Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus wall. Medically they are commonly known as myomas or leiomyomas. They are made up of mainly the smooth muscle cells and the connective tissues. Women in the reproductive age group are more prone to develop uterine fibroids. They are one of the leading causes of hysterectomy.

Risk Factors:

Though the exact cause of uterine fibroids is not known, several risk factors may contribute to its development. Some of them are:Hormones: 

  • Hormones such as estrogen and progesterone promote the development of fibroids. That is the reason uteroid fibroids are common in childbearing age and their incidence decreases with menopause.
  • Family History: If the mother has a history of uterine fibroid then the daughter is at a greater risk to develop it.
  • Diet and Lifestyle: Women who are obese, consume more dairy and red meat, a less fibrous diet and  have a sedentary lifestyle have a higher risk of uterine fibroids.
  • Reproductive History: Women who have never given birth are at a higher risk to develop uterine fibroids.

Symptoms: 

The symptoms may vary depending on the size and the position of the fibroid. A woman may experience pelvic pain, menstrual irregularities like heavy periods, backache, thigh pain or pain during intercourse.

Diagnosis:

The Doctor may do a Pelvic examination and recommend tests such as pelvic X-ray, Ultrasound abdomen, MRI or Hysteroscopy. 

Management: 

The treatment plan for uterine fibroid depends on many factors such as age and fertility requirement of woman, size and location of fibroid and severity. 

  • Most of the fibroids that are small and are without any symptoms can be left untreated with regular monitoring to see their progression.
  • Doctors may start medication to relieve the symptoms and stop the progression. This includes treatment options such as hormonal pills and IUDs which shrink the size and reduce the pain and bleeding. 
  • Some non-surgical procedures like Uterine artery embolization which shrinks the fibroid by cutting off its blood supply
  • Minimally invasive procedures like MRI guided focus ultrasound surgery destroys the fibroid tissues. 
  • Surgical procedures like Myomectomy where they surgically remove the fibroid mass or Hysterectomy where the whole uterus is removed are considered depending on the severity or whether the woman wants to keep the future fertility option open .

Prognosis:

Most of the uterine fibroids are benign and asymptomatic. Rarely they progress to malignancy. But regular eyes should be kept on their progression. May sometimes affect fertility but respond well to treatment.

Disclaimer: This article is written by Practo for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.