Your Private Fibroid Ultrasound Scan at London Private Ultrasound is a comprehensive and patient-centred service designed to provide clear answers about uterine fibroids.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Fibroids (also known as uterine myomas or leiomyomas) are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the womb (uterus). They are incredibly common, affecting a significant number of women, particularly during their reproductive years and up to menopause. Fibroids vary widely in size, from as small as a pea to as large as a melon, and their location is crucial in determining symptoms and potential impact.

Fibroids are often categorised by their location within the uterus:

• Intramural: Developing within the muscular wall of the uterus. This is the most common type.
• Subserosal: Located on the outer surface of the uterus, potentially extending outwards.
• Submucosal: Protruding into the uterine cavity, just beneath the womb lining. These often cause the most significant symptoms, such as heavy bleeding.
• Pedunculated: Attached to the uterus by a stalk, either on the outside (subserosal) or inside the uterine cavity (submucosal).

Common Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

While many women with fibroids experience no symptoms at all, others may suffer significantly. The type and severity of symptoms often depend on the fibroids' size, number, and location.

If you’re experiencing any of the following, a pelvic ultrasound scan is often the first and most effective step to understanding your symptoms and confirming the presence of fibroids:

• Heavy or prolonged periods (menorrhagia): This is one of the most common symptoms and can lead to anaemia.
• Pelvic pain or pressure: A feeling of fullness or discomfort in the lower abdomen.
• Bloating or abdominal enlargement: Particularly with larger fibroids, they can make your stomach appear distended.
• Frequent urination: If fibroids press on the bladder.
• Constipation: If fibroids press on the bowel.
• Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia): Depending on the fibroid's location.
• Fertility problems or recurrent miscarriage: Fibroids, especially submucosal ones, can interfere with conception or pregnancy progression.
• Lower back pain or leg pain: If fibroids press on nerves or muscles.

Why Have a Private Fibroid Ultrasound Scan?

A dedicated fibroid ultrasound scan offers vital benefits, whether you have suspected symptoms or simply want reassurance. It is the gold standard for non-invasive diagnosis and monitoring.

Reasons to consider a fibroid ultrasound include:

• Confirming Diagnosis: Accurately confirming the presence, size, number, and precise location of fibroids.
• Monitoring Growth: For women with known fibroids, regular scans help monitor their growth or changes over time, informing management decisions.
• Investigating Unexplained Pelvic Symptoms: A crucial tool for understanding the cause of abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, or pressure when other explanations are unclear.
• Pre-treatment Imaging: Essential imaging for women considering various fibroid treatments, including surgical options (e.g., myomectomy) or non-surgical interventions (e.g., uterine fibroid embolisation).
• Fertility Assessment: Assessing the impact of fibroids on the uterine cavity and overall fertility for those planning pregnancy.
• Routine Screening for Peace of Mind: Many women choose a scan even without symptoms, particularly if they have a family history of fibroids or are in the typical age range where fibroids commonly develop.

What Does the Fibroid Ultrasound Scan Involve?

Our expert sonographers utilise the latest high-resolution ultrasound equipment to provide you with clear and accurate answers regarding uterine fibroids. A comprehensive pelvic ultrasound scan, usually combining both transabdominal and transvaginal approaches for the best detail, assesses:

• Uterus and Endometrium (womb lining): Overall size, shape, and texture of the womb, and the condition of its inner lining.
• Presence and Location of Fibroids: Detailed identification and mapping of all fibroids, including their type (intramural, subserosal, submucosal, pedunculated).
• Distortion of Womb or Cavity: Assessing if fibroids are causing any distortion of the uterine shape or cavity, which can be relevant for symptoms or fertility.
• Blood Flow to the Fibroid: Using advanced Doppler technology where needed, to evaluate blood supply to the fibroids, which can be important for assessing their activity or before certain treatments. ( additional fees may apply )
• Ovaries and Adnexa: A general check of the ovaries and surrounding pelvic structures to rule out other causes for symptoms.

What to Expect on the Day of Your Scan

Your comfort and privacy are paramount throughout your visit to our Central London clinic.

• The scan typically takes 15–20 minutes to complete.
• You may be asked to attend with a full bladder for the initial transabdominal (over the tummy) part of the scan, as this helps provide clearer images.
• A transvaginal (internal) scan may also be offered to improve clarity and provide more detailed images of the uterus and fibroids. This is completely optional and will be discussed thoroughly with you by your sonographer beforehand.
• A female sonographer is available upon request, ensuring a comfortable and respectful environment.
• We will explain everything clearly before, during, and after the scan, ensuring you feel informed and reassured at every step.

Results & Follow-Up Guidance

We understand the importance of timely and clear information. You’ll receive a detailed written report of your scan findings within 24 hours of your appointment.

If fibroids are found, our expert team will provide clear, actionable guidance based on your results. This may include:

• Advice on size and growth monitoring: Helping you understand the nature of your fibroids and if they require ongoing observation.
• Recommendations for follow-up scans: Suggesting the appropriate interval for repeat scans to monitor any changes over time.
• Referral to a specialist Gynaecologist: If clinical findings warrant further management or discussion of treatment options, we can facilitate a private referral or provide all necessary documentation for you to follow up with your NHS GP.
• Optional blood tests: We can provide optional same-day blood tests to check iron levels (due to heavy bleeding) or assess fertility markers if relevant to your condition. ( additional fees apply )

Do Fibroids Need Treatment?

Not always. Many women live with uterine fibroids without ever experiencing significant symptoms or requiring treatment. Small, asymptomatic fibroids often do not necessitate intervention unless they start to grow rapidly or cause problems. However, early diagnosis gives you crucial information and provides more options for managing your health.

Understanding your fibroids through a precise ultrasound scan allows you to:

• Monitor fibroids naturally: For those with mild or no symptoms, regular monitoring may be the best approach.
• Plan future pregnancies: If fibroids might impact fertility, early assessment allows for proactive planning with a fertility specialist.
• Discuss removal or management options: If fibroids are causing significant symptoms, you can use your scan results to discuss various interventions with a gynaecologist, such as:
  • Myomectomy: Surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus.
  • Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE): A non-surgical procedure to shrink fibroids.
  • Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus (typically for severe cases or when fertility is not a concern).
  • Medication: Managing symptoms like heavy bleeding.

Price & Appointment Details

We strive to make private fibroid diagnostics accessible and efficient.

Fibroid Ultrasound Scan (Pelvic Ultrasound)

• Duration: 15–20 minutes
• Report: Sent within 24 hours
• Fee: £197

Additional Benefits for Your Convenience:

• No GP referral needed: You can self-refer directly for your scan.
• Same-day and next-day appointments often available.
• Friendly female-led team for your comfort and peace of mind.
• Optional same-day blood tests (e.g., haemoglobin for iron levels, or hormone tests relevant to fertility concerns) can be organised if needed.

Clinic Locations

London Private Ultrasound offers convenient access to high-quality fibroid ultrasound scans in two prime locations:

London Private Ultrasound 27 Welbeck Street, Welbeck Hospital, London, W1G 8EN Conveniently located just off Harley Street, easily accessible from across Central London.

London Private Ultrasound  - St Albans - Private Sono 54-56 Victoria St, St Albans, AL1 3HZ Providing services to St Albans and the surrounding Hertfordshire area.

Book Your Appointment Today

Take control of your gynaecological health with a fast, accurate fibroid scan. Understanding your condition is the first step towards effective management and peace of mind.

To schedule your private fibroid ultrasound scan:

• Call us on 020 7101 3377
• Email us: [email protected]
• Or book online for your preferred time and date using our secure system.

Why Choose London Private Ultrasound?

Choosing the right clinic for your fibroid scan ensures accuracy, comfort, and comprehensive support.

• Highly experienced female sonographers and doctors: Our specialist team is dedicated to women's health.
• Clear reports and compassionate care: We ensure you understand your results and feel supported throughout your journey.
• Trusted by GPs, gynaecologists, and fertility clinics: Our diagnostic accuracy and professional approach are highly regarded within the medical community.
• Comfortable, discreet clinic environment: Designed to put you at ease during your scan.
• NHS-compliant protocols and guidance: Our procedures adhere to high clinical standards, and we can seamlessly integrate with your NHS care pathway if needed.