21/10/2020
What are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are benign (noncancerous) tumors made of muscle cells and connective tissue that grow in a female patient’s uterus (womb). They are common among women in their childbearing years. In fact, some studies report that 20 to 80 percent of women have fibroids at the age of 50. Fibroids can cause several symptoms depending on their location, size and proximity to the adjacent pelvic organs. Some of the most common symptoms include pain and pressure in the lower abdominal area and abnormal bleeding during menstruation.
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
If a uterine fibroid causes symptoms, the most probable signs include:
Prolonged menstrual periods
Pelvic pain and pressure
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Severe and painful periods
There are different types of uterine fibroids depending on where they develop and they may cause different symptoms.
For example, intramural fibroids grow in the wall of the womb, while submucosal fibroids develop directly under the lining of the womb. Submucosal fibroids are more likely to cause heavy menstrual bleeding. Subserosal fibroids develop on the outer wall of the womb and intraligamentary fibroids develop in the tissue next to it. In addition, cervical fibroids develop in the cervix.
If the fibroid is large, it can put pressure on the bladder or bowels, possibly causing constipation or difficult and frequent urination. The growths may also put pressure on the patient’s back and cause back pain.
Causes & Risk Factors for Uterine Fibroids
Hormones
Family History
Age, Race & Ethnicity
Weight & Obesity
Diet
Childbearing & Birth Control
Certain types of fibroids may affect fertility, but researchers estimate that only 1 to 2 percent of infertility cases result from uterine fibroids. They may also cause complications during pregnancy in some cases, possibly increasing the risk of miscarriage or premature births. Patients may also be more likely to give birth by Cesarean section.
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