Introduction
Fibroids also known as uterine fibroids or myomas or leiomyoma are non-cancerous growth/ tumors that develop in the uterus/womb. The growths are made up of smooth muscles and fibrous tissues. They vary size, number and location within the uterus. Fibroids are quite common, particularly in women of reproductive age typically between the ages of 30 and 50. It is estimated that about 20 – 80% of women may develop fibroids by the time they reach menopause but it is also worth noting that fibroids can also occur in women younger than 30 and after menopause, although less frequently.
Types of uterine fibroids
There are three types of fibroids and they include;
- Intramural fibroids this refers to fibroids that grow within the muscular wall of the uterus.
- Submucosal fibroids refers to the type of fibroids that grow and bulge into the uterine cavity.
- Subserosal fibroids there are fibroids that project to the outside of the uterus or in simple terms grow outside the uterus.
Some submucosal or subserosal fibroids may be pedunculated i.e. hanging from a stalk inside or outside the uterus.
Causes and risk factors of fibroids
The exact cause of fibroids is not fully understood and known. Hormonal factors, especially estrogen and progesterone, are believed to play a role in their development and growth.
Additionally, certain factors such as a family history of fibroids, a diet consisting of lots of red meat, early onset of puberty, African – African ethnicity, obesity and early onset of menstruation may increase the risk of developing fibroids.
Signs and Symptoms
Many women with fibroids do not present with symptoms of fibroids. However when symptoms occur, they do present with the following; heavy periods (menorrhagia) and prolonged menstrual bleeding, painful menstruation, frequent urination, constipation, pelvic pain, backache, enlarged abdomen, pain during sexual activities (dyspareunia) and rectal pressure.
Diagnosis
Fibroids are typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, pelvic examination and tests such as abdominal ultrasound, transvaginal ultrasound, pelvic MRI or hysteroscopy.
Treatment of fibroids
Treatment of fibroids depends on a number of factors such as severity of symptoms, the size and location of the tumor, and a woman’s reproductive plans. And they include;
- Lifestyle changes by maintaining moderate weight may help moderate estrogen levels which may help reduce fibroids.
- Medications that are prescribed by a qualified medical personnel.
- Noninvasive procedures like uterine artery embolization or magnetic resonance – guided focused ultrasound surgery (MRgFUS) can be used to shrink/ destroy fibroids without surgery.
Surgery may be recommended in severe cases.
Complications of fibroids
- Fibroids cause complications during pregnancy such as increased risk of miscarriage, preterm labor.
- Fibroids predisposes one to ovarian cancer.
- Fibroids can lead to anemia
- Causes difficulty getting pregnant.
- It also causes constipation, pain and heavy menstrual bleeding.
Conclusions
If you suspect that you have fibroids or you are experiencing symptoms associated with fibroids, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management options.