Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause symptoms like heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and fertility issues. Understanding the different types, risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for managing this common condition.
Types of different Uterine fibroids:
Sub-mucosal fibroids
Sub-mucosal fibroids occur inside the myometrium. They are the type that causes heavy bleeding and even fertility problems. However, sub-mucosal fibroids are not so common.
Intramural fibroids
Intramural fibroids occur inside the endometrium. They can become larger and even stretch the uterus. Intramural fibroids are the most common type of uterine fibroids.
Sub-serosal fibroids
Sub-serosal fibroids occur outside of the uterus, in the serosa.
Pedunculated fibroids
Pedunculated fibroids occur in cases when the serosa develops a slender base that supports the tumor. These fibroids are sometimes seen even outside of the vagina.
Risk Factors of Uterine Fibroids Formation
The real cause of uterine fibroids is not known, however, there are some risk factors that lead to their formation, such as:
Family history
Women who have sisters, a mother, or a grandmother with uterine fibroids are more likely to develop uterine fibroids.
Hormones
Estrogen and progesterone are the hormones that affect the uterine lining every month, helping it regenerate during each menstrual cycle. Hormonal imbalance can stimulate the growth of uterine fibroids.
Pregnancy
During pregnancy, the production of estrogen and progesterone increases. These hormonal changes lead to the rapid growth of uterine fibroids during pregnancy.
Women who are at greater risk of developing uterine fibroids include those who suffer from obesity, have family members with uterine fibroids, have given birth in the past, and those over the age of 30.
Signs and Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
Signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids will depend on their size, number, and location inside the uterus. Uterine fibroids can be asymptomatic when small. However, larger and multiple fibroids may cause:
- Heavy bleeding between or during menstrual periods
- Blood clots in menstrual bleeding
- Menstrual cramping
- Menstrual periods that last longer than usual
- Lower back pain and pelvic pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Pressure or fullness in the lower abdomen
- Increased urination
- Swelling or enlargement of the abdomen
How Are Uterine Fibroids Diagnosed?
Uterine fibroids are diagnosed through:
Pelvic examination
Ultrasound
Pelvic MRI
How Are Uterine Fibroids Treated?
The treatment of uterine fibroids will depend on whether they are symptomatic or not. Small and asymptomatic uterine fibroids are only monitored, while larger, multiple, and symptomatic fibroids are treated. Treatment options for uterine fibroids include:
Medications
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists are used to balance estrogen and progesterone levels. These medications cause uterine fibroids to shrink and stop heavy menstrual periods. Pain relievers can ease the pain caused by uterine fibroids but will not shrink or eliminate them. Birth control pills can control heavy menstrual bleeding, but they do not shrink or eliminate the fibroids.
Surgery
Surgery is necessary when very large and multiple uterine fibroids are present. In these cases, a myomectomy is performed. This procedure can be done laparoscopically or laparotomically and involves removing the fibroids.
Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is necessary when no other treatment works and when a woman no longer wishes to have children.
Minimally invasive procedures
Minimally invasive procedures like the MyoSure procedure are now available for treating uterine fibroids. The MyoSure procedure involves inserting a slender camera inside the uterus, which allows for a good visualization of the inner uterus lining. During the procedure, a slender wand is also inserted to gently cut the fibroids into small pieces. These small pieces are then removed outside of the uterus. This procedure is especially recommended for women who want to have children in the future.
Do you suffer from uterine fibroids? Come to Century Medical and Dental Center for a consultation with one of our gynecologists.
More information: https://www.centurymedicaldental.com/
