uterine fibroids: do you know the signs?

between 20 and 40 per cent of women in canada have fibroids, but many never experience symptoms.

by dave yasvinski

published jan 10, 2023

last updated feb 20, 2023

4 minute read

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4 minute read

join the conversation

how do i know if i have uterine fibroids?

an ultrasound can provide more detailed images of the uterus for a uterine fibroids diagnosis. getty

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.

fibroids, which are also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are usually not dangerous and do not require treatment unless they begin to cause to problems. if they produce pain or discomfort, they may need to be removed.

symptoms of uterine fibroids

signs of fibroids can vary from patient to patient depending on the number and location of the growths. symptoms can develop slowly over years or never appear at all. when they do present, however, they can include:

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

complications from fibroids can include anemia (from heavy bleeding); problems with the urinary tract or bowels (from proximity to fibroids); infertility; and lower back pain or pressure. you should seek medical attention if you have enduring pelvic pain, frequent (or painful) urination and heavy (or painful) periods.

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

the manner in which healthcare professionals address fibroids can vary between patients but common options include:

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

as the cause of fibroids is not fully understood, it is not currently possible to prevent them. it is believed you can decrease your risk by making certain lifestyle choices, including maintaining a healthy weight and eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. previous research has suggested that hormonal contraceptives may be related to a lower risk of fibroids.

risk factors for fibroids include obesity, a family history of the condition, early onset of menstruation (or late onset of menopause) and not having children.

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.

dave yasvinski is a writer with healthing

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dave yasvinski

uterine fibroids: do you know the signs?