Uterine fibroids

What is a fibroid?

Smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue combine to form tumors known as fibroids, which form in the uterus. According to estimates, 70 to 80 percent of women may experience fibroid development at some point in their lives; however, not all women will experience symptoms or need medical attention.

The majority of fibroids are benign or noncancerous, which is their most significant characteristic. However, while some fibroids develop into cancer, benign fibroids cannot do so.

Rarely do fibroids develop into cancer. This makes it appropriate for women who are symptom-free to choose observation over treatment.

Even when a woman has many fibroids, research demonstrates that they develop at various rates. They can vary in size from a pea to, on rare occasions, a watermelon. Even if fibroids reach that size, we give prompt and efficient treatment to bring about comfort.

You should be aware of the following important information concerning uterine fibroids in addition to knowing what a fibroid is:

• The most frequent malignancy in the reproductive system is uterine fibroids.
• The most vulnerable group of women to fibroids is those who are approaching menopause.
• Most frequently, fibroids are discovered during a normal pelvic exam.
• Heavy and protracted periods, bleeding between periods, and pelvic pain are possible symptoms.
• There are many different types of treatments available.

Types of fibroids

The sorts of fibroids can now be discussed since you are aware of what a fibroid is. Treatment advice can vary depending on the type of fibroids as well as their size and number. The following are the three primary forms of fibroids:

• Subserosal fibroids: These are the most common fibroids. They can push outside of the uterus into the pelvis. Subserosal fibroids can grow large at times and sometimes have a stalk that attaches to the uterus (pedunculated fibroid).
• Intramural fibroids: These fibroids develop in the muscular wall of the uterus.
• Submucosal fibroids: These fibroids are uncommon. They can grow into the open space inside the uterus and may also include a stalk.

What causes fibroids?

Studies show there may be a hereditary component to uterine fibroids, although the exact etiology is unknown. There is no specific external exposure that can lead to a woman developing fibroids.

Who is at risk for uterine fibroids?

Various factors can increase the risk of developing fibroids:

Age: Fibroids become more common as women age, especially during their 30s and 40s and up to menopause. After menopause, fibroids are much less likely to form and usually shrink if they’re present.

Family history: Having a family member with fibroids increases your risk. If a woman's mother had fibroids, her risk of having them is about three times higher than average.

Ethnic origin: African-American women are more likely to develop fibroids than other ethnicities .

Obesity: Women who are overweight are at higher risk for fibroids. For very heavy women, the risk is two to three times greater than average.

What are the symptoms of uterine fibroids?

The majority of women with fibroids won't have any symptoms at all. Large or numerous fibroids, however, can result in the following signs and symptoms: 

• Heavy or prolonged periods
• Bleeding between periods
• Pelvic pain and pressure
• Frequent urination
• Low back pain
• Pain during intercourse
• Difficulty getting pregnant

How are uterine fibroids diagnosed?

Fibroids are typically discovered during a physical examination. During an abdominal or pelvic exam, your doctor might feel a solid, irregular (often painless) bump.

A diagnosis can be verified through scans. The two primary alternatives are these tests:

Ultrasound: The most popular scan for fibroids is ultrasound. Fibroids are detected using sound waves at frequencies (pitch) that are substantially higher than those heard by humans. To scan the uterus and ovaries, a doctor or technician puts an ultrasound probe on the abdomen or into the vagina. It is generally accurate, quick, and easy. To get decent outcomes, though, it depends on the doctor or technician's experience and expertise.  For other disorders, such as adenomyosis, additional testing, such MRI, may be more beneficial.

MRI: Magnets and radio waves are used in this imaging test to create images. It provides a road map of the size, quantity, and location of the fibroids for your healthcare professional. Additionally, we can distinguish between adenomyosis, which is occasionally misdiagnosed as fibroids. MRI is used to support a diagnosis and assist in deciding which treatments are most effective for you. MRI might be a better choice for disorders like adenomyosis that are connected to it.

Other tests for uterine fibroids

If there are unusual conditions or if doctors are unable to determine the cause of your discomfort, you could require extra testing:

Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): For women who are having problems getting pregnant, doctors frequently use an HSG. It examines the fallopian tubes and the interior of the uterus (uterine cavity). A little tube called a catheter is inserted into the uterus, and the doctor gently injects a specific contrast dye while taking X-rays.

Hysterosonogram: Using a hysterosonogram, medical professionals can view the uterus' interior. They insert a tiny catheter into the uterus, inject water, and take a series of ultrasound pictures all at the same time. The test can identify uterine polyps or intracavitary fibroids, which can lead to significant bleeding.

Laparoscopy: A doctor makes a small incision in or close to the navel to perform a laparoscopy. A long, thin instrument called a laparoscope is then inserted into the pelvis and abdomen by the physician. The laparoscope has a camera and a powerful light. It enables your doctor to see the uterus and the structures around it. Your doctor can analyze the image to see if you have endometriosis, a disorder that can cause pelvic pain.

Hysteroscopy: A medical professional uses a long, thin tool with a camera and light to check for potential abnormalities inside the uterus. The medical professional inserts the device through the cervix and vagina into the uterus. No cut is required. Using this method, the doctor can search for endometrial polyps or fibroids inside the uterine cavity. During this treatment, your doctor may also remove some forms of fibroids.

How are uterine fibroids treated?

Your doctor may first advise observation because most fibroids cease growing and may even decrease as women get closer to menopause. Some fibroids, however, may necessitate more aggressive treatment, depending on:

• Extent of symptoms
• Your age
• Your fertility goals
• Number and size of the fibroids
• Any previous fibroids treatments
• Other health conditions present

Learn about Uterine Artery Embolization.

What are the complications of uterine fibroids?

It is unusual for fibroids to have serious negative health effects. But excessive bleeding in women can cause serious anemia, or a deficiency of red blood cells.

Rarely, big fibroids may put pressure on the bladder and the ureter, the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. Kidney injury can result from this pressure. Infertility and frequent pregnancy losses are other issues.