July marks International Fibroid Awareness Month, a time to shed light on a condition that affects millions of women worldwide, yet too often remains under-recognised and undertreated.

Uterine fibroids (benign growths of the muscular uterine wall) are one of the most common gynaecological conditions globally. Despite being non-cancerous, fibroids can have a profound impact on women’s health, fertility, quality of life, and work participation. The ripple effect extends across healthcare systems, families, and economies.

This month is an opportunity to break the silence around fibroids, challenge the myth that “painful, heavy periods are just part of being a woman,” and encourage those affected to seek support.

In this blog, we’ll explore:

• The global burden of fibroids
• The impact on Australian women
• The emotional, physical, and economic toll fibroids can take
• Why early diagnosis and treatment are vital
• How to seek help if you’re experiencing symptoms

What are uterine fibroids?

Fibroids (also known as leiomyomas) are non-cancerous growths of smooth muscle and connective tissue that occur within the uterus’ muscular walls. They can vary dramatically in:

• Size: from undetectable to grapefruit-sized or larger
• Number: single or multiple
• Location: inside the uterine cavity (submucosal), within the muscle wall (intramural), or on the outer surface (subserosal)

Some fibroids remain small and cause no issues. Others grow over time, distorting the shape of the uterus and leading to a range of debilitating symptoms, including:

• Heavy and/or prolonged periods
• Anaemia +/- related fatigue (please read this previous blog for a more detailed discussion about the management of fibroids that are causing heavy menstrual bleeding)
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Bloating or abdominal distension (please read this previous blog for a more detailed discussion about the management of fibroids that are causing so-called pressure symptoms)
• Bladder and/or bowel issues
• Discomfort during sex
• Difficulty conceiving and/or pregnancy complications (please read this and this previous blog for a more detailed discussion around how fibroids can impact upon fertility)

A global women’s health issue

Fibroids are not rare. In fact, they are incredibly common:

• An estimated 50–70% of women will develop fibroids by age 50
• Rates are often higher among women of African, Asian, and/or Middle Eastern descent
• Fibroids are the leading cause of hysterectomy worldwide

Despite this, fibroids are underdiagnosed and often undertreated. Many women delay seeking help, either because they’ve been told their symptoms are “normal”, or because they feel dismissed when they do raise concerns.

In some countries, the average delay from symptom onset to diagnosis is over five years. This delay can lead to worsening symptoms, avoidable complications, and prolonged suffering.

The emotional and social toll

The impact of fibroids goes far beyond the physical.

• Heavy bleeding can lead to social isolation, anxiety about leaving the house, and missed work or study
• Pelvic pain can disrupt sleep, intimacy, and daily functioning
• Fertility challenges can cause enormous emotional distress and strain on relationships

For many women, the experience of living with fibroids is marked by frustration, fatigue, and feeling unheard. Some have been told for years that their symptoms are just part of being a woman, or that they should simply “wait for menopause”.

International Fibroid Awareness Month is a powerful reminder: you don’t have to live with pain or heavy bleeding. Help is available!

What about here in Australia?

While data on fibroids in Australia is limited, we know from both research and clinical experience that fibroids are a significant health issue for Australian women:

• Fibroids are one of the leading indications for gynaecological surgery in Australia
• Many women undergo an extended duration of medical treatment with GPs before being referred for specialist care
• The true prevalence is likely underreported due to normalisation of symptoms and delays in diagnosis

Women in rural and remote areas, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, often face additional barriers to accessing specialist care. This can lead to disparities in diagnosis and treatment, and longer waits for surgical options like myomectomy or hysterectomy.

Moreover, fibroids contribute significantly to lost productivity, time off work, and increased healthcare costs (both for the individual and the system).

Raising awareness leads to earlier care

One of the key messages of Fibroid Awareness Month is that early diagnosis leads to better outcomes. Fibroids don’t always require surgery, but when they do, timely referral to a gynaecologist can make all the difference.

With improved imaging (like transvaginal ultrasound), personalised treatment options, and a growing emphasis on shared decision-making, more women are able to:

• Avoid unnecessary suffering
• Preserve fertility
• Access minimally invasive treatments
• Regain control over their health and quality of life

A spectrum of treatments

There’s no “one size fits all” when it comes to fibroids. Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, size and location of fibroids, patient preferences, and whether fertility is a consideration.

Here’s a brief summary:

Medical options

• Tranexamic acid (TXA) tablets to reduce bleeding during periods
• Iron supplementation (tablets and/or an iron infusion) to treat anaemia
• Hormonal options like the oral contraceptive pill or Mirena intra-uterine device (IUD) to reduce bleeding
• GnRH analogues to shrink fibroids temporarily (often prior to surgery)

Surgical options

• Myomectomy (removing fibroids, while retaining the uterus): laparoscopic, open, or hysteroscopic
• Endometrial ablation: suitable for women who don’t wish to have children in future
• Hysterectomy: for those seeking a definitive solution

Your GP and gynaecologist can help navigate these options with you, taking into account your values, goals, and lifestyle.

When should I see someone?

If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s worth speaking with your GP:

• Periods that are very heavy and / or prolonged (ie. lasting for more than 8 days)
• Symptoms or signs of anaemia
• A feeling of pelvic pressure or fullness in your pelvis
• Difficulty falling pregnant
• A known history of fibroids with worsening symptoms

Your GP can arrange a pelvic ultrasound and, if needed, refer you to a gynaecologist for further evaluation and management.

At Maven Centre, we support women through every step: from diagnosis to treatment and beyond. We understand how disruptive fibroids can be, and will work with you to find the least invasive, most effective option for your unique needs.

A final note this Fibroid Awareness Month

Uterine fibroids affect millions of women, yet too many are still suffering in silence. You are not alone, and your symptoms are not something you just have to put up with.

This July, in honour of International Fibroid Awareness Month:

• Take time to reflect on your health
• Book that check-up you’ve been putting off
• Start a conversation: with your doctor, your friends, your community
• Share this blog to raise awareness and support others

At Maven Centre, we’re here to listen, support, and guide you through your journey, with kindness, clinical expertise, and a focus on you.

Need support or have questions?

Speak to your GP, then book a consultation with one of our gynaecologists. Relief from fibroid symptoms is possible, and help is closer than you think.