Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids, non-cancerous growths in the uterus, are a prevalent concern for many women.

According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), 20-25% of women of reproductive age have fibroids. By the age of 50, up to 80% of black women and up to 70% of white women have fibroids.

The physical changes caused by fibroids can be misleading. A significantly enlarged uterus due to fibroids can mimic the appearance of a pregnant belly.

Additionally, hormonal fluctuations associated with fibroids might lead to some women experiencing symptoms like nausea or breast tenderness, fueling the misconception of pregnancy.

Fibroids: Causes and Characteristics

The exact cause of fibroids remains unknown, but several factors are believed to contribute to their development.

These include:

● Hormonal Imbalances: Estrogen and progesterone are key players in fibroid growth. During childbearing years, these hormones naturally fluctuate. Some evidence suggests that prolonged exposure to estrogen, due to factors like obesity or using birth control pills for an extended period, might increase fibroid risk.

● Genetic Predisposition: Having a family history of fibroids increases your chances of developing them.

● Other Factors: Age, ethnicity (African American women are more likely to develop fibroids), and certain lifestyle choices may also play a role.

Symptoms and Signs of Fibroids

The size and location of fibroids significantly impact symptoms. Small fibroids might not cause any noticeable issues, while larger ones can lead to:

● Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods, bleeding between periods, and spotting are common symptoms.

● Pelvic Pain and Pressure: Fibroids can cause pain in the lower abdomen, pelvis, or lower back, especially during menstruation.

● Abdominal Distension: Larger fibroids can enlarge the uterus, leading to a distended abdomen.

● Urinary Frequency or Difficulty Urinating: Fibroids located near the bladder can irritate it, causing frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder completely.

● Pregnancy Complications: In some cases, fibroids can affect fertility or increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, or other pregnancy complications.

Treatment Options for Fibroids

Treatment options for fibroids depend on various factors, including the size, location, and severity of symptoms. Some common approaches include:

● Medications: Medications like hormonal birth control pills or Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists can help regulate hormones and shrink fibroids.

● Minimally Invasive Procedures: Procedures like uterine artery embolization (UAE) or myolysis use targeted techniques to shrink fibroids without major surgery.

● Surgery: In some cases, surgery such as myomectomy (removal of fibroids) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) might be recommended.

While fibroids are a common condition, they shouldn't be ignored. If you experience abdominal distension or any other symptoms suggestive of fibroids, consulting a healthcare professional is crucial. Early diagnosis and management can significantly improve your quality of life.