Have You Heard of Uterine Fibroids?
Have You Heard of Uterine Fibroids?
Have You Heard of Uterine Fibroids?
What are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine Fibroids are non-cancerous growths of muscle tissue that can range in size from microscopic to as big as a grapefruit. They develop inside or outside a woman's uterus and are one of the leading causes of hysterectomies for women in the United States. The exact reasons why some women develop uterine fibroids are unknown; however, there are factors that can increase a woman's risk of developing them:
Age: Fibroids become more common as women age, especially during the 30s and 40s through menopause. After menopause, the fibroids tend to shrink.
Family History: Women whose mothers and sisters have uterine fibroids are more likely to have them too.
Obesity: For women who are overweight, the risk is two to three times greater than average.
Eating Habits: Eating plenty of green vegetables seems to protect women from developing fibroids.
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
Most often, uterine fibroids do not cause any symptoms, but when women do experience symptoms, the most common are the following:
Irregular vaginal bleeding or an increase in menstrual bleeding
Pressure on the bladder, which may cause frequent urination
Pressure on the rectum, which may cause constipation
Lower abdomen pain
Enlargement of the lower abdomen
These symptoms can also be signs of other problems. Therefore, you should consult your Obstetrician/Gynecologist (OB/GYN) if you have any of these symptoms. Your doctor will discuss your medical history and conduct a pelvic exam to test for uterine abnormalities.
Treatment
Fibroids that do not cause symptoms often do not require treatment. The choice of the treatment depends on your OB/GYN doctor's medical advice and the size and location of the fibroid. Obstetricians/gynecologists offer these surgical procedures to treat uterine fibrosis:
Myomectomy: This is a surgical option performed to remove uterine fibroids while leaving the uterus in place. It is best for women who wish to have children after treatment. However, after myomectomy new fibroids can grow and cause trouble later.
Hysterectomy: Your doctor may suggest having a hysterectomy to remove the entire uterus and all uterine fibroids. This procedure cures uterine fibroids and prevents them from ever returning. Hysterectomy is not recommended for women who want children in the future.
Endometrial Ablation: This procedure involves the removal of the lining of the uterus to control very heavy bleeding. But, a woman cannot have children after this surgery. Endometrial Ablation is considered minor surgery.
Myolysis: A needle is inserted into the fibroids and electric current or freezing is used to destroy the fibroids.
Although these are the most common surgical procedures offered to treat uterine fibroids, there are also non-surgical options that your doctor may be able to recommend. Therefore, consult with your local OB/GYN to determine the most effective treatment for you. If you have uterine fibroids or have had them in the past, you should be routinely examined by your doctor. Habitual checkups will help you be aware of any changes concerning your uterine health.
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