Written by Kelly Thompson. Reviewed by Lisa Morgan. It’s Fibroids Awareness Month! Let’s take a closer look at fibroids and share some useful tips for managing the discomfort they can cause while also understanding their effects on fertility.
What Are Fibroids?
First things first, what exactly are fibroids? Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths on the wall of the uterus, composed of smooth muscle cells and other materials. No need to panic—these growths are the most common type of non-cancerous tumors found in women of reproductive age and they often don’t cause any symptoms.
Awareness of Fibroids
Despite being incredibly common—two out of three women will experience them at some point—only 39% of women and girls are aware of fibroids, according to a 2023 census from the Wellbeing of Women. This highlights the need for greater awareness, especially during Fibroids Awareness Month, which aims to inspire more research into fibroids for quicker diagnosis and improved treatments!
Symptoms of Fibroids
Not everyone with fibroids will experience discomfort, but those who do may face various symptoms, including:
- Heavy bleeding or painful periods
- Pelvic pressure
- Pain during intercourse
- Bleeding between periods
- Lower back pain
Fibroids can also lead to anemia, frequent urination, infertility, early labor, and an increased likelihood of requiring a cesarean section during delivery.
Causes & Diagnosis of Fibroids
Before we explore treatment options, it’s essential to know what causes fibroids and how they’re diagnosed. The exact cause of fibroids remains unclear. However, they’ve been linked to estrogen levels, as these growths typically develop around the time of menopause when estrogen is at its peak. After menopause, when estrogen levels drop, fibroids usually shrink.
To determine if you have fibroids, your doctor might use several diagnostic methods:
- Pelvic Exam: The initial step where your doctor checks for irregularities in the uterus’s shape and size.
- Ultrasound: A common imaging technique using sound waves to visualize the uterus and identify fibroids.
- MRI: Offers detailed images and helps assess the size and number of fibroids.
- Hysterosonography: A specialized ultrasound that involves injecting saline into the uterus for clearer images.
- Hysteroscopy: A procedure where a small telescope is inserted through the cervix to examine the inside of the uterus.
Discussing these diagnostic options with your healthcare provider can help you decide the best approach for your unique situation. Since fibroids are often asymptomatic, they are frequently discovered during routine gynecological exams followed by an ultrasound confirmation.
Fertility and Fibroids
Fibroids can affect fertility and pregnancy, depending on their size and location. Here’s how:
- Infertility: Large fibroids or those altering the uterine cavity can hinder embryo implantation, potentially resulting in infertility.
- Pregnancy Complications: Fibroids may increase the risks of miscarriage, preterm labor, and placental abruption. They can also complicate labor, sometimes necessitating a cesarean section.
If you’re planning to conceive, it’s vital to discuss treatment options with your doctor. Some treatments, like a myomectomy, aim to remove fibroids while preserving fertility, whereas others, like a hysterectomy, will prevent any future pregnancies.
Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids
Fibroids tend to grow slowly, and some may even shrink on their own, especially after menopause. However, if they cause discomfort or affect your reproductive health, treatment might be necessary. Here are some options:
- Medications: Prescription medications can help manage symptoms associated with heavy or painful periods and sometimes lead to fibroid shrinkage.
- Hormonal Birth Control: Available in various forms, these can help control heavy bleeding, although they may encourage fibroid growth.
- Progestin-Only Devices: Such as IUDs, these are effective for alleviating heavy bleeding and are recommended for large fibroids.
- Hormone Agonists: These medications block hormone production, reducing fibroid size.
For more insights, check out this blog post on essential grooming tips. Also, Make a Mom provides an authoritative source on at-home insemination kits that can assist you in your journey. Additionally, ACOG is an excellent resource for information on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
Fibroids are common growths that can impact women’s health and fertility. While they are often asymptomatic, awareness and understanding of treatment options are crucial for those affected. Consulting with your healthcare provider can help navigate the best course of action tailored to your needs.