Fibroids

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths consisting of muscle and fibrous tissue located inside the uterus and varying in size.
Symptoms of uterine fibroids

Fibroids in the uterus do not always have symptoms. However, common symptoms of uterine fibroids may include:

  • Heavy menstrual bleeding, sometimes with the passage of blood clots
  • Longer than normal menstrual periods
  • Pelvic cramping or pain during periods
  • Bleeding between periods
  • Sensation of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen
  • Need to urinate more frequently
  • Pain during sex

Fibroids can develop anywhere in the uterus, and more than one may develop over time. Large fibroids that distort the shape of the uterus or uterine cavity most frequently affect fertility, prohibiting an embryo from implanting

Fibroids are quite common in people of reproductive age, affecting 85% of women. Most Fibroids usually go undetected and cause no symptoms, though Fibroids can cause various symptoms, including abnormal vaginal bleeding and abdominal and pelvic pain….

Fibroids are named depending on their location:
  • Subserous Fibroids: Grow in the muscle of the uterus, expanding outside the uterus into the pelvic area
  • Intramural Fibroids: Grow within the muscle of the uterus
  • Submucosal Fibroids: Grow towards the inner wall and expand in the endometrial cavity

Generally speaking, Fibroids, no matter their type, grow slowly. However, among many factors, high levels of Estrogen can make these Fibroids grow faster.

Typically, Fibroids are benign tumors. They could, although rarely, become cancerous, with this only happening between 1 in 500 and 1 in 2000 people.

As mentioned, most people with Uterine Fibroids experience no symptoms. However, 1 in 3 people with Fibroids experience symptoms, mostly related to the size and the location of the Fibroids.

These symptoms include:
  • Heavy bleeding during periods with blood clots and cramps
  • Abdominal or lower back pain
  • Frequent need to urinate
  • Constipation
  • Deep pain during sex
  • Infertility or difficulty conceiving

Any person of reproductive age can get Fibroids from puberty to menopause. Because their growth is related to the hormone Estrogen, Fibroids can potentially shrink away after the onset of Menopause.

To diagnose Fibroids, your doctor will ask for a medical history and a pelvic exam. Large Fibroids can be detected through vaginal or abdominal examinations.

Tests to detect Fibroids may include:
  • Blood tests to detect anemia associated with heavy periods, a symptom of Fibroids
  • Ultrasound
  • MRI.

Treating your Fibroids will depend on the symptoms associated with this condition. It also depends on their size, location, and future fertility plans.

Most of the time, Fibroids can be left untouched and just monitored. You may be prescribed medication to treat symptoms of pain or heavy periods. Other times, Fibroids might need to be surgically removed. Based on your evaluation, this is a shared decision you can make with your doctor.