Fibroids

What are uterine fibroids?

Fibroids are one of the factors known to negatively impact fertility. These are non-cancerous growths that develop from the muscular tissue of the uterus. Fibroids are among the most commonly occurring tumors in the female reproductive system, and their presence can reduce the chances of conception.

What are the symptoms of fibroids?

It is estimated that nearly 60% of women in India experience fibroids at some point. While many women may remain asymptomatic, others might experience:

Abdominal pain
Lower back discomfort
Pelvic pain
Infertility during reproductive years
Heavy, irregular, or painful periods

In some cases, additional signs may include:

A palpable lump in the abdomen
Urinary retention difficulties
Problems with bowel movements

Understanding the symptoms and seeking timely medical advice can help manage fibroids effectively, especially when fertility is a concern.

What are the causes of fibroids?

The exact cause of fibroids is not well understood, although a genetic component is suspected. Fibroids are hormone-dependent, typically growing during a woman’s reproductive years when hormone levels are high and shrinking after menopause. They may also increase in size during pregnancy due to elevated hormone levels.

Treatment options for fibroids depend on several factors, including the patient’s age, the severity of the symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, and the desire to conceive. For managing symptoms such as pain and heavy bleeding, hormonal medications, birth control pills, and pain relievers are commonly used. For patients facing infertility, a myomectomy, which involves surgically removing the fibroids, may be recommended.

For those who do not plan to have children in the future, other options include uterine artery embolization, a progestin-releasing IUD, or a hysterectomy, which is the surgical removal of the uterus.

Surgical management has generally shown higher success rates compared to medical treatments. Throughout the treatment process, it’s essential for patients to consistently take their medications, maintain a healthy diet, engage in regular physical activity, and ensure they get adequate rest to support their recovery and overall well-being.

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Symptoms of Fibroids: