Ask the Doc: ‘My Highland GP thinks I have fibroids’
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Dr Laura Ryan, NHS 24’s medical director, answers readers’ questions in our weekly column.
Q. My doctor thinks I may have fibroids. What are fibroids and how do they determine whether I have them?
A. If your GP suspects fibroids, then they will usually carry out a pelvic examination to look for any obvious signs.
They may also refer you to a local hospital for further tests outlined below.
One of the main tests carried out is an ultrasound scan. Two types of ultrasound scan can be used to help diagnose fibroids.
These are an abdominal ultrasound scan – where the ultrasound probe is moved over the outside of your tummy (abdomen) – and a transvaginal ultrasound scan involving a small ultrasound probe.
If an ultrasound scan suggests you have fibroids, you may be referred to a gynaecologist for the tests described below.
A hysteroscopy is where a small telescope (hysteroscope) is inserted into your womb via the cervix.
A hysteroscopy is most often used to look for fibroids within your womb.
A laparoscope is a small telescope with a light source and camera at one end.
During a laparoscopy, a surgeon will make a small incision in your abdomen.
A general anaesthetic is used, so you will be unconscious during the procedure.
A laparoscopy can be used to look for fibroids outside your womb or fibroids in the layer of muscle surrounding the womb.
In some cases, a small tissue sample may be removed during a hysteroscopy or laparoscopy for closer examination under a microscope.
For further information about fibroids and how they are diagnosed, visit the dedicated page at NHS Inform at https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/sexual-and-reproductive/fibroids#diagnosing-fibroids.
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