Uterine fibroids are the most common type of benign smooth muscle tumors found in women. These fibroids are abnormal growths in the uterus made up of muscle and connective tissue that commonly appear in the childbearing years of women.
Fibroids can be as small as the grape seed or as big as the grapefruit itself and in very rare cases they can develop in large sizes as well. They can grow as one single tumour or as multiple ones right at the same time in the uterus. Though these fibroids are non-cancerous, they can develop into large tissues inside the uterus and can cause heavy periods, abdominal pain and other reproductive problems.
Uterine fibroids and Pregnancy:
The case of uterine fibroids is also investigated for infertility since the fibroids can make it difficult to pregnant. Though these fibroids do not interfere with the ovulation process, the fibroids can impair the uterine cavity making it difficult for conception, sometimes even causing miscarriages. Hyderabad’s leading gynaecologist Dr.M.Sushma is a specialist in the treatment of uterine fibroids that cause infertility problems among women.
Symptoms of Uterine fibroids:
The symptoms and signs of the uterine fibroids depend on a variety of factors. It is estimated that around 60% of the women develop fibroids in their lifetime and yet most of them do not show signs, symptoms or problems. Moreover, the symptoms depend on the size, age, number and location of the fibroid in the uterus.
For example, if the size of the tumour is small and it has found its way in the uterus right when the women are going through the menopause, the tumour may shrink in size after menopause without causing any further problems. If the same tumors develop in women of active reproductive age, the progression of the tumour and its impact will be different.
As said some of the women may even not know about the fibroids since they do not experience symptoms. And among the women who do, here are some of the common signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids experienced by them:
> Heavy and painful & irregular menstrual bleeding.
> Intensive pelvic pain & pressure.
> Infrequent urination and other urinary problems.
> Prolonged menstrual periods lasting more than a week.
> Constipation, leg & back pains.
> Miscarriages & pain during intercourse.
> Difficulty to conceive & get pregnant.
Diagnosis & Treatment for Uterine Fibroids:
Uterine fibroids are incidentally found during the routine pelvic examination by the gynaecologist. If the women suffer any of the above signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids, the gynaecologist uses the ultrasound and other imaging tests to diagnose the condition.
The treatment of uterine fibroids depends on the signs, symptoms, location and the impact of uterine fibroids on the quality of life of the patient. Observation with medication, non-invasive surgical options, minimally invasive surgery or traditional surgery procedures are common treatment options of uterine fibroids employed by the gynaecologists depending upon the condition of the patient.
