Fibroids are a widespread condition affecting many women. In fact, up to 77% of women will develop fibroids over their childbearing years. Fibroids are abnormal noncancerous growths in the uterus. While they are generally not a cause for concern, they may be accompanied by various symptoms and negatively impact fertility. They often go undiagnosed because only about a third of them are large enough to be detected during a physical exam. Knowing the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for managing fibroids is essential for their treatment and prevention of potential complications.
The Symptoms and Signs of Fibroids
Also known as uterine fibroids, fibromas, myomas, leiomyomas, and uterine myomas, fibroids are typically benign. Fibroids can vary significantly in size and location. The uterus is made up of smooth muscle cells and when these swell, this results in a fibroid.
They grow in different layers of the uterus – please see schematic for different locations:
It’s important to note that not all women with fibroids experience symptoms.
Some symptoms of fibroids include:
- Heavy periods
- Bleeding between periods
- Longer periods
- Painful periods
- Pelvic and lower back pain
- Pressure in the lower abdomen
- Painful intercourse
- Increased urination
- Swelling in the abdomen
- Constipation
- Reduced fertility and pregnancy complications
- Chronic vaginal discharge
On rare occasions, fibroids precipitate the need for emergency treatment. If you experience sharp, sudden pain in the abdomen, severe vaginal bleeding, and symptoms of anaemia; seek emergency treatment.
What Causes Fibroids?
Doctors aren’t entirely sure what causes fibroids to develop; however, there are factors which may increase the likelihood of their growth. If you have a high body weight, a family history of fibroids, and are 30 years or older, you may be at a higher risk of developing fibroids. Another factor is early onset menstruation and late-onset menopause. Childbearing may reduce the risk of fibroids.
Methods Used To Diagnose Fibroids
Because only a third of fibroids are diagnosed through physical exams, women experiencing fibroid-like symptoms may require other diagnostic methods. Diagnostic tools vary depending on the doctor and their preference, although non-invasive methods are typically the first to be used.
If you suspect you have fibroids, a doctor may conduct an abdominal or transvaginal ultrasound, MRI, or a CT scan. Transvaginal ultrasound is the best way to diagnose fibroids as well as determine their size, number and location.
Treatments for Fibroids
Fibroid treatments range from lifestyle changes and hormones, to invasive, and minimally invasive procedures. The treatment method will vary depending on how manyfibroids are present, how big they are, where they are, the accompanying symptoms, and the desire for pregnancy.
- Lifestyle changes such as increased exercise, stress management, and a healthy diet may improve symptoms.
- Hormone-based treatments, which reduce oestrogen and progesterone levels, or birth control and intrauterine device (IUD) that releases progestin can be helpful.
- Minimally invasive treatments such as uterine fibroid embolization, magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound, and radiofrequency ablation of fibroids help shrink fibroids.
- Surgical procedures such as myomectomy via laparoscopy or hysteroscopy remove the fibroids but keep the uterus intact and preserve fertility.
Women should monitor any fibroid-related symptoms and seek medical attention as necessary. Early detection is key in securing appropriate treatment and improving quality of life.