Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are a very common type of growth, and around 60-80% of women develop fibroids, especially between the ages of 30 and 50.

Uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids are a type of growth that forms inside or on the wall of the uterus and consists of muscles and tissue. Leiomyomas aren’t cancerous tumors, and it might be one fibroid or multiple ones, which might also be small or large.

Causes and risk factors leading to uterine fibroids

There isn’t a specific reason for uterine fibroids, but they could be a result of certain factors, such as the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which might help in the fibroids’ growth and gene changes.

The risk of uterine fibroids could increase due to the following factors:

• Obesity.
• Family history.
• Starting the period before the age of 10.
• Late age of menopause.
• Decreased level of vitamin D.
• A diet that is high in red meat and low in green vegetables, fruit, and dairy products.
• Not having children at all.
• Alcohol.

Symptoms of uterine fibroids

• Heavy bleeding during periods.
• Painful periods.
• Bleeding between the periods or long periods.
• Pelvic pressure and bloating.
• Pain in the lower back.
• Frequent urination or difficulty urinating.
• Constipation.
• Enlarged abdomen.
• In most of the cases, uterine fibroids don’t cause serious complications, but they could sometimes lead to severe pain, anemia, and infertility in rare cases.

Diagnosis of uterine fibroids

• Pelvic exam.
• Ultrasound.
• Imaging tests.

Treatment of uterine fibroids

Treatments for uterine fibroids vary between patients depending on the size and number of fibroids:

• Hormonal medicines.
• Certain procedures.
• Myomectomy.