stories summarize interviews with people who are affected by the medical condition. Our interview partners have given us permission to publish their stories. We would like to express our sincere thanks to them.

The real-life stories give an insight into how other people cope and live with a medical condition. Their opinions and comments are not recommendations by IQWiG.

Please note: The names of our interview partners have been changed to protect their identity. The photos are of models.

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Updated on June 15, 2021

Next planned update: 2024

Publisher:

Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG, Germany)

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