Fibroids and Ovarian Cysts

What Are Fibroids?

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths of muscle and tissue that develop within or around the uterus. They are very common — about 2 in 3 women will develop fibroids by the age of 50.

Common symptoms of fibroids

  • Heavy or prolonged periods

  • Pelvic pressure or pain

  • Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder

  • Constipation

  • Lower back pain

  • Difficulty conceiving or pregnancy complications (in some cases)

Some fibroids cause no symptoms at all and are found incidentally during scans.

What are Ovarian Cysts?

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside the ovaries. Most ovarian cysts are benign (non-cancerous) and resolve on their own without treatment.

Common types of cysts

  • Functional cysts (related to the menstrual cycle)

  • Dermoid cysts (containing different types of tissue)

  • Endometriomas (linked to endometriosis)

  • Cystadenomas (fluid-filled growths)

Symptoms of ovarian cysts

  • Pelvic pain (sudden or ongoing)

  • Bloating or a feeling of fullness

  • Changes in menstrual cycle

  • Pain during intercourse

Larger cysts or those causing severe symptoms may require treatment.

How are Fibroids and Cysts Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves:

  • Pelvic examination

  • Ultrasound imaging

  • MRI (in some cases, to assess size and location)

  • Blood tests (especially for ovarian cysts, to check tumour markers if needed)

Treatment Options

Not all fibroids or cysts need to be treated. Dr. Tourani will discuss the best approach based on your symptoms, size and location of the growths, and your future fertility plans.

For Fibroids:

  • Monitoring with regular scans

  • Medication to manage symptoms

  • Minimally invasive surgery (e.g., myomectomy) to remove fibroids

  • Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) for severe cases, when childbearing is complete

For Ovarian Cysts:

  • Watchful waiting (most cysts resolve naturally)

  • Surgical removal if cysts are large, persistent, causing symptoms, or have suspicious features

Dr. Tourani specialises in minimally invasive laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery offering faster recovery and smaller scars.

Personalised, Supportive Care

Each woman’s situation is unique. Dr. Affie Tourani offers a calm, thoughtful approach to diagnosis and treatment, helping you make informed decisions that suit your lifestyle and future goals.