Uterine fibroids (also known as leiomyomas) are uterine growths composed of muscle and connective tissue. These growths are not generally malignant (benign). In your pelvis, the uterus is an upside down pear-shaped organ. Your uterus is around the size of a lemon. During pregnancy, it is the location where a baby grows and develops.
Are fibroids a common occurrence?
Fibroids are a somewhat frequent form of pelvic tumor. Fibroids affect 40 to 80% of the population. However, because many people do not suffer any symptoms from their fibroids, they are unaware that they have them. This can happen if you have little fibroids, which are known as asymptomatic since they don’t create any symptoms.
Symptoms and prevalence
Most fibroids do not cause any symptoms, but some women with fibroids can have:
- Heavy bleeding (which can be heavy enough to cause anemia) or painful periods
- Feeling of fullness in the pelvic area (lower stomach area)
- Enlargement of the lower abdomen
- Frequent urination
- Pain during sex
- Lower back pain
- Complications during pregnancy and labor, including a six-time greater risk of cesarean section
- Reproductive problems, such as infertility, which is very rare
While fibroids are prevalent in women of reproductive age, those approaching menopause are more prone to acquire the condition. According to reports, around 25% of women over the age of 30 are at danger of having fibroids, and by the age of 50, the risk jumps to a frightening 70%. Early menstruation, obesity, high blood pressure, caffeine, alcohol, age, and hereditary factors are risk factors for developing the condition associated with fibroid origins. Interestingly, African American women have a greater frequency of the condition due to a higher prevalence of pelvic infections and genetic inheritance in their group.
Causes
While no conclusive cause has been identified, high levels of female hormones (estrogen) and genetics are thought to be the most prevalent causes of fibroid formation. Furthermore, women of reproductive age who do not become pregnant have high amounts of female hormones as part of their natural cycle; nonetheless, this has been linked to an increased risk of developing fibroids.
On the contrary, some studies have found that women who use oral contraceptives had a lower incidence of fibroids, which they attribute to hormonal imbalances. The similar logic is widely applied in the study of postmenopausal regression in fibroids. But when and how can fibroids be treated?
Treatment
Treatment for uterine fibroids varies based on their size, quantity, and location, as well as the symptoms they cause. If you have no symptoms from your fibroids, you may not require treatment. Small fibroids are frequently left alone. Some people never have any symptoms or concerns linked with fibroids. Your fibroids will be continuously monitored throughout time, but there is no need to take any urgent action. Depending on the size and symptoms of your fibroid, your healthcare physician may prescribe periodic pelvic examinations and ultrasound. Treatment is normally required if you are having symptoms from your fibroids, such as anemia from excessive bleeding, moderate to severe discomfort, infertility troubles, or urinary tract and bowel problems.
Your future reproductive objectives will also influence the optimal treatment choice for you. Some treatment choices may not be available to you if you wish to have children in the future. When considering treatment alternatives, tell your healthcare professional about your ideas on fertility and your future ambitions.
Consult a Doctor
If you are suffering from severe pain in you lower belly or your periods have been very rough consult a doctor immediately. Do no take any medications on your own and make sure you follow your doctor’s advice. You can consult a gynecologist in Lahore to a gynecologist in Karachi, all the specialized doctors are available at just a click at Oladoc.
