Fibroids
What are fibroids?
Fibroids are abnormal growths that develop in or on a woman’s uterus. Sometimes these tumors become quite large and cause severe abdominal pain and heavy periods. In other cases, they cause no signs or symptoms at all. The growths are typically benign or noncancerous. The cause of fibroids is unknown. Fibroids are also known by the following names:
- Leiomyomas
- Myomas
- Uterine myomas
- Fibromas
Fibroids are very common amongst women in Ghana. However, most women do not have any symptoms and may never know they have fibroids.
What are the different types of fibroids?
The type of fibroid a woman develops depends on its location in or on the uterus.
- Intramural fibroids
Intramural fibroids are the most common type of fibroid. These types appear within the muscular wall of the uterus. Intramural fibroids may grow larger and can stretch your womb. - Subserosal fibroids
Subserosal fibroids form on the outside of your uterus, which is called the serosa. They may grow large enough to make your womb appear bigger on one side. - Pedunculated fibroids
Subserosal tumors can develop a stem, a slender base that supports the tumor. When they do, they’re known as pedunculated fibroids. - Submucosal fibroids
These types of tumors develop in the middle muscle layer, or myometrium, of your uterus. Submucosal tumors aren’t as common as the other types.
What causes fibroids?
It’s unclear why fibroids develop, but several factors may influence their formation.
- Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone are the hormones produced by the ovaries. They cause the uterine lining to regenerate during each menstrual cycle and may stimulate the growth of fibroids.
- Family history: If your mother, sister, or grandmother has a history of this condition, you may develop it as well.
- Pregnancy: Pregnancy increases the production of estrogen and progesterone in your body. Fibroids may develop and grow rapidly while you’re pregnant.
- Age of 30 or older
- High body weight
What are the misconceptions about Fibroids?
Not all fibroids have to be removed. A good majority of fibroids can be left alone, provided there are no symptoms. Fibroids are not formed by dirty or stagnant menstrual blood, hence medications or preparations that are sold to melt “dirty blood” may actually cause more harm than good.
Can you get pregnant when you have fibroids?
Approximately 5% – 10% of infertile women have fibroids. Fibroids can make getting pregnant difficult. The position of the fibroids (particularly submucosal and intramural) may block sperms from entering the uterine cavity or block the opening of the fallopian tubes. Some fibroids can distort the shape of the uterine cavity and cause sperm to travel a longer distance or prevent a successful implantation after fertilisation has occurred.
When pregnant with fibroids, increased hormonal production of estrogen and progesterone may cause rapid growth of fibroids. The size and position of these fibroids are considered when making a decision on the mode of delivery.
What are the symptoms of fibroids?
Your symptoms will depend on the number of tumors you have as well as their location and size. For instance, submucosal fibroid (fibroid develops in the inner layer of the uterus) may cause heavy menstrual bleeding and trouble conceiving. Symptoms of fibroids may include:
- Heavy bleeding between or during your periods that includes blood clots
- Pain in the pelvis or lower back
- Increased menstrual cramping
- Increased urination
- Pain during intercourse
- Menstruation that lasts longer than usual
- Pressure or fullness in your lower abdomen
- Swelling or enlargement of the abdomen
How are fibroids diagnosed?
For a proper diagnosis, you will need to see a gynecologist to get a pelvic examination. This examination is used to check the condition, size, and shape of your uterus. You may also need other tests, which include:
- Abdominopelvic Ultrasound
- Transvaginal Ultrasound
- Pelvic MRI
How can fibroids be treated?
In general, you cannot Dietary changes are very helpful. Avoid meats and high-calorie foods. Instead, opt for foods high in flavonoids, green vegetables, green tea, and cold-water fish such as tuna or salmon. Managing your stress levels and losing weight if you are overweight can also benefit women with fibroids. There are medications which are available to stop menstruation and shrink fibroids.
Other options that can help control bleeding and pain, but will not shrink or eliminate fibroids, include:
- An intrauterine device (IUD) that releases the hormone progestin
- Over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil)
- Birth control pills
- Surgery to remove very large or multiple growths may be performed. This is known as a myomectomy.
Fibroids may however grow back after surgery.
