7 Facts About Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are a common gynecological condition that occurs in many women of childbearing age. They are benign tumors that develop in the muscular layer of the uterus. Despite their frequency, fibroids remain a mystery to many women. They are often surrounded by myths and misconceptions that make women neglect their condition or even avoid treatment when it is crucial. In this article, we look at seven important facts about uterine fibroids that will help you better understand this condition and its possible consequences.
1. Uterine fibroids can be asymptomatic
Many women who have fibroids don’t experience any symptoms. In this case, they may be discovered during a routine gynecological examination or ultrasound. However, in some cases, fibroids cause pelvic pain, problems with fertility, heavy menstrual bleeding, frequent urination, or a feeling of pressure in the abdomen. The intensity of the symptoms depends on the size, number, and location of the tumors.
2. The causes of fibroids are not fully understood
The exact causes of uterine fibroids are still unknown. However, studies show that hormonal changes, especially estrogen and progesterone, play an important role. It is also believed that heredity can affect the likelihood of developing fibroids – if a mother or grandmother had fibroids, the risk of her daughter developing them too is increased.
3. Fibroids come in different shapes and sizes
Fibroids can vary in shape, size, and location. They can be subserosal (growing outward from the uterus), intramural (located in the muscle layer), and submucosal (growing under the lining of the uterus). Some fibroids are only a few millimeters in size, while others can be the size of a grapefruit or more.
4. Fibroids can affect fertility
Although most women with fibroids can become pregnant and successfully carry a baby, in some cases fibroids can make pregnancy difficult. This occurs when the tumor deforms the uterine cavity, blocks the fallopian tubes, or changes the blood supply to the lining of the uterus. However, modern treatment methods can eliminate this problem and increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
5. Lifestyle can affect fibroid growth
Research shows that lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity can affect the development of fibroids. Obesity, consumption of significant amounts of red meat and alcohol, and low consumption of fruits and vegetables can contribute to the development of fibroids. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and weight management can help slow the progression of the disease.
6. Treatment of fibroids depends on many factors
The choice of treatment method for fibroids depends on the woman's age, the size and location of the nodes, and the presence of symptoms. Uterine fibroids treatment includes drug therapy, minimally invasive procedures (uterine artery embolization, focused ultrasound ablation), and surgical interventions (myomectomy or hysterectomy). In some cases, observation of the fibroid without active treatment (watchful waiting) is also an acceptable option.
7. A fibroid develops into a malignant tumor
One of the most common fears associated with uterine fibroids is the fear that they may develop into cancer. But malignant degeneration of uterine fibroids is extremely rare - it accounts for less than 1% of cases. However, regular examinations performed by the gynecologist help monitor the situation and detect changes on time.
The bottom line
Uterine fibroids are a common, but not always dangerous disease. In most cases, no radical treatment is required, and there is no danger to the woman's life. Nevertheless, it is important to have regular check-ups with your gynecologist, monitor your health, and not ignore alarming symptoms. If you have been diagnosed with fibroids, you should consult a specialist to choose the most appropriate treatment method and avoid possible complications.
