In the US, around 26 million women aged between 15 and 50 suffer from uterine fibroids Houston, TX. About 25%-50% of these women have symptomatic fibroids characterized by heavy menses, frequent urination, anemia, pain, and reproductive issues.
Fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in the muscle layer of the uterus. They usually grow in clusters and can be as small as a pea or as large as a melon. Fibroids can occur in women who have never had a baby, although they tend to be more common in those with children.
Below are the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options for fibroids:
Age: Fibroids are more common in women in their childbearing years. They’re most likely to develop before menopause (ages 40 to 50) but can occur at any age.
Family history of fibroids or endometriosis: Women with a family history of fibroids may be more likely to develop the condition themselves. Women with a mother or sister with endometriosis have an increased risk of developing fibroids.
High blood pressure: High blood pressure increases your risk of developing abdominal aortic aneurysms and uterine artery stenosis (narrowing in the arteries that supply blood to the uterus), which can cause fibroid growths in the uterus.
Obesity: Excess body fat can cause hormonal changes that make it easier for fibroids to grow larger than normal. Losing weight may reduce the size of existing fibroids or prevent new ones from forming.
Pregnancy: If you have a history of pregnancy loss (miscarriage or stillbirth), you may have a higher risk of developing fibroids later in life. Women who’ve had many pregnancies over time also have an increased risk of developing fibroids at some point during their reproductive years. This may be related to the amount of estrogen produced during each pregnancy or the effect of hormones on uterine muscle cells after delivery.
What are the symptoms of fibroids?
- Pain in your abdomen or lower back
- A heavier-than-normal period
- Bleeding between periods
- Painful intercourse
- Incontinence from urination
- Constipation or diarrhea
What is the best treatment for fibroids?
Myomectomy
Myomectomy is the surgical removal of fibroids. It is typically performed in women who want to become pregnant because this procedure can reduce the risk of miscarriage by up to 50%. For this reason, it is often recommended for women with fibroids that are not causing symptoms.
Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the uterus and can sometimes include the cervix and ovaries. Some women choose this option because they don’t want more children or because their fibroids make them extremely uncomfortable. If you have fibroids that cause heavy bleeding or if they’re causing pain, you may want to talk to your doctor about a hysterectomy. This surgery removes the uterus and fibroids.
Fibroids can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pain during menstruation and sexual intercourse, and infertility. Fibroids also can cause problems with urination and bladder control. Treatment options depend on the size and location of your fibroid and its effect on your quality of life. For help, reach out to Alate Health.
