Uterine Fibroids: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumours that grow around the walls of the uterus. They occur during women's reproductive years and are mostly harmless. However, the excessive growth of fibroids can interfere with a woman's activities, such as heavy bleeding during periods, pain, and other complications during pregnancy.

It is therefore important to know about these growths, their symptoms, causes, and treatment options available.

What are Uterine Fibroids?

Fibroids, also known as Liomyomas, are benign tumours that grow from the uterine muscle. They vary in size. Some women can even develop multiple fibroids, which widen the uterus.

There are different types of fibroids according to their localisation:

• Submucosal fibroids grow at the sub-endometrial layer of the uterus and can protrude into the uterine cavity. It typically gives rise to heavy bleeding.
• Intramural fibroids grow in the uterine walls; they are the most common by far.
• Subserosal fibroids grow on the outer layer of the uterus, sometimes pushing against other organs.
• Pedunculated fibroids: This type is not so common, attaching the uterus with a stalk or stem

Each type poses its own set of challenges; however, most of these are asymptomatic and cause no major health concerns.

Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

Symptoms of uterine fibroids can range from mild to severe, depending on their size and location.

• Heavy menstrual bleeding is a common symptom, sometimes accompanied by prolonged periods. Many women also experience pelvic pain or a feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen.
• If fibroids press against the bladder, you might face difficulty emptying the bladder. Fibroids near the rectum may lead to constipation or discomfort during bowel movements.
• Some women also report back pain or pain during intercourse, which can happen when fibroids are large.

Interestingly, not everyone experiences symptoms. Many women with fibroids don’t even know they have them until a routine check-up. However, if your symptoms become bothersome or affect your daily activities, it’s important to consult a doctor.

Causes and Risk Factors of Uterine Fibroids

The exact cause of uterine fibroids has not yet been determined. Researchers, however, believe hormones play a major part in their cause. Your menstrual cycle is regulated by two hormones: oestrogen and progesterone. These two hormones are also shown to be stimulants for fibroids. That is why fibroids tend to shrink after a woman reaches menopause, thereby reducing the hormone level in her body.

Then there is the matter of genetics. If your mother or sister has had fibroids, then you have a greater chance of suffering from the condition, too.

How are Uterine Fibroids Diagnosed?

Diagnosing fibroids usually begins with a conversation about your symptoms. If needed, the doctor consults a pelvic exam. During the exam, if the doctor notices changes in the size or shape of your uterus or has an inclination toward the presence of fibroids, they suggest further tests. Tests like ultrasounds or MRIs are often recommended.

An ultrasound is a simple and non-invasive way to get a clear picture of the uterus and any growths. In some cases, an MRI may be used to provide more detailed images, especially when planning surgery.

Regular gynaecological check-ups are very important and highly recommended, even if you don’t have symptoms. Early detection of fibroids can help prevent complications and guide effective treatment.

Complications Associated with Uterine Fibroids

While fibroids are non-dangerous, they can cause complications if left untreated for a long time. Heavy menstrual bleeding can lead to anaemia, leaving you feeling tired and weak. Large fibroids may put pressure on nearby organs, causing pain and other issues.

The fibroids can also interfere with the implantation or increase the risks of miscarriages or preterm birth. Proper management or treatment of these complications early on is essential in keeping a woman’s body healthy.

Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids

The treatment for uterine fibroids depends on the severity of the conditions.

For mild symptoms, medications can help. Hormonal therapy, such as birth control pills or hormone-releasing IUDs, can manage heavy bleeding. Pain relievers can also help to ease discomfort. For severe cases, GnRH agonists may shrink fibroids temporarily, often before surgery. It’s better to consult a doctor and check with the treatment plan.

Home Remedies for of Uterine Fibroids Treatment

Making healthy lifestyle choices can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being. A balanced diet plays a key role. Add healthy options like lentils, spinach, or grilled chicken to your diet.

Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, which can slow fibroid growth. Activities like yoga or brisk walking are effective in keeping one healthy. Stress affects hormone levels, so practices like meditation or deep breathing exercises can be helpful.

While these changes will not eliminate fibroids, they can certainly make symptoms more manageable and improve quality of life.

When to See a Doctor

It’s important to consult a doctor if you experience persistent pelvic pain, heavy or prolonged bleeding, or difficulty with urination or bowel movements. Difficulty conceiving or recurrent miscarriages may also warrant an evaluation for fibroids. Don’t wait—early diagnosis can make treatment more effective.

Conclusion

Uterine fibroids are common, but they don’t have to take over your life. From advanced diagnostic tools to minimally invasive treatments, our team of experts provides comprehensive care tailored to your needs. If you’re experiencing symptoms or want to discuss your options, book a consultation with us today.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can uterine fibroids affect pregnancy?

Yes, it is possible. Fibroids may cause complications in terms of infertility, miscarriage, and the baby having to be delivered before term.

2. Are fibroids cancerous?

No, fibroids are benign growths, and very rarely do they become cancerous.

3. What size of fibroid requires treatment?

Treatment is usually recommended if fibroids cause severe symptoms or grow larger than 5 cm.

4. Which doctor is best for treating fibroids?

A gynaecologist or a fibroid specialist can provide the best care for diagnosis and treatment.

5. Can diet impact fibroid growth?

A healthy diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms, but it will not eliminate fibroids.

6. When to worry about fibroids?

Seek medical attention if you experience heavy bleeding, heavy pain or difficulty conceiving.

7. Can a woman live with fibroids?

Indeed, many women have fibroids in which they live symptom-free. Nonetheless, it needs careful monitoring so it doesn't grow or become problematic.

8. What size fibroids need surgery?

Fibroids of more than 5-6 cm in size may be suggested to be operated on also where such symptoms as pain or heavy bleeding significantly occur.

9. Can fibroids go without surgery?

Small-sized fibroids that do not cause symptoms should not be treated, but follow-up check-ups are recommended to monitor their sizes and impact.