Uterine fibroids are noncancerous tumors that develop in the uterus. They are typically smooth and firm but can be soft or rubbery. These tumors can range from the size of a walnut to as large as a melon. They can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure on other organs in the body.
What causes uterine fibroids?
No one knows exactly what causes uterine fibroids to grow, but many doctors believe they’re due to excessive production of estrogen by cells of the uterus. Some of the other causes include:
- Age– Uterine fibroids are more common in women who are older than 40 years old, but they can occur at any age.
- Family history– Uterine fibroids may run in families. Research suggests that having a mother or sister with uterine fibroids increases your own risk of developing them; however, this doesn’t mean that every woman with a family history will develop them herself.
- Obesity– Being overweight or obese seems to increase your risk of developing uterine fibroids, possibly because it puts extra pressure on your pelvic organs (uterus and ovaries).
Symptoms of uterine fibroids:
There are some common symptoms that women often experience. Some of these include:
- Excessive bleeding during menstruation:
Women with uterine fibroids may experience heavy or prolonged bleeding during their periods. This may be accompanied by spotting between periods or after intercourse.
- Backache:
This is due to pressure from a large fibroid pressing on nerves at the back of the pelvis and spine.
- Diarrhea, constipation, or bloating:
If you have uterine fibroids, you might also experience changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation in addition to bloating and gas that aren’t caused by intestinal problems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- Urinary incontinence:
Uterine fibroids can cause some women to have a frequent urge to urinate and even leakage of urine at times when they don’t expect it (urinary incontinence). This is because the enlarged womb pushes against the bladder, making it harder for the bladder to hold urine.
- Heavy periods:
Uterine fibroids may cause excessive bleeding during your period due to their effect on the structure of the uterus. It’s also common for women with fibroids to have anemia (low iron levels) because of heavy periods.
- Painful intercourse:
Intercourse may be painful if a fibroid presses against your vagina or cervix. You may find that having sex hurts more when you’re ovulating or if you have an infection in your reproductive system.
- Diagnosis and treatment:
Uterine fibroids are typically diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests, such as ultrasound and MRI, along with a pelvic examination by your doctor. Visit the best diagnostic center in Kolkata for diagnosis.
Fibroids can be treated through medication or surgery. Medication options include birth control pills to suppress menstruation and lower estrogen levels — which can help shrink fibroids — or hormone therapy drugs that block estrogen’s effects on the body altogether. Surgery is typically reserved for women who are experiencing severe symptoms from their fibroids or whose health may be at risk because of them (for example, women with bleeding so bad that they need transfusions).
Depending on your symptoms and overall health, you might not need any treatment at all. Talk to your doctor about what treatments are available for fibroids and how they might affect your overall well-being. Find the best gynecologist in Kolkata for normal delivery and gynecological disorders; someone who specializes in treating such problems and has extensive experience in working with patients who have uterine fibroids.