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What women should know about uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids (also known as myomas or leiomyomas) are benign (non-cancerous) tumors that develop in the muscular tissue of the uterus. They can appear as single or multiple growths and vary in size. While they are not cancerous, fibroids can impact quality of life by causing symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pain, and infertility.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of fibroids is unclear, but a combination of factors is believed to contribute:

  • Hormonal Factors: Estrogen and progesterone stimulate fibroid growth.
  • Genetic Predisposition: A family history of fibroids increases the risk.
  • Environmental Factors: Obesity and delayed childbearing are known risk factors.

Types of Fibroids

Fibroids are classified based on their location:

  1. Subserosal Fibroids: Develop on the outer surface of the uterus.
  2. Intramural Fibroids: Found within the muscular wall of the uterus.
  3. Submucosal Fibroids: Grow beneath the uterine lining and may affect the uterine cavity.

Symptoms of Fibroids

 Fibroids may be asymptomatic or cause a range of symptoms depending on their size and location:

  • Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding.
  • Pelvic pain or pressure.
  • Infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss.
  • Pressure on the bladder or bowel, leading to frequent urination or constipation.

Fibroids and Fertility

  • Fibroids are found in 5-10% of women experiencing infertility.
  • Submucosal or large intramural fibroids (>4 cm) can impair fertility.
  • A fertility specialist can evaluate the impact of fibroids on conception and recommend appropriate treatment.

Fibroids During Pregnancy

  • Fibroids are present in 2-12% of pregnant women.
  • While most do not affect pregnancy, they can sometimes cause:
    • Pain or bleeding.
    • Fetal malpresentation or increased risk of cesarean delivery.
    • Rarely, preterm labor or miscarriage.

Treatment of Fibroids

Treatment depends on the size, location, and symptoms of the fibroids, as well as the woman’s desire for future fertility.

  1. Hormonal Therapy:
    • Provides temporary relief by reducing estrogen levels.
    • Common medications include GnRH analogs, oral contraceptives, and progestins, though they may have side effects (e.g., osteoporosis, hot flashes, irregular bleeding).
  2. Surgical Options:
    • Myomectomy:
      • Abdominal (Open): Suitable for large or multiple fibroids.
      • Laparoscopic: Minimally invasive with shorter recovery time.
    • Hysterectomy: Recommended for women who do not wish to preserve fertility.
  3. Monitoring:
    • Asymptomatic fibroids often require no treatment but regular follow-up to monitor growth or symptom changes.

Our Commitment

At our clinic, we provide personalized care for the diagnosis and management of uterine fibroids, focusing on symptom relief and preserving fertility when desired.