Uterine fibroids Symptoms and causes

Uterine Fibroids:

Benign uterine fibroids are one of the most common benign tumors in women of childbearing age. This tumor is non-cancerous, meaning it does not spread to other tissues. It consists of a proliferation of muscle cells, other tissues, and fibers that grow within and around the uterus in an uncontrolled manner. In normal cases, the functional layer of the uterus sheds during each menstrual cycle without affecting the muscular layer. Fibroids can be benign and may grow in larger numbers, varying in size, either remaining stable or increasing over time. They are also known as leiomyomas or smooth muscle tumors.
There isn’t a clear and specific cause of uterine fibroids, but experts and researchers suggest several factors that may cause them, including age, family history of uterine fibroids, certain races and ethnicities, obesity, high blood pressure, hormones, and certain dietary patterns.

Symptoms of uterine fibroids:

Uterine fibroids don’t always cause noticeable symptoms. Some of the main symptoms include changes in menstrual periods (heavy bleeding, bleeding between periods, painful periods), anemia (due to heavy bleeding), feeling of pain or pressure in the lower abdomen, frequent urination, lower back pain, pain during intercourse. Uterine fibroids may also lead to reproductive problems, miscarriage, preterm birth, and the need for a cesarean section.
Usually, women with uterine fibroids don’t experience severe and unbearable pain unless the fibroids have grown significantly, causing compression of blood vessels and interruption of blood supply, leading to cell and tissue death. This can result in the release of substances causing localized fever with severe pain.

How can I know if I have uterine fibroids if there are no symptoms:

In fact, uterine fibroids may be discovered during routine pelvic exams or while investigating other abdominal or pelvic issues. Some tests used to detect uterine fibroids include:
1- Ultrasound (sonography): To create an image of the pelvis and uterus, a probe may be placed on the abdomen or inserted vaginally.
2- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
3- Computed Tomography (CT) scan using X-rays.
4- Blood tests to check for anemia and measure iron levels in the body.
5- Hysteroscopy, which is a confirmatory procedure for diagnosing fibroids and can also determine their size and location more accurately.

How are uterine fibroids treated:

You should immediately consult a doctor if you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms. After confirming the diagnosis using the aforementioned methods, your doctor will discuss various treatment options based on your condition. If the fibroids are asymptomatic, you may not need treatment, but regular check-ups are necessary to monitor their growth. For large or medium-sized fibroids, the doctor may recommend necessary medical procedures or surgery. Some medical treatments include hormonal therapies such as birth control pills, vaginal contraceptive rings, or intrauterine devices containing hormones (such as an IUD). These can help control the heavy bleeding associated with fibroids. Surgical procedures may involve removing the fibroids, destroying them without removal, or even removing the uterus. The appropriate procedure will be chosen by the doctor based on each case, considering factors such as the number, location, and size of the fibroids, as well as whether the woman wants to have more children in the future. It is important to thoroughly discuss your condition with your doctor to address all your questions and determine the appropriate treatment for you.