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.
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