A doctor or nurse can sometimes feel fibroids during a routine pelvic examination. Ultrasound can be used to confirm the diagnosis, but this is not always necessary.

Uterine fibroids are often found during routine pelvic exams. You or your doctor may feel irregularities in the shape of your uterus, which could indicate that there are fibroids present. If you have symptoms of uterine fibroids or a history of fibroids in your family you will normally be sent for tests.

Ultrasound

In order to confirm that you have fibroids or to confirm the size of them your doctor may send you for an ultrasound. Ultrasounds use sound waves to get a picture of your uterus to confirm the diagnosis and to map and measure the size and location of your fibroids. A doctor or technician moves the ultrasound device (transducer) over your abdomen (transabdominal) or places it inside your vagina (transvaginal) to get images of your uterus.

Blood tests

If you are experiencing abnormal bleeding during your periods, your doctor may send you for other tests to investigate further. These might include a complete blood count (CBC) to determine if you have anemia which can be caused by excessive blood loss during your cycle and other blood tests to rule out bleeding disorders or thyroid problems.