4 Quick Facts You Should Know About Living with Fibroids

 

Did you know that up to 80% of women develop fibroid by the age of 50? Fibroids, also known as Leiomyomas, is one of the leading causes of hysterectomies, making the condition one of the biggest concerns in women’s health. They are essentially abnormal growths on the uterine wall of women. Some will come with symptoms like abdominal pain, but some won’t show you any signs. Well, here are some quick facts you should know know about fibroids:

What are the main causes of fibroids?

The cause of fibroids hasn’t been established yet. That said, research shows that there are some predisposing factors. One of them is the hormones in your body. In fact, one fibroid risk study found a correlation between high levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones and the growth of uterine fibroids. These hormones stimulate the development of the uterine wall in each of your menstrual cycles. They do help in preparation for pregnancy. However, evidence shows that fibroid cells may be affected as well.
Other risk factors include family history (genetic factors), pregnancy (linked to the increase in hormones), age, high body weight, and race. In other words, older women are affected more, but you can get fibroids irrespective of age. Some can develop fibroids at younger ages of between 21-30 years. African-American women have been found to have a higher chance of developing the condition

Types of fibroids

·         Intramural fibroids are the common type. They tend to develop within the uterine wall and expand from there.

·         Subserosal fibroids typically develop on the outer uterine wall, thus causing extra pressure on surrounding organs.

·         Submucosal fibroids are the least common type of fibroids. They develop under the lining of the uterine cavity in a place known as the myometrium.

·         Pedunculated uterine fibroids occur when a fibroid tumor grows on a stalk, attaching them to the uterine wall

Common Fibroids Symptoms You Should Know

Again, fibroids may not come with symptoms, but here are some of the common ones to watch out for:

·         Heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain. Heavy bleeding can lead to anemia.

·         Frequent urination due to bladder pressure.

·         Back pain and constipation due to rectum pressure.

·         Bloating. This happens when large fibroids push into the stomach area.

Most women with fibroids will have normal pregnancies, although the size and location of the fibroid can affect them. They can interfere with the implantation of the embryo. Any effect on the womb caused by the fibroids can lead to heavy vaginal bleeding and other symptoms that can interfere with the quality of life in women.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Fibroids

One of the ways to diagnose fibroids is through a routine pelvic exam. According to specialists from fibroid treatment center nyc, the treatment option will depend on several factors. Your doctor will assess things like the symptoms you are presenting, the size and location of the fibroids, your age, etc.

An ultrasound or other imaging tests like MRI are often used to confirm the size and location of the fibroid. Lab tests can also be used to diagnose other conditions caused by fibroids like anemia. In case fibroids are suspected, the doctor will usually order a round of testing called fibroid screening.

The best treatment of fibroids ranges from simple medications to surgery options.

Final Remarks

Although fibroids won’t kill you, they can hurt your quality of life. That is why you should be aggressive in finding answers on fibroids for you and your loved ones. Don’t hesitate to seek help from a fibroid specialist if you have any symptoms worrying you.