Benign tumour growths, so-called uterine fibroids, can form in the uterus. The most common indications for treatment are bleeding symptoms up to anaemia. Menstruation pains, pressure pains with and without radiation, infertility and miscarriages may occur in connection with a uterine fibroid. Other organs can also be affected if the fibroid exerts pressure on neighbouring structures. Even with modern imaging procedures (ultrasound, MRI) a benign fibroid cannot be distinguished with absolute certainty from a malignant tumour. However the examinations do allow for an evaluation of the organ structures as well as further treatment in consultation with your referring physician.
Who should have a check-up?
Why some women develop fibroids and not others, has not been fully clarified. The individual risk is presumably a combination of heredity and hormonal dysregulation. This thesis is also supported by the fact that the growth of the fibroids either stagnates or even regresses after the menopause.
How is the examination carried out?
During the initial evaluation your gynaecologist manually feels the size, shape and surface of the uterus. An enlarged womb may justify the suspicion of a fibroid. A closer examination of the affected regions by ultrasound generally follows.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pelvis should be carried out as a follow-up examination. It is the superior method for the visualization and assessment of the number, location, size and texture of the myoma, the size of the uterus and assessment of the fallopian tubes and ovaries.
During MRI you are – in the same way as during ultrasound – not exposed to x-ray radiation. The examination is carried out in the supine position and is non-intrusive and painless.
During the initial evaluation your gynaecologist manually feels the size, shape and surface of the uterus. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pelvis should be carried out as a follow-up examination. It is the superior method for the visualization and assessment of the number, location, size and texture of the myoma, the size of the uterus and assessment of the fallopian tubes and ovaries.