Introduction
Uterine fibroids are the clusters of cells that grow inside the uterus of the patient. These are also referred to as myomas or tumours that scarcely transform into cancer if left untreated. It is very rare for them to convert into cancerous masses and might be easily treatable. The treatment will depend upon the size, location and shape of the fibroid.
Their size might vary from microscopic to big clusters of cells. These fibroids are more common in pregnant women of higher age. The fibroids might stick to the wall of the uterus through stalk or stem-like structures. In many cases, the women have these fibroids and don’t even have any symptoms.
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
The symptoms of these fibroids depend upon their size and the location affected. Most of them do not cause any serious symptoms and can even leave untreated after a medical consultation. The fibroids that don’t show any symptoms are asymptomatic fibroids. Similarly, if the fibroids show symptoms, then they are symptomatic fibroids. These symptoms might fade away after menopause. This is because the levels of hormones decline after it.
Some of the common symptoms shown by such fibroids are as follows:
- Severe cramps during menstruation
- Excessive bleeding during menstruation
- Severe boating
- Constipation or frequent urination
- Painful vaginal discharge
Causes of Uterine Fibroids
Although, there is no special and specific reason behind these fibroids. However, some of the underlying causes of it are as follows:
- One of the main reasons behind these fibroids can be the presence of different genes than normal ones.
- If there is a high secretion of female hormones (oestrogen and progesterone), then the chances of fibroids also increase. After menopause, the quantity of these hormones declines and the chances of fibroids too.
- The fibroids cells have high ECM (Extracellular Matrix) that acts as the cell binder. It holds the cells of fibroids like a mortar.
- The age of the pregnant woman also plays a major role in developing a uterine fibroid.
- A family history of fibroids also increases the chance of it.
When to see a doctor
If someone experiences severe abdominal pain, continuous bloating, severe bleeding or cramps during menstruation, then they might consider visiting the doctor. Moreover, the size of fibroids plays an important role in the treatment. If the size is larger, then they must consult the doctor.
Remedies / Treatment of Uterine Fibroids
The treatment for such fibroids depends upon their type and size. If the size is smaller and they are asymptomatic, then the doctors might suggest it be left untreated. They might naturally shrink in such cases. However, in other cases, the doctors might prescribe oral medications for treatment.
If the condition is a little severe then they might have to undergo surgery for the removal of the fibroid. The surgeons might only either removes the tissue of the fibroid or completely remove the uterus. Before the removal of the uterus, the doctors will ask the patient if they want to get pregnant in the future.
If not, then only the surgery can be performed.
Conclusion
Uterine fibroids are the group or clusters of cells that grows anonymously in the uterus of a woman. The exact cause of these fibroids is unknown. However, some of the risk factors include genetic disorders, excessive secretion of hormones, age of the pregnant female above 35 etc. the fibroids are easy to treat and are very rare to convert into cancerous masses. In severe cases, they might show symptoms such as excessive bleeding and cramps during menstruation, bloating and even constipation. The treatment depends upon the type and location of the fibroid.
Yes, a woman having fibroids can easily get pregnant. However, she must remain under proper medical consultation for having a healthy delivery. This is because the levels of hormones increase during pregnancy and these elevated hormonal levels promote the growth of fibroids. However, under proper medical facilities, a woman can have a normal delivery even with fibroids.
The main cause can be hormonal imbalances or genetic effects.
The best and the most effective method for treating these fibroids is myomectomy. This involves the removal of fibroid cells without the removal of the uterus. This is a better option because the woman can get pregnant in the future if she wants.
The woman might feel severe abdominal or pelvis pain along with heavy bleeding during menstruation.
No, there is no special or specific way to avoid these fibroids. However, a healthy diet along with some exercise does help in avoiding any such diseases.
