Uterine Fibroids : Causes, Symptoms, Risk Factors and Treatment
What are Uterine Fibroids?
Fibroid tumours are noncancerous growths that develop on the uterus’ muscular wall. They can be microscopic or large enough to fill the entire abdominal cavity, and there are often several at once. They can be as large as a full-term pregnancy in some cases. Women of all ages can be affected by this condition, but women in their 40s and 50s are the most affected.
There are 3 different locations: intramural, submucosal, and subserosal uterine fibroids.
What are the symptoms of Uterine Fibroids?
While not cancerous, they can cause problems. Depending on size, location and amount, common fibroid symptoms include:
- Pelvic pain and pressure
- Excessive bleeding, prolonged periods and passage of clots, anemia
- Abdominal swelling
- Bladder pressure, leading to frequent urination
- Pressure on the bowel, leading to constipation and bloating
- Pregnancy complications.
How are Uterine Fibroids diagnosed?
Your doctor will recommend an ultrasound examination of your uterus based on your symptoms.
Occasionally, fibroids are discovered during routine ultrasounds performed as part of routine health checks.
Is it necessary to have surgery for all fibroids?
No, Surgery is not required for all fibroids. Fibroids can be treated in a variety of ways. Some fibroids that are not in the fibroid’s wall and are not causing any problems can be left alone.
We can wait until menopause if we are nearing menopause because they regress after menopause.
Are all fibroids treated with surgery?
Fibroids can be managed in a variety of ways. Surgery isn’t necessary for all fibroids. There is no need for treatment. Some fibroids can be left untreated if they are not in the fibroid’s wall and are not causing any problems. We can wait until menopause if we are approaching menopause.
What medication can be taken to treat Fibroids?
The majority of women ask for fibroids-reduction drugs. Unfortunately, such an option does not exist. Until menopause, medications can help reduce heavy bleeding and keep the fibroid at bay. We also have anti-fibroid medications that can be used for a short period of time to improve haemoglobin levels before surgery. These medications are liver toxic and should not be used for long periods of time.
Fibroids can also be shrunk with injections, but once the injections are stopped, they grow back. Your doctor may advise them before surgery to buy time for your haemoglobin to improve.
Can Fibroids be treated without surgery?
Nonsurgical options for Fibroids include uterine artery embolization and MRI-guided ultrasound ablation. If fibroids are causing heavy periods, are too large in size, or are causing pressure, you may need a Myomectomy (Fibroid removal) or a Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus).
Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery are two minimally invasive surgical options.
About Author –
Dr. Sarada M,
Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Yashoda Hospitals - Hyderabad
DGO, DNB (Obs & Gyn), FRCOG (UK)
