Uterine fibroids are uterus growths that occur during the reproductive phase of a woman’s life. These are non cancerous growths and are also known as fibromyomas. They are usually not associated with increasing the risk of cancer. Many women are unaware that they have this condition because they do not experience any symptoms. Uterine fibroids may be discovered while performing an ultrasound or a pelvic exam. Fibroids can range in size from very tiny to bulky masses. They can occur singular or in multiples.
A woman having uterine fibroids may experience symptoms like pelvic pain, pelvic pressure, heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, urge to urinate frequently, constipation, discomfort while urinating and pain in legs and back. The location of the fibroid can enhance certain symptoms. The subserosal fibroids are the kind which project to the outside of the uterus can put pressure on the bladder resulting in urinary problems. If the fibroids bulge out from the back of the uterus, it can cause constipation or backache. Submucosal fibroids are the kinds which grow into the inner cavity of the uterus causing heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding. Fibroids usually do not cause acute pain when it begins to die. One should visit the doctor if you experience pelvic pain which does not go away or pain during lovemaking.
The factors responsible for the cause of uterine fibroids are as below:
1. Hormones: The two hormones namely estrogen and progesterone stimulate the development of the lining of the uterus which prepares it for pregnancy. These hormones promote the growth of uterine fibroids.
2. Genetic Alterations: Fibroids contain alterations in genes.
3. Chemicals: Chemicals that aid in maintaining tissues may affect the growth of fibroids.
4. Heredity: If your close relative has fibroids, you are also likely to have it.
Fibroids in pregnant women raise the risk of miscarriage and premature labor. The doctor may perform some tests or ultrasound to diagnose the condition of uterine fibroids. There is no specific treatment for fibroids and many options are available like the following:
1. Medications: There are medications available that help to regulate the menstrual cycle. These medications may shrink the fibroids. The medications include Gn-RH agonists which stimulates the ovaries to produce estrogen and progesterone. When taken as therapy, Gn-RH agonist produces opposite effect. A progestin releasing IUD can aid in bringing relief from heavy bleeding. This doesn't shrink or eliminate the fibroids; it only helps in reducing the symptoms. Androgen is the male hormone and when given as a therapy it helps to reduce the symptoms. Oral contraceptives can also aid in controlling heavy bleeding.
2. Hysterectomy: The process of removing the uterus is called hysterectomy. This is a permanent treatment for uterine fibroids. But the major problem associated with this surgery of total hysterectomy is the inability to have children.
3. Myomectomy: In this surgical procedure, the fibroids are removed not the uterus. This is a better option if you wish to have children in future. The risk of reoccurrence of fibroids is present in this procedure. For multiple fibroids, abdominal myomectomy may be done and for small fibroids, laparoscopic myomectomy may be performed.
4. Ultra sound surgery: FUS or forced Ultrasound Surgery may be performed.
5. Myolysis: In this an electric current is used to destroy the fibroid.
The choice of treatment may depend of your symptoms and other factors.
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