Uterine fibroids:
When your uterus throws a curveball
Is this normal?
Heavy periods that soak through clothes? A belly that feels bloated even when you haven’t eaten? A constant urge to wee or a dull ache in your lower back?
These symptoms are common—but that doesn’t mean they’re normal. If this sounds familiar, it could be uterine fibroids. Let’s talk about what’s really going on—and what you can do about it.
Understanding
What exactly are fibroids?
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that form in or around the uterus. Think of them like muscle knots in the wrong place. They’re actually very common—especially in your 30s and 40s—but they can affect people in different ways.
Some fibroids are tiny, while others grow large enough to make your belly stick out. You might have one, or several. And while many cause no symptoms at all, others can have a real impact on your daily life.
What causes fibroids?
We don’t know for sure, but hormones—especially oestrogen—seem to play a big role. That’s why fibroids tend to grow during the reproductive years and often shrink after menopause. There’s a genetic link with fibroids, so if they run in your family—say your mum or sister has had them—you may be more likely to develop them too.
What do fibroids feel like?
Fibroids affect everyone differently—some people aren’t aware they have them, while others find the symptoms hard to manage.
Common symptoms include:
- Heavy or prolonged periods (soaking through pads or tampons every hour)
- Painful periods or cramping
- Bloating or a noticeably larger belly
- Needing to wee all the time, or not being able to fully empty your bladder
- Constipation or pain when going to the toilet
- Discomfort or pain during sex
- A dull ache in the lower back or pelvis
- Fertility issues or pregnancy complications
Fibroids Perth
Why don’t we talk about this?
Because for years, heavy periods and pelvic pain have been brushed off as “just part of being a woman.” But here’s the truth: if your symptoms are affecting your quality of life, they deserve attention.
You don’t have to put up with it. And you’re not being dramatic.
How are fibroids diagnosed?
Usually, the first step is a pelvic ultrasound. In some cases, an MRI or a saline sonohysterogram (a special type of scan using fluid in the uterus) might be recommended for a closer look—especially if fertility is part of the conversation.
If your GP thinks fibroids could be causing your symptoms, they can refer you on—and if you see me, we’ll talk through everything together, at your pace.
Fibroids treatment Perth
What can we do about fibroids?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Treatment depends on your symptoms, goals, and preferences. Here’s what we might consider:
Watch and wait
If your fibroids aren’t causing problems, we might simply monitor them.
Medication
Hormonal treatments (like the pill, IUDs, or newer medications that reduce oestrogen) can help with bleeding and pain.
Non-surgical options
Uterine artery embolisation (UAE) may shrink fibroids by reducing their blood supply.
Surgery
This could involve removing the fibroids (myomectomy) or, in some cases, removing the uterus (hysterectomy). We’ll talk through the pros and cons together if this is on the table.
The most important thing?
You feel informed, comfortable, and supported.
What people are saying
These are some of the stories I often hear from women navigating the ups and downs of fibroids:
- “I just thought I had ‘bad periods’ until I fainted from blood loss at work. That’s when I found out I had fibroids the size of a mandarin.”
- “It felt like carrying a bowling ball in my belly. I looked five months pregnant but wasn’t.”
- “I didn’t realise the pressure on my bladder was from fibroids. I just thought I had a tiny bladder!”
- “Trying for a baby made me take things seriously. The fibroids were impacting on the cavity of my uterus, so we had to talk through all the options.”
These stories reflect what many people go through—often without realising fibroids could be the cause.
Fibroids specialist Perth
What now?
If you’re wondering whether fibroids could be behind your symptoms, here are some next steps you can take:
Start tracking your symptoms
How heavy are your periods? When do you feel pain or pressure?
Talk to your GP
Ask if a pelvic ultrasound might be appropriate.
Think about your goals
Whether you're trying to ease symptoms, plan for fertility, or explore non-surgical options, knowing your goals can help guide the right approach.
Reach out
If you’d like to explore this further, I’d be happy to see you. Whether it’s a consult or even just a question via social media—I’m here.
Dr Tamara Hunter
Let’s get your health back on track
You know your body better than anyone. If something doesn’t feel right, trust that instinct. You deserve care that listens to you and works with your goals.
- Follow me on Instagram for educational content and women’s health conversations
- Book a consultation if you’d like to talk things through
- Download a symptom tracker to bring along to your GP or specialist appointment. As a founder of Charli.health, I’ve worked on a symptom tracker designed to help you log your cycle and symptoms. It’s a simple tool you can use to support conversations with your healthcare team.