What Are the Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids?

What Are the Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) tumors that typically develop in the uterus, often during the reproductive years. The size and number of fibroids can vary among women. They can range from very small, detectable only during routine exams, to very large, potentially filling the pelvic area.

But what are the symptoms of this case, and how are they treated? This article will discuss these aspects.

 Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

Most women with uterine fibroids do not experience symptoms. However, when symptoms do appear, they vary depending on fibroid’s location, size, and number.

Symptoms include:

• Heavy bleeding or severe pain during menstruation.
• Prolonged menstrual periods and increased frequency.
• Pain or pressure in the pelvic area.
• Frequent urination or difficulty urinating.
• Abdominal enlargement if the fibroid is large.
• Constipation.
• Abdominal or lower back pain.
• Pain during intercourse.

Locations of Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids are often categorized based on their location:

• Intramural Fibroids: These grow within the muscular wall of the uterus.
• Submucosal Fibroids: These grow inside the uterine cavity.
• Subserosal Fibroids: These form on the outer layer of the uterus.

When to See a Doctor

Consult a doctor if you experience:

• Persistent pelvic pain.
• Heavy menstrual bleeding or severe pain that limits daily activities.
• Spotting or bleeding between menstrual periods.
• Difficulty emptying the bladder.
• Persistent fatigue and weakness, which may be due to anemia (a low red blood cell count).

Causes of Uterine Fibroids

The exact cause of this case is not yet determined, but several factors may contribute:

• Genetic Changes: Most fibroids involve changes in genes different from those in normal uterine muscle cells.
• Female Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone, which promote the thickening of the uterine lining during each menstrual cycle, may also help fibroids grow.

 Other Risk Factors for Uterine Fibroids

Factors that may increase the likelihood of developing fibroids include:

• Early onset of menstruation.
• Vitamin D deficiency, particularly in individuals with darker skin.
• High consumption of red meat and low intake of green vegetables, fruits, or dairy products.
• Alcohol consumption.
• Family history of fibroids.

Diagnosing Uterine Fibroids

Diagnostic tests for confirming this case include:

• Ultrasound:This imaging technique captures images of the uterus, typically using either transvaginal or abdominal ultrasound. It helps determine the presence, location, and size of fibroids.
• MRI:Provides detailed images of fibroids and helps in determining the best treatment approach. An MRI may be suggested if the fibroid is large.

Treatment of Uterine Fibroids

Treatment options vary based on symptoms, desire for pregnancy, age, and fibroid location. Key treatment options include:

Watchful Waiting

If symptoms are mild or absent, a wait-and-see approach may be recommended.

Medications

To alleviate symptoms such as pain and bleeding, medications might be prescribed. These do not eliminate fibroids but may shrink them.

Medications include:

•  Birth Control Pills: Can reduce bleeding.
•  pain killers as NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen or naproxen): May relieve pain.
• GnRH Agonists: These medications block estrogen and progesterone, stopping menstrual cycles and shrinking fibroids. They can also improve anemia.
• Hormonal IUD: Can help control heavy bleeding and prevent pregnancy. It may not be suitable if fibroids are within the uterine cavity.

Surgery

For moderate to severe symptoms or large fibroids, surgical options include:

• Myomectomy (excision of fibroids) : Removes fibroids while preserving healthy tissue, often preferred for women wishing to become pregnant.
• Endometrial Ablation: Uses laser, electrical current, microwaves, or freezing to remove or destroy the uterine lining, stopping menstruation and preventing pregnancy.
• Uterine Artery Embolization: Blocks blood flow to fibroids by injecting gel or plastic particles into nearby blood vessels, causing fibroids to shrink.
• Hysterectomy: Removal of the entire uterus, the only way to completely eliminate fibroids. It is a major surgery but can be performed laparoscopically.

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 References:

1. Uterine fibroids – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic. (2023, September 15). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-causes/syc-20354288
2. Key, A. P. (2023, July 25). WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/women/uterine-fibroid/uterine-fibroids#1-6