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Guide to Uterine Fibroids Symptoms, Causes and Risks.
Navia, a 39-year-old teacher, started experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding and chronic lower back pain. She assumed it was due to stress and long hours on her feet. But she continued experiencing these, and they affected her daily routine. After visiting her gynaecologist, Navia was informed she has uterine fibroids.
Navia’s experience highlights the need for and importance of being informed about fibroids. In this blog, we will learn what uterine fibroids are, their symptoms, causes, and effects on the body, and when to see a doctor.
What are Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are common growths of the uterus, and they appear during the reproductive years. Uterine Fibroids are non-cancerous and are not linked with a higher risk of cancer in the uterus either. They are also called leiomyomas (lie-o-my-O-muhs) or myomas.
Fibroids vary in number and size. You can have a single fibroid or more than one. Some of these growths are too small to see with the eyes. Others can grow to the size of a grapefruit or larger.
Many people have uterine fibroids sometime during their lives. But as they often cause no symptoms, they are hard to notice.
Types of uterine fibroids-
There are different types of uterine fibroids depending on where they’re located and how they attach. Specific types of uterine fibroids include:
Intramural fibroids: These fibroids are embedded into the muscular wall of your uterus. They’re the most common type.
Submucosal fibroids: These fibroids grow under the inner lining of your uterus.
Subserosal fibroids: This type of fibroid grows under the lining of the outer surface of your uterus. They can become quite large and grow into your pelvis.
There are variations of submucosal or subserosal fibroids named as pedunculated submucosal fibroids and pedunculated subserosal fibroids.
The least common type, these fibroids attach to your uterus with a stalk or stem. They’re often described as mushroom-like because they have a stalk and then a wider top.
Who is at risk of getting affected by Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine Fibroids may affect any woman of reproductive age, but there are certain factors that might increase the risk of getting affected by this condition:
Age: Mostly women between the age of 40-50 are diagnosed with this condition.
Family History: A woman whose mother or sister is affected by fibroids is more likely to develop them.
Ethnicity: African American women are more likely to develop fibroids and tend to have more severe symptoms.
Obesity: Women who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of developing fibroids.
Diet: A diet high in red meat and low in green vegetables, fruit, and dairy can increase the risk.
Prevalence and Importance of Education
Fibroids are incredibly common, and many will not experience symptoms. Given their prevalence, it’s important for women to be educated about uterine fibroids, their symptoms, and treatment options. Awareness will lead to early diagnosis and better management and also reduce the risk of labour complications.
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids-
Many women might not experience the symptoms, but others might face a range of symptoms, such as-.
Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during periods can lead to anaemia.
Prolonged Menstrual Periods: Periods that last more than a week.
Constipation: Fibroids pressing on the rectum can lead to bowel issues.
Backache or Leg Pains: If fibroids press on nerves, they can cause pain in the back or legs.
Frequent Urination: The need to urinate often is caused by fibroids pressing on the bladder.
Difficulty Emptying the Bladder: A sensation that the bladder doesn’t empty completely.
Pelvic Pain and Pressure: Persistent pain or pressure in the pelvic region.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience any of the following, consulting a doctor is important-
– Heavy or prolonged periods
– Severe or persistent pelvic pain or pressure
– Difficulty with urination or bowel movements
How Uterine Fibroids Affect the Body
Uterine Fibroids might impact women’s bodies in various ways:
Reproductive Issues: This condition interferes with fertility and pregnancy and also increases the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and complications during labour.
Anaemia: Long term heavy bleeding may lead to anaemia and result in fatigue and weakness.
Pain and Discomfort: Continuous pelvic pain and pressure affects the quality of life.
Bladder and Bowel Problems: Large fibroids at times press on the bladder and rectum and might cause urinary and bowel issues.
The Possible Causes Of Uterine Fibroids-
The exact cause of uterine fibroids is unknown, but there are several factors that might contribute to their development-
Hormones: Hormones such as estrogen and progesterone that regulate the menstrual cycle and promote the growth of fibroids may also cause this condition.
Genetics: Genetic changes at times, play role in the development of fibroids.
Growth Factors: Substances that help the body maintain the tissues also influence the growth of fibroid.
Uterine fibroids is a common condition that impacts a woman’s health and life significantly. Awareness of this condition and its risk factors and symptoms will help avoid potential complications. If you experience the symptoms of uterine fibroids, seek medical advice and manage the condition effectively.
FAQs
How large do uterine fibroids need to be before being surgically removed?
There isn’t a definitive size of a fibroid that would automatically mean it needs to be removed. Your healthcare provider will determine if surgery is necessary based on your symptoms. For example, fibroids the size of a small marble may still cause excessive bleeding depending on their location. Your healthcare provider can discuss symptoms that might require surgical intervention.
What happens if fibroids go untreated?
If you don’t have symptoms, treatment for fibroids may not be necessary. If you have large fibroids or your symptoms are causing you pain and discomfort, getting treatment may be the best option. Only you and your provider can decide the best course of treatment or if treatment is necessary.
Will fibroids go away on their own?
Fibroids can shrink in some people after menopause. This happens because of a decrease in hormones. When the fibroids shrink, your symptoms may go away. Small fibroids may not need treatment if they aren’t causing any symptoms.
Do fibroids make you tired?
Feeling tired isn’t a common symptom of uterine fibroids. However, it’s a common symptom of anaemia, which can occur when you lose too much blood. Talk to a healthcare provider if you feel excessively tired so they can determine the cause.
Do fibroids make your stomach big?
Yes, it’s possible that large uterine fibroids can cause your stomach to bloat or appear larger.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information is strictly for informative purposes. It is not intended to be used in lieu of professional medical advice, inclusive of diagnosis or treatment. It is strongly advised that you seek a doctor’s medical advice on any treatment or medical condition that you learn about.
