Fibroids are abnormal growths that form in or on a woman’s uterus. Often benign, these tumors can vary in size; larger ones may cause significant abdominal pain and heavy menstrual bleeding. In some instances, fibroids present no symptoms, making them difficult to detect without medical testing. The exact cause of fibroids remains unclear, though they are not typically cancerous. Despite their potential to cause discomfort, many women with fibroids experience minimal to no disruption in their daily lives.
Fibroids are popular by these following names:
- fibromas
- myomas
- leiomyomas
- uterine fibroids
- uterine myomas
Different kinds of fibroids
There are different types of fibroids which differ based on their location in or on the uterus.
- Cervical fibroids: Cervical fibroids generally develop on the cervix, which connects uterus to your vagina.
- Intramural fibroids: These are the most common type that appears in muscular wall of your uterus. Intramural fibroids can get bigger and stretch the uterus.
- Pedunculated fibroids: They can develop a stem, a slender base for supporting the tumor. When they do, they are called pedunculated fibroids.
- Submucosal fibroids: These kinds of tumors generally develop in the myometrium, the middle muscle layer of uterus. Submucosal tumors are not common like other types.
- Subserosal fibroids: Subserosal fibroids usually form on the outside of your uterus, which is known as serosa. They may grow large enough to make the uterus appear bigger on one side.
Symptoms of fibroids:
The fibroid symptoms are the following:
- enlargement or swelling of your abdomen
- fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen
- heavy bleeding between or during the periods
- increased menstrual cramping
- increased urination
- menstrual clots
- menstruation which lasts longer than usual
- pain in the lower back or pelvis
- pain at the time of intercourse
Causes of fibroids
It is not known why the fibroids develop. There are different factors which influence their formation:
- Hormones: The ovaries produce progesterone and estrogen. These hormones lead uterine lining to regenerate during each menstrual cycle and stimulate fibroid growth.
- Family record: Fibroids might be there in the family. If any of your family member has a past history of this condition, you may develop it too.
People who are at higher risk of getting fibroids will have one or more of these risk factors:
- family history of fibroids
- are 30 years old or more than that
- more body weight
People who are African American are at higher risk of getting fibroids than people of other ethnicities.
Fibroids versus cysts
Ovarian cysts are another kind of growth that develops within your female reproductive system. Such fluid-filled sacs are usually non-cancerous and generally asymptomatic like fibroids. When symptoms do take place, they can lead to bloating, changes to menstrual cycle and pelvic pain.
Relation between fibroids and pregnancy
Pregnancy increases the production of estrogen and progesterone of your body. Fibroids might develop and grow rapidly when you are pregnant. People who are pregnant less likely develop fibroids than the ones who have not conceived. As per studies, fibroids affect nearly 20% to 40% of all women and only 0.1% to 3.9% of pregnant women.
Diagnosing fibroids
You will need to visit a gynaecologist and conduct pelvic examination for proper diagnosis. They have the condition, shape and size of your uterus during the examination. You may also have to perform imaging tests and the ultrasound uses sound waves of higher frequency. This can help to create images of your uterus on the screen. It will let the doctor to view internal structures of the uterus and fibroids.
A transvaginal ultrasound where ultrasound wand gets inserted into the vagina, may give clearer images as it is closer to the uterus during the procedure. A pelvic MRI is in-depth test that creates images of your ovaries, uterus and other pelvic organs.
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Treating fibroids
Treating fibroids involves a personalized approach. Your doctor will consider your age, the fibroids’ size, and your overall health to develop an effective treatment plan. This may include a combination of different therapies tailored to your specific needs.
Natural treatments and home remedies
Natural treatments and home remedies might leave a positive effect on fibroids, including:
- massage
- acupuncture
- exercises like yoga
- apply heat for cramps
Dietary changes may be of great help too which include:
Avoid high calorie foods and meats. Rather, opt for:
- green vegetables
- foods and drinks high in flavonoids
- green tea
- cold-water fish like salmon and tuna
Managing stress levels and aiming for moderate weight when you are overweight can be of huge benefit.
Surgery
The surgery removes large growths or multiple growths and the process is called myomectomy. During an abdominal myomectomy, surgeon prepares a large incision in the abdomen for accessing the uterus and removing the fibroids. A myomectomy may be done laparoscopically. During a laparoscopic procedure, the surgeon creates small incisions and inserts surgical tools as well as a camera through the incisions. If the condition worsens or there is no other treatment, the surgeon may conduct a hysterectomy. This means you won’t be able to give birth in the fibroids.
Outlook for people having fibroids
Your outlook depends on the location and size of fibroids. They may not require treatment when they are small or do not produce any symptoms. If you are pregnant and have fibroids, the doctor will evaluate your condition thoroughly. There are cases when fibroids do not cause problems at the time of pregnancy. Consult with the healthcare professional when you want to conceive and have fibroids.
Thus, fibroids are common and noncancerous growths often develop in the uterus during the reproductive years of a woman. Though they may differ in number, location and size, many women with fibroids do not have any symptoms. For the ones who experience symptoms like fertility problems, heavy menstrual bleeding or pelvic pain, the impact on quality of life might be significant.
It is important for women to undergo routine gynaecological check-ups and to discuss any symptoms with the healthcare provider to ensure proper diagnosis and management of fibroids. With the right fibroid treatment in London, women having it will be able to enjoy fulfilling and healthy lives.
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