Fibroid

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are noncancerous tumors that grow in the muscle tissue of the uterus. They are quite common and can vary in size, number, and location.

Types of Uterine Fibroids

Submucosal Fibroids: Located just beneath the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium). They can distort the uterine cavity and may cause heavy menstrual bleeding and problems with fertility.
Intramural Fibroids: Found within the wall of the uterus. They are the most common type and can enlarge the uterus, leading to symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain.
Subserosal Fibroids: Growing on the outer wall of the uterus, they can extend into the pelvic cavity. They may cause symptoms like pressure or pain in the pelvis, and sometimes they can push against other organs.
Pedunculated Fibroids: Attached to the uterine wall by a stalk. These fibroids can be found on the outside of the uterus or within the uterine cavity.

Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Prolonged or excessively heavy periods, sometimes with blood clots.
Pelvic Pain: Pressure or pain in the pelvic area, which can sometimes radiate to the lower back or legs.
Frequent Urination: Pressure on the bladder can lead to the need to urinate frequently.
Difficulty Emptying the Bladder: Feeling as though the bladder is not completely empty after urination.
Constipation: Pressure on the rectum can cause issues with bowel movements.
Pain During Intercourse: Fibroids can sometimes cause pain during sexual activity.
Enlarged Abdomen: A noticeable increase in the size of the abdomen due to fibroids.

Causes of Uterine Fibroids

The exact cause of uterine fibroids is not known, but several factors are thought to contribute:

Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone, hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle, may promote the growth of fibroids.
Genetics: A family history of fibroids may increase the risk of developing them.
Age: Fibroids are more common in women of reproductive age, particularly in their 30s and 40s.
Race: African-American women are more likely to develop fibroids and may experience more severe symptoms compared to women of other races.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of fibroids.

Diagnosis of Uterine Fibroids

Pelvic Examination: A physical exam where the doctor may feel for abnormalities in the size or shape of the uterus.
Ultrasound: A non-invasive imaging technique that uses sound waves to create images of the uterus and identify fibroids.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Provides detailed images of the uterus and helps in assessing the size and location of fibroids.
Hysteroscopy: A procedure where a thin, lighted tube (hysteroscope) is inserted into the uterus through the vagina to visualize and possibly biopsy fibroids.
Sonohystogram (Saline Infusion Sonography): An ultrasound technique where a saline solution is injected into the uterine cavity to get a clearer view of fibroids.

Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids

Treatment depends on factors such as the size and location of the fibroids, symptoms, and whether the patient wishes to preserve fertility.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Hormonal Treatments: Birth control pills or hormonal IUDs can help manage symptoms by regulating menstrual bleeding.
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Agonists: Medications that temporarily shrink fibroids by suppressing hormone production.
Progestin-Releasing Intrauterine Device (IUD): Can reduce heavy bleeding caused by fibroids.
Anti-inflammatory Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and heavy bleeding.

Surgical Treatments

Myomectomy: A surgical procedure to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus.
Hysterectomy: The surgical removal of the uterus. This is a permanent solution and is typically considered for women who do not wish to preserve fertility.
Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE): A minimally invasive procedure where blood supply to the fibroids is blocked, causing them to shrink.
MRI-guided Focused Ultrasound: A non-invasive procedure that uses high-intensity ultrasound waves to destroy fibroid tissue.

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