
Fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop in or on the walls of a woman’s uterus. They are also known as leiomyomas or myomas.
While fibroids are very common, affecting as many as 70% of women at some point in their lives, many women are not aware they have them because they often do not cause noticeable symptoms.
However, for some women, fibroids can cause a range of symptoms and complications, including heavy periods, pelvic pain, and fertility issues.
Here’s everything you need to know about fibroids.
Symptoms of fibroids
Fibroids can cause a range of symptoms, depending on their size, number, and location. Some of the most common symptoms of fibroids include:
– Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
– Painful periods
– Painful intercourse
– Pelvic pain
– Frequent urination
– Constipation
– Bloating and discomfort in the abdomen
– Infertility
Types of fibroids
Fibroids are categorized based on their location in the uterus. The different types of fibroids include:
– Intramural fibroids: these are the most common type of fibroids and grow within the muscular wall of the uterus.
– Subserosal fibroids: these grow on the outer wall of the uterus and can become very large.
– Submucosal fibroids: these grow just underneath the lining of the uterus and can cause heavy bleeding and fertility issues.
– Pedunculated fibroids: these grow on a stalk-like structure on the outside of the uterus.
Causes of fibroids
The exact cause of fibroids is not known. However, research has identified several risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing fibroids, including:
– Genetics: fibroids tend to run in families, so if your mother or sister has fibroids, you may be more likely to develop them as well.
– Hormones: estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle, can stimulate the growth of fibroids. This is why fibroids tend to develop during the childbearing years when hormone levels are high.
– Age: fibroids typically stop growing or shrink after menopause, as hormone levels decrease.
Diagnosis and treatment
If you are experiencing symptoms of fibroids, your doctor may perform a pelvic exam or an ultrasound to detect the presence of fibroids.
Treatment options for fibroids depend on the severity of your symptoms and your desire to maintain fertility. Options may include:
– Watchful waiting: if you have no symptoms, or mild symptoms, your doctor may recommend simply monitoring the fibroids for any changes.
– Medications: hormonal medications may be prescribed to help shrink the fibroids and reduce symptoms.
– Surgery: if the fibroids are causing significant symptoms or fertility problems, surgery (such as a myomectomy or hysterectomy) may be recommended.
Conclusion
In conclusion, fibroids are a common occurrence among women of childbearing age and should not be a cause for undue worry. However, it is important to monitor any fibroids that are present and seek medical consultation if they begin to grow or cause discomfort.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as heavy periods, pressure in the pelvic area or lower back pain, it is important to speak to your doctor about whether you may have fibroids. There are a number of treatment options available depending on the severity of the fibroids, including medication, surgical procedures and ablation techniques.
Overall, by being knowledgeable about fibroids and seeking medical advice as needed, you can ensure that you are as healthy as possible and that any potential issues are addressed and treated in a timely manner. Remember, taking care of your health is essential in order to live a happy and fulfilling life.
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