During a routine pelvic examination, the doctor may suspect the presence of fibroids if their size is significant. Other times they can be diagnosed when investigations are performed for other medical conditions.
There is a number of investigations that may give information about fibroids:
- Pelvic Ultrasound: can give useful information about the number, the size and the location of fibroids.
- Hysteroscopy: This permits the doctor to see some fibroids inside the uterine cavity which may be the cause of heavy periods or even infertility.
- Hysterosalpingography (HSG): is a special X-ray test which may detect abnormal changes in the size and shape of the uterus and fallopian tubes.
- Laparoscopy: helps the doctor to see the inside of the abdomen. The doctor can see fibroids on the outside of the uterus and some inside the uterine wall with the laparoscope.
Imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans, may be used if there is need for more clarification. Some of these tests may be helpful in checking on the growth of the fibroid over time.