Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that occur in the uterus and are most prevalent in women of childbearing age. Fibroids may differ in size and shape, but they are usually not dangerous and are not a direct threat to one’s health. However, depending on their size, location, and number, they can be uncomfortable, painful, or lead to other health problems. In this blog, we will explore what are uterine fibroids, their different types, causes, symptoms, and the best uterine fibroids remedies.
What are Uterine Fibroids?
As defined by NCBI, uterine fibroids are muscular, non-cancerous tumours that develop in the uterus wall. They are also called leiomyomas or myomas. These growths can be classified based on their location in the uterus and can occur in any of the layers of the uterine wall. Many women with fibroids may not even know they have the condition since the growths sometimes are asymptomatic. However, for others, uterine fibroids symptoms can create problems in daily activities and fertility.
Types of Uterine Fibroids
There are several types of uterine fibroids, each classified based on where they develop within the uterus:
Intramural fibroids
These are the most common type, developing within the muscular wall of the uterus. They may grow and make the uterus bigger than it should be, which may result in pelvic pain or pressure.
Subserosal fibroids
These fibroids develop on the outer surface of the uterine wall, and some extend into the pelvic cavity. Large subserosal fibroids may exert pressure on organs in close contact with the uterus, such as the bladder or rectum.
Submucosal fibroids
This type arises under the inner lining of the uterus and can extend into the uterine cavity. They occur less frequently but can cause significant menstrual bleeding and problems with fertility.
Pedunculated fibroids
These fibroids are connected to the uterus through a stalk or stem. They can form either inside or outside the uterus and are known to trigger severe pain if the stalk twists (Fibroid Torsion). By understanding the different types of uterine fibroids, you can understand and identify their different impacts on the body and then get the required treatments.
Uterine Fibroids Symptoms
Even though many women may not experience uterine fibroids symptoms, the size, number, and location of the fibroids can cause a variety of discomforts. Frequently experienced symptoms involve prolonged or heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic discomfort or pressure, frequent urination, or difficulty in urination (difficulty emptying the bladder). Some females may be experiencing constipation, having lower back pain, and feeling discomfort during intercourse. In more serious cases, infertility and complications during pregnancy can also develop.
Uterine Fibroids Causes
Although the cause of fibroid development is still unknown, there are some factors that have been found to predispose a woman to develop uterine fibroids. These uterine fibroids causes include:
Hormonal changes
The growth of Fibroids is influenced by oestrogen and progesterone, the hormones that control the menstrual cycle in women. Fibroids are known to reduce in size after menopause because of the low levels of hormones.
Genetic factors
Fibroids are more likely to develop in women with a family history of the condition. They are also hereditary, and women with a mother or sister who has had fibroids are more likely to have them, too.
Other risk factors
Other possible uterine fibroids causes are obesity, high blood pressure, early menarche, and high consumption of red meat and low consumption of green vegetables. Understanding what causes fibroids can help in early detection and management.
Uterine Fibroid Treatments
Fortunately, there are various uterine fibroid treatments available to alleviate symptoms and remove or shrink fibroids. The management of fibroids depends on the size, number, location of the fibroids and whether the woman wants to conceive in the future or not. Some of the most common uterine fibroid treatments include:
Medications
Hormonal drugs, including gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, shrink fibroid size by suppressing oestrogen and progesterone secretion. There are other medications that may help manage the heavy bleeding such as birth control pills, but they do not reduce the size of the fibroids.
Non-surgical procedures
Procedures such as uterine artery embolization (UAE) can reduce the size of fibroids by blocking their blood supply. Another non-surgical method is using magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound surgery (MRgFUS), which employs sound waves to break down fibrous tissue.
Surgical options
In cases of big or complicated fibroids, surgery may be necessary. A myomectomy is a surgery that removes fibroids but leaves the uterus intact, which makes it ideal for women who wish to have children. Surgery, particularly hysterectomy, which involves the total removal of the uterus, is a permanent solution to severe cases.
Natural remedies
While medical treatment is required sometimes, there are a few uterine fibroids remedies that can ease the symptoms. It is suggested to women with this condition to consume a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables. Stress management is also important to ease the symptoms associated with this condition. Regular exercise can help lower the risk of the formation of fibroids and improve the reproductive health of women.
Conclusion
So, uterine fibroids can affect women of any age and have different symptoms for every individual, ranging from mild to severe. Knowledge of the various uterine fibroids symptoms, types, their causes, and symptoms is important in decision making regarding the health of women. Since there are several uterine fibroid treatments, medical, surgical, and natural, women can easily treat their condition and have a good quality of life.
