Fibroids in Women
As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr explains how private medical insurance can provide fast access to diagnosis and treatment for fibroids in the UK. We understand that women's health concerns require clear, compassionate, and expert guidance.
WeCovr explains fibroids and private healthcare treatment options
A diagnosis of uterine fibroids can feel overwhelming. You might be dealing with uncomfortable symptoms, navigating long NHS waiting lists, and feeling uncertain about what comes next. It’s a common situation; in the UK, it’s estimated that as many as 1 in 3 women will develop fibroids at some point in their life.
The good news is that there are many highly effective treatments available. Private medical insurance (PMI) can be a powerful tool, unlocking rapid access to leading specialists and state-of-the-art procedures, allowing you to take back control of your health.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about fibroids, from symptoms and diagnosis to the full range of treatment options available privately in the UK.
What Exactly Are Fibroids?
First things first, let's demystify what fibroids are. In simple terms, fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the womb (uterus). They are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary significantly in size. Some can be as small as a pea, while others can grow to the size of a melon.
It's common for women to have more than one fibroid. Whether they cause symptoms often depends on their size, number, and location.
Types of Fibroids
A gynaecologist will classify fibroids based on where they grow in the womb. This is important because their location often dictates the type of symptoms you might experience and the best course of treatment.
| Type of Fibroid | Location | Common Associated Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Intramural | Within the muscular wall of the womb | Heavy periods, pelvic pain, backache, frequent urination |
| Subserosal | Outside the wall of the womb, into the pelvis | Often no symptoms unless they are very large and press on other organs |
| Submucosal | In the muscle layer beneath the inner lining of the womb | Heavy, prolonged bleeding, problems with fertility and pregnancy |
| Pedunculated | Attached to the outside of the womb by a stalk | Can sometimes twist, causing severe, sharp pain |
Are Fibroids Cancerous? A Key Concern Addressed
This is one of the first questions many women ask, and it’s important to be clear: fibroids are almost always benign (non-cancerous).
A cancerous growth that develops from the muscle of the womb is called a leiomyosarcoma. This is an extremely rare type of cancer, occurring in fewer than 1 in 1,000 cases of uterine growths. Your consultant will be able to distinguish between the two during diagnosis. For the vast majority of women, fibroids pose no cancer risk.
Who Gets Fibroids? Common Risk Factors in the UK
While the exact cause of fibroids is unknown, research has identified several key risk factors. Understanding these can help you and your doctor assess your likelihood of developing them.
According to NHS England data, fibroids are most common in women aged 30 to 50. However, they can develop at any age after the start of puberty.
Key Risk Factors for Developing Fibroids:
- Age: They are most common during a woman's reproductive years (from around 30 until the menopause). After the menopause, fibroids often shrink and symptoms ease due to lower oestrogen levels.
- Ethnic Origin: For reasons not yet fully understood, women of African-Caribbean origin are more likely to develop fibroids. They also tend to develop them at a younger age, and the fibroids may be larger or more numerous.
- Family History: If your mother or sister had fibroids, your risk of developing them is about three times higher than average.
- Hormones: The female hormones oestrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle, appear to stimulate the growth of fibroids.
- Lifestyle Factors:
- Obesity: Being overweight increases your risk, as fat tissue stores oestrogen.
- Diet: A diet high in red meat and low in green vegetables and fruit may increase your risk.
- Childbirth: Women who have given birth seem to have a lower risk of developing fibroids.
Recognising the Symptoms of Fibroids
Many women with fibroids have no symptoms at all and are only diagnosed during a routine gynaecological examination. However, when symptoms do occur, they can have a significant impact on your quality of life.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Heavy or painful periods (menorrhagia): This is the most common symptom. You might need to change pads or tampons very frequently or pass large blood clots.
- Prolonged periods: Menstrual bleeding that lasts longer than a week.
- Tummy (abdominal) pain or lower back pain: A persistent, dull ache is common.
- A feeling of pressure or fullness in your pelvic area.
- Frequent need to urinate: Caused by a fibroid pressing on your bladder.
- Constipation: Caused by a fibroid pressing on your rectum.
- Pain or discomfort during sex.
- In some cases, fertility problems or complications during pregnancy.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to speak to your GP. They can assess your situation and begin the diagnostic process.
The Journey to Diagnosis: NHS vs. Private Healthcare
Once you see your GP with symptoms, the next step is diagnosis. This typically involves a pelvic examination and further tests. Here, the pathway you take—NHS or private—can look quite different, particularly in terms of timing.
The NHS Pathway
- GP Appointment: You discuss your symptoms with your GP.
- Referral: If your GP suspects fibroids, they will refer you to a hospital for an ultrasound scan.
- Ultrasound Wait: You will be placed on a waiting list for the scan. According to 2024 NHS data, waiting times for diagnostic tests can range from several weeks to months, depending on your location.
- Gynaecologist Referral: Following the scan, you will be referred to a gynaecologist to discuss the results and treatment options.
- Gynaecologist Wait: This involves another waiting list, which can again be several months long. The overall target from referral to treatment on the NHS is 18 weeks, but this is frequently missed for non-urgent conditions.
The Private Healthcare Pathway with PMI
- GP Appointment: You still see your GP, who can provide an open referral letter for a private specialist. Some insurers now offer a digital GP service, allowing you to get a referral even faster.
- Choose Your Specialist: Your private health cover provider will give you a choice of approved gynaecologists. You can choose based on location, specialism, or hospital preference.
- Fast-Tracked Appointment: You can typically see a specialist within days or a week.
- Rapid Diagnostics: Scans and tests like ultrasound or MRI are usually performed within the same week, often at the same private hospital.
- Quick Treatment Plan: You and your consultant will discuss the results and agree on a treatment plan almost immediately.
NHS vs. Private Diagnosis: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | NHS Pathway | Private Pathway (with PMI) |
|---|---|---|
| Referral Time | Weeks to months | Days |
| Choice of Specialist | Limited to your local NHS trust | Wide choice of consultants |
| Diagnostic Test Wait | Can be several months | Typically within a week |
| Choice of Hospital | Assigned by NHS trust | Wide choice of clean, modern private hospitals |
| Time to Treatment | Potentially 6+ months | Usually within a few weeks |
The Critical Point: Fibroids, Pre-existing Conditions, and Your Health Insurance
This is the most important section for anyone considering private medical insurance for fibroid treatment. It is vital to understand how insurers view health conditions that you already have.
Crucially, standard private medical insurance in the UK does not cover pre-existing conditions.
A "pre-existing condition" is any disease, illness, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment before your policy start date.
- If you have already been diagnosed with fibroids, or you are currently seeing a doctor for symptoms that turn out to be fibroids, treatment will not be covered by a new PMI policy. Fibroids are generally considered a chronic condition, as they can persist for years, even if they don't always cause symptoms.
- Private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise unexpectedly after you have taken out your policy. An acute condition is one that is short-term and likely to respond quickly to treatment.
What does this mean for you?
- If you are healthy and have no symptoms: Now is the perfect time to get private health cover. If you develop fibroids after your policy is active, you will be covered for private diagnosis and treatment.
- If you have symptoms but no diagnosis: It is essential to declare this during your application. An insurer will likely place an "exclusion" on your policy for gynaecological issues until a diagnosis is made.
- If you have a fibroid diagnosis: A standard policy won't cover treatment for them.
At WeCovr, we believe in complete transparency. As your expert PMI broker, we can help you understand the underwriting process and find a policy that's right for your circumstances, ensuring there are no surprises down the line.
Private Treatment Options for Fibroids Covered by PMI in the UK
If you have private medical insurance and are diagnosed with fibroids after your policy starts, you gain access to a wide range of cutting-edge treatments. Your consultant will recommend the best option based on your symptoms, the fibroids' size and location, and your future family plans.
Medication
This is often the first line of treatment, aimed at managing symptoms rather than removing the fibroids.
- Hormonal treatments: Such as the combined oral contraceptive pill or the Mirena coil (an intrauterine system), can help to reduce heavy bleeding.
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues: These medications put you into a temporary, reversible menopause, shrinking the fibroids. They are often used for a short period before surgery.
Non-Invasive Procedures
These procedures don't require any cuts to the skin.
- MRI-guided focused ultrasound: This innovative technique uses high-intensity ultrasound waves to heat and destroy fibroid tissue. It’s done inside an MRI scanner, allowing the consultant to see the fibroids and target them precisely. It preserves the uterus and has a very quick recovery time.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
These are "keyhole" procedures that result in less pain and a faster recovery than traditional open surgery.
- Uterine Artery Embolisation (UAE): A radiologist injects tiny particles into the blood vessels that supply the fibroids, cutting off their blood supply and causing them to shrink. This is a highly effective, uterus-sparing option.
- Myomectomy (Hysteroscopic or Laparoscopic): This is the surgical removal of fibroids while leaving the womb intact. It's the preferred option for women who want to have children in the future.
- Hysteroscopic myomectomy: A thin telescope is passed through the vagina and cervix into the womb to remove fibroids on the inner wall.
- Laparoscopic (keyhole) myomectomy: Small cuts are made in the abdomen to remove fibroids on the outer wall or within the muscle of the womb.
Surgical Options
- Myomectomy (Abdominal): This is open surgery, involving a larger cut in the abdomen, similar to a caesarean section. It's used for very large or numerous fibroids.
- Hysterectomy: This is the surgical removal of the womb and is the only treatment that guarantees fibroids will not return. It is a major operation and is only considered when other treatments have failed, symptoms are severe, or the woman has completed her family.
Summary of Private Fibroid Treatments
| Treatment Type | Description | Best For | Recovery Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medication | Hormonal treatments to manage symptoms. | Mild symptoms, managing heavy bleeding. | N/A |
| MRI-Focused Ultrasound | Non-invasive, uses sound waves to destroy fibroids. | Women who want to avoid surgery and preserve fertility. | 1-2 days |
| Uterine Artery Embolisation | Blocks blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink. | Women with large/multiple fibroids who don't want surgery. | 1-2 weeks |
| Laparoscopic Myomectomy | Keyhole surgery to remove fibroids. | Women who want to preserve their womb for future pregnancy. | 2-4 weeks |
| Hysterectomy | Surgical removal of the womb. | Severe symptoms, women who have completed their family. | 6-8 weeks |
How Private Medical Insurance UK Can Help You Access Fibroid Treatment
Having a private health cover plan in place before you need it offers significant advantages, transforming your healthcare experience.
The Benefits of Going Private
- Speed: Bypass long NHS waiting lists for consultations, scans, and surgery.
- Choice: Select a leading consultant and a hospital that is convenient for you.
- Comfort: Recover in a private en-suite room with amenities like a TV and flexible visiting hours.
- Access to Technology: Get treated with the latest, least invasive techniques that may have limited availability on the NHS.
- Peace of Mind: Focus on your recovery without the stress of long waits or uncertainty.
Understanding Your Policy: What's Typically Covered?
A comprehensive private medical insurance policy will typically cover:
- Specialist consultations and diagnostic tests (MRI, CT, ultrasound).
- The full cost of your chosen surgical or non-surgical procedure.
- Hospital fees, including your private room and nursing care.
- Anaesthetist and surgeon fees.
- Post-operative care, including physiotherapy if needed.
It's important to check the "outpatient limit" on your policy, as this will determine how much cover you have for initial consultations and diagnostic tests before you are admitted to hospital.
Choosing the Best PMI Provider for Women's Health
The UK private medical insurance market has several excellent providers, each with different strengths. When choosing a policy, especially with women's health in mind, consider:
- Outpatient Cover: Ensure it's sufficient for consultations and scans.
- Hospital List: Check that your preferred local private hospitals are included.
- Cancer Cover: Look for comprehensive cover that includes access to the latest drugs and treatments.
- Mental Health Support: A fibroid diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing. Many providers now offer excellent mental health support services.
- Added Benefits: Some providers, like Vitality, offer rewards for staying healthy.
Navigating these options can be complex. This is where an independent PMI broker like WeCovr is invaluable. We are not tied to any single insurer. Our role is to understand your needs and budget, compare policies from across the market, and recommend the best private health cover for you. Our advice and service come at no cost to you.
Lifestyle and Wellness: Managing Fibroid Symptoms Naturally
While medical treatment is often necessary, certain lifestyle adjustments can help manage symptoms and support your overall well-being.
- Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, green vegetables, and oily fish can have anti-inflammatory effects. Reducing red meat and alcohol intake may also be beneficial.
- Exercise: Regular, moderate exercise like walking, swimming, or yoga can help manage pain, reduce stress, and maintain a healthy weight.
- Stress Management: Chronic stress can impact hormone levels. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, or simply making time for hobbies can make a real difference.
To support your health journey, WeCovr provides all our health and life insurance customers with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It's a fantastic tool to help you make informed dietary choices to support your hormonal health.
Why Choose WeCovr for Your Private Health Cover?
At WeCovr, we are committed to making private healthcare accessible and easy to understand. As an FCA-authorised broker, we provide impartial, expert advice you can trust.
- Expertise: We specialise in the UK private medical insurance market.
- Whole-of-Market Comparison: We compare plans from all leading insurers to find you the best deal.
- No-Cost Service: Our advice and support are completely free for you.
- High Customer Satisfaction: Our clients consistently rate our service as excellent on independent review platforms.
- Added Value: We offer policyholders perks like our CalorieHero app and discounts on other insurance products, such as life or income protection cover, when you buy through us.
Can I get private medical insurance if I already have fibroids?
How much does private fibroid removal cost in the UK without insurance?
If I get private health cover now, will it cover fibroids if I'm diagnosed next year?
Take the first step towards securing your health and peace of mind. Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and let our experts find the perfect private medical insurance UK plan for you.
Related guides
Why private medical insurance and how does it work?
What is Private Medical Insurance?
Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.How does it work?
Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment
Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.
Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance
Just ask yourself:👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?
Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.
Benefits offered by private medical insurance
Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.
Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.
Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.
Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.
Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.
Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.
Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.
Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.
Important Fact!
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!
Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?
👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.
Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.
It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.
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