Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop within or adjacent to the uterus, and they vary in size, shape, and quantity. A diagnosis may prompt questions about the condition’s progression and its potential impact on daily functional activities. Here is more information on the pathology of fibroids, their symptomatic presentation, and available medical interventions:
What Are Fibroids?
Fibroids, medically known as leiomyomas, are muscular tumors that proliferate in the wall of the uterus. They are benign in the vast majority of cases, meaning they are not cancerous and do not increase the risk of uterine cancer. Some fibroids remain microscopic and asymptomatic, while others grow large enough to distort or enlarge the uterine structure.
Healthcare providers categorize these growths by their specific anatomical location within the uterus. Intramural fibroids appear within the muscular uterine wall, while submucosal fibroids project into the uterine cavity. Subserosal fibroids project from the outside of the uterus and can sometimes press against adjacent organs, such as the bladder or bowel.
What Causes Them?
The precise cause of uterine fibroids remains medically undefined, but there are several influencing factors. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone may promote the growth of these tumors during reproductive years. Physicians may observe fibroid growth during pregnancy when hormone levels are high, and they tend to shrink after menopause when hormone production declines. Risk factors include obesity, a family history of the condition, and early onset of menstruation.
What Are the Symptoms?
Some patients with fibroids do not experience any observable symptoms, but others face substantial physical challenges. The specific location, size, and number of fibroids generally determine the severity of the clinical presentation. Common signs include heavy menstrual bleeding and menstrual periods lasting more than a week.
Pelvic pressure or pain is experienced in some patients. Individuals may report frequent urination and difficulty emptying the bladder completely due to obstruction. Constipation and backache or leg pains are also possible, though these symptoms may occur less frequently than menstrual irregularities.
How Is Daily Life Affected?
Heavy menstrual bleeding may lead to anemia; this results in fatigue and decreased physical capacity. This physical exhaustion can impact work performance and restrict participation in social or athletic activities. Painful periods sometimes necessitate bed rest or the regular use of medication to manage discomfort effectively.
Large fibroids sometimes create a sensation of heaviness or fullness in the lower abdomen. This physical change may alter how clothing fits, and it has the potential to affect a patient’s appearance. Frequent urination or bladder pressure can disrupt sleep and require careful planning for travel or outings.
What Are the Treatment Options?
Treatment plans depend on the severity of symptoms and the patient’s desire for fertility preservation. Minimally invasive procedures offer alternatives to traditional surgery. Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) involves injecting embolic agents into the arteries supplying the uterus to cut off blood flow to fibroids. This process causes the tumors to shrink and die, and it typically requires a shorter recovery time than surgery.
Seek Professional Care Today
Fibroids are a common gynecological condition that presents with a wide range of clinical symptoms. Accurate diagnosis requires a pelvic exam and imaging tests to determine the most suitable course of action. Early consultation with a specialist enables a range of management strategies, and it helps prevent complications associated with anemia or tumor growth.
