Fibroids are abnormal growths that develop in or on a woman’s uterus. Sometimes, these growths or tumors become quite large and cause severe abdominal pain and heavy periods. In some cases, they show no signs or symptoms at all. The growths are typically noncancerous. The cause of fibroids is unknown.
Some research shows there may be a relation between estrogen levels and fibroid. When estrogen levels are high, especially during pregnancy, fibroids tend to swell. Research has also shown it develops more with women who are taking birth control pills that contains estrogen. It has also been observed that when estrogen is low, like in menopause, fibroids tends to shrink
According to research, 70 to 80 percent of women have them by the age of 50, most do not show symptoms.
TYPES OF FIBROIDS
Intramural Fibroids
Intramural fibroids are the most common type of fibroid. They appear within the muscular wall of the uterus. Intramural fibroids may grow larger and can stretch your womb.
Subserosal Fibroids
Subserosal fibroids form on the outside of your uterus. This part of the uterus is called the serosa. They may grow large enough to make your womb appear bigger on one side.
Pedunculated Fibroids
When subserosal tumors or fibroids develop a stem, they become pedunculated fibroids.
CAUSES
As stated earlier, it is unclear why fibroids develop, but several factors may influence their formation. These factors includes
Hormones
Estrogen and progesterone are the hormones produced by the ovaries. They cause the uterine lining to regenerate during each menstrual cycle and may stimulate the growth of fibroids.
Family History
Fibroids in most cases run in the family. If your mother, sister, or grandmother has a history of this condition, you may develop it as well.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy increases the production of estrogen and progesterone in your body, this inversely increases the chances of fibroid development.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms depends on the location, size of the tumor(s) and number of the tumors. A small sized tumor and a woman at the menopause stage may not have any symptoms. Fibroids may shrink during and after menopause.
Symptoms of fibroids may include:
heavy bleeding between or during your periods
pain in the pelvis and or lower back
increased menstrual cramping
increased urination
pain during intercourse
menstruation that lasts longer than usual
pressure or fullness in your lower abdomen
swelling or enlargement of the abdomen
DIAGNOSIS
A gynecologist will do a pelvic examination. This is done to check the condition, size, and shape of your uterus.
Other tests may also be required:
Ultrasound
An ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to produce images of your uterus on a screen. This enables a doctor to see its internal structures and any fibroids present.
Pelvic MRI
MRI produces pictures of uterus, ovaries, and other pelvic organs.
TREATMENT
A treatment plan is developed by the Doctor, based on the patients age, size of fibroid(s), and overall health.
Medications
Medications to regulate your hormone levels may be prescribed to shrink fibroids. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, such as leuprolide (Lupron), will cause your estrogen and progesterone levels to drop. This will eventually stop menstruation and shrink fibroids.
Surgery
Surgery to remove very large or multiple growths (myomectomy) may be performed.
PREVENTION
Regular uterus check up is advised for women of age 35 and above.
When you start observing irregular mensuration, please check with your doctor.
Reduce pill intakes that has high estrogen levels.
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