Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids are muscular and fibrous tissue masses forming on the uterine wall.

Uterine fibroids, also known as fibromas, are benign tumors that develop in a woman's uterus. While they are usually not cancerous, they can cause a range of bothersome symptoms and affect a woman's quality of life, making regular check-ups with a Gynecologist important.

What Are Fibroids?

Fibroids are muscular and fibrous tissue masses forming on the uterine wall. They can vary greatly, from as small as a seed to as large as a melon. Although most women will develop fibroids at some point in their lives, many will not experience symptoms.

Symptoms

Many women with fibroids do not experience symptoms. However, when symptoms are present, they can include:

Prolonged menstrual periods and heavy bleeding.
Pain or pressure in the pelvis.
Frequent need to urinate.
Difficulty emptying the bladder completely.
Constipation.
Pain during intercourse.
In rare cases, infertility or complications during pregnancy.

Causes of Fibroids

Although the exact cause of fibroids remains unknown, several factors may contribute to their development:

Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone, which prepare the uterine lining for pregnancy each month, can promote the growth of fibroids.
Genetics: If your mother or sister had fibroids, you might have a higher risk of developing them.
Other factors: Age, race, dietary habits, and body weight can also influence the risk of developing fibroids.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for developing fibroids include:

Age: Women in their reproductive years are at higher risk.
Family history: Your risk increases if other family members have had fibroids.
Obesity: Women who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of developing fibroids.
Race: African American women are more likely to develop fibroids at an earlier age.

Diagnosis

Fibroids are usually diagnosed through a pelvic exam and confirmed with imaging tests such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or hysteroscopy. These tests help determine the size, location, and number of fibroids.

Treatment

Treatment for fibroids varies depending on the severity of symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, and the patient's desires, especially concerning future pregnancy. Treatment options include:

Active surveillance for small or asymptomatic fibroids.
Medications to manage symptoms such as pain and excessive bleeding.
Minimally invasive procedures like uterine artery embolization, endometrial ablation, or laparoscopic myomectomy.
Hysterectomy in cases where other treatments have not been effective, and the woman does not wish to have children in the future.

When Should I See a Doctor for Fibroids?

You should seek medical attention if you experience:

Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
Severe pelvic pain or pressure.
Symptoms that affect your quality of life.
Difficulty conceiving or complications during pregnancy.

Fibroids are common, but you don't have to live with discomfort or pain. If you're experiencing symptoms you believe could be caused by fibroids, we invite you to make an appointment with the ObGyn team at BlueNetHospitals. We're here to help you understand your options and provide the care you need. Remember, caring for your reproductive health is important to maintain your well-being.

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