uterine fibroids: do you know the signs?

fibroids are a common type of abnormal growth or tumour that appear in or on the uterus. these growths, which are composed of muscle and connective tissue from the uterine lining, are usually benign (not cancerous).

although doctors have been unable to determine the exact cause of fibroids, estrogen and progesterone — two hormones that stimulate the lining of the uterus — seem to make them grow, according to healthlink bc . they commonly appear during a woman’s reproductive years and can range in size from barely visible to bulky masses that affect the shape of the uterus. they may also grow or shrink over time, with these developments typically tied to the level of hormones in the body. it is estimated that more than 50 per cent of women have fibroids, even though many experience no symptoms and are never even aware of their presence.

symptoms of uterine fibroids

• abnormal menstrual bleeding — includes heavier, prolonged periods; painful periods; and bleeding and spotting before or after periods
• pelvic pain or pressure — includes feeling bloated or general discomfort; or experiencing pain during sexual intercourse
• urinary issues — includes urinary leakage, the need to pee frequently or difficulty emptying the bladder; and, in rare cases, kidney blockage
• other symptoms — includes painful bowel movements; difficulty getting pregnant or issues during pregnancy

diagnosing uterine fibroids

fibroids are often discovered during a routine pelvic exam (where doctors can actually feel the abnormalities) but there are a number of tests healthcare providers may use to facilitate diagnosis. according to the mayo clinic , these can include:

• imaging tests — an ultrasound, transvaginal ultrasound, hysteroscopy, mri or ct scan can all provide more detailed images of the uterus and other internal organs
• lab tests — these may be ordered to investigate the presence of abnormal bleeding and to rule out other conditions

treating uterine fibroids

• watchful waiting — because fibroids aren’t cancerous, rarely pose problems to a pregnancy and often shrink after menopause, women with few or no symptoms may be advised to simply monitor the situation and seek medical attention only when needed
• medications — drugs typically target the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle and help alleviate pelvic pressure and heavy menstrual bleeding. while they can’t get rid of fibroids, they may decrease their size.
• non-invasive procedures — mri-guided forced ultrasound surgery may be used to locate and destroy small areas of fibroid tissue
• surgery — a number of procedures — up to and including the complete removal of the uterus — are available to address symptoms. a hysterectomy is currently the only permanent solution to fibroids but, as this removes the possibility of a future pregnancy, it may not be the best option for many patients

preventing uterine fibroids

prevalence of uterine fibroids

fibroids affect between 20 and 40 per cent of canadian women during their reproductive years, the majority of which never experience symptoms, according to one study . the likelihood of the condition increases with age, however, and as many as 80 per cent of women may experience it by age 70, according to global news .

support for uterine fibroids

for more news and information about uterine fibroids, visit healthlink bc .

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uterine fibroids: do you know the signs?

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