Fibroids

Definition

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary greatly in size. The cause of fibroids is unknown, but they are associated with hormonal changes and often shrink after menopause.

Key Takeaways

1. Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They are composed of muscle and fibrous tissue and vary in size. They are most commonly found in women during their reproductive years.
2. While fibroids don’t always show symptoms, when they do, they commonly cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and frequent urination. In some cases, they can pose a significant threat to fertility and can cause complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
3. Various treatment options for fibroids are available, ranging from medication to manage symptoms, to surgical procedures to remove the fibroids. The choice depends largely on the severity of the symptom, the woman’s age, the size, number and location of the fibroids, and whether the woman wants to preserve her fertility or not.

Importance

Fibroids, also known as uterine fibroids, are important in the context of motherhood as they can significantly impact a woman’s reproductive health. These noncancerous growths in the uterus can cause various complications, including heavy or painful periods, fertility issues, and complications during pregnancy and labor.

They have the potential to interpose with the natural process of conception and pregnancy. For example, they may obstruct the fallopian tubes, interfere with the egg fertilization process, or impede the implantation of the embryo in the uterine wall.

In some cases, they can also cause placental abruption, preterm delivery, or alter the position of the fetus. Therefore, understanding fibroids is crucial in maternal healthcare to ensure safe and successful pregnancies.

Explanation

Fibroids, or uterine fibroids, are noncancerous growths that develop in or around the womb (uterus). The purpose of fibroids is not entirely known. However, understanding the role of hormonal factors such as progesterone and estrogen levels, can provide insight into the growth and development of fibroids.

It’s important to note that fibroids usually develop during a woman’s reproductive years when the estrogen and progesterone hormone levels are high. In regards to what fibroids are used for, this question can be somewhat misleading.

Fibroids themselves do not provide a concrete ‘use’; they are an abnormal growth that occurs in or around the uterus. Instead of contributing positively, they can lead to problematic issues.

Some women with fibroids experience significant symptoms such as heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, anemia, pain or discomfort in the pelvis, frequent urination, and fertility complications. Therefore, medical assessment and potential treatment is often necessary.

Examples of Fibroids

Case 1: A 35-year-old woman, named Sarah, has been trying to conceive for the last two years without success. After visiting a gynecologist, she discovers that she has fibroids, noncancerous growths in her uterus. Sarah’s condition could be impacting her fertility, as fibroids can potentially obstruct the fallopian tubes, interfere with the sperm reaching the egg, or block the growth of the embryo. In such a scenario, the appropriate treatment options would include medication or surgical removal of the fibroids.

Case 2: Jane, 40, started experiencing unusually heavy menstrual bleeding and pain in her lower abdomen. After a medical examination, it is found that she has fibroids. Her doctor suggests a personalized treatment plan based on the size, location, and number of fibroids, and other factors including her general health and whether she plans to have children.

Case 3: Maria, a 45-year-old mother of two, is diagnosed with large fibroids that are causing pressure on her bladder, leading to frequent urination. The doctor suggests using a non-invasive procedure known as MRI-guided focused ultrasound surgery (FUS) to treat the fibroids without affecting her uterus. This method is useful for Maria, as she doesn’t plan on having any more children, and it provides a non-surgical solution to her health issue.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fibroids

What are fibroids?

Fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. They are also known as uterine myomas or leiomyomas.

What are the symptoms of fibroids?

Many women with fibroids have no symptoms at all, while others may have symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged menstrual periods, pelvic pressure or pain, frequent urination, difficulty in emptying the bladder, constipation, or backache or leg pains.

What causes fibroids?

The exact cause of fibroids is unknown, but it’s thought that they may be influenced by both genetic factors and hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone.

How are fibroids diagnosed?

Fibroids are often found incidentally during a regular pelvic examination. If you have symptoms of fibroids, your doctor may order more detailed exams or tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI.

What are the treatment options for fibroids?

The best treatment for fibroids often depends on your individual symptoms, the size and location of your fibroids, your age, and your personal goals, such as desire for future pregnancies. In many cases, treatment may not be necessary, especially if the fibroids aren’t causing any symptoms. When treatment is needed, options can range from medication to control symptoms to surgery to remove the fibroids.

Related Motherhood Terms

• Uterine Fibroids
• Myomectomy
• Hysterectomy
• Menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding)
• Leiomyomas

Sources for More Information

• Mayo Clinic: This site has extensive information on various health topics, including fibroids.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC offers a wealth of health information, including resources about fibroids.
• WebMD: WebMD is a widely respected online health platform that provides comprehensive information on a wide array of subjects, including fibroids.
• Office on Women’s Health: Specifically focused on health issues related to women, this source provides detailed related content, such as information on fibroids.