Fibroids

One of the most common conditions affecting women is Uterine Fibroids. These are medically termed as leiomyomas (myomas). These are nothing but, noncancerous growths that develops in the muscle of the uterus/womb.

Fibroids range in size from seedlings, undetectable by the human eye, to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. You can have a single fibroid or multiple ones. In extreme cases, multiple fibroids can expand the uterus so much that it reaches the rib cage and can add weight. Many women have uterine fibroids sometime during their lives. But you might not know you have uterine fibroids because they often cause no symptoms. Your doctor may discover fibroids incidentally during a pelvic exam or prenatal ultrasound.

What could be the risk factors?

The factors that enhance the risk of developing uterine fibroids include the following:

Being a woman of reproductive age
Family history of uterine fibroids
Onset of menstruation at an early age
Diet high in red meat and lower in green leafy vegetables
Vitamin D deficiency
Consumption of alcohol
Being obese
Being an Indian

What are the symptoms?

Mostly, uterine fibroids do not cause any symptoms. The symptoms may occur depending on the location, size, and number fibroids. Here are some symptoms of uterine fibroids:

Heavy menstrual bleeding
Increased urination
Menstruation lasting more than a week
Difficulty emptying the bladder
Constipation
Swelling of the abdomen
Increased menstrual cramping
Backache or leg pains

What tests can be done?

In most of the cases, uterine fibroid remains unnoticed and discovered incidentally during a routine check-up. If your doctor suspects uterine fibroids, any of the following tests might be ordered to confirm the diagnosis.

Are there any complications?

Uterine fibroids may not lead to life-threatening complications; however, it may cause discomfort. The presence of fibroids in the uterus may cause heavy blood loss during menstruation, and this may lead to iron deficiency anaemia. In pregnant women, uterine fibroids may increase the risk of placental abruption, preterm delivery, and inadequate development of the foetus. Very rarely it can turn into cancer.

What are the available treatment options?

Uterine artery embolization: The procedure involves injection of certain medications that stop the blood flow to the fibroids allowing them to shrink
Myomectomy: The procedure involves excision of fibroids using a laparoscope (keyhole surgery) or open surgery (laparotomy). During the procedure, the fibroids are broken into small pieces and are then removed.
Medical Management
Hysterectomy