Abnormal but Normal
4th Dec 2018
Fibroids – get to know it
Fibroids is one of those health conditions that is a medical mystery as the cause of it is still unknown.
Before we throw medical facts and tips at you, let us explain to you what “fibroids” are.
They are growths that develop in or around a woman’s uterus. These growths are abnormal but non-cancerous and are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue. They vary in size, at times these tumors can be large and may cause pain and discomfort, however, at times, they don’t cause any signs or symptoms at all.
Never even heard of “fibroids” until now? Here is why.
Studies show that up to 80% of women have fibroids by the age of 50. But, majority of women that have fibroids do not have any symptoms and due to this, it is likely that they may never even know that they have fibroids.
So, even though fibroids are abnormal growths, they are still quite normal amongst women.
Hence, Abnormal but Normal.
Other names for fibroids:
- Leiomyomas, myomas, uterine myomas, and fibromas
Symptoms
- Severe abdominal pain
- Heavy periods
- Increased urination
- Lower back pain
- Discomfort or pain during sex
Factors that increase the risk of fibroids
Although the exact cause for fibroids has not been pinpointed, there are factors that make women more prone to having fibroids. These factors include:
1. Obesity – overweight women are at higher risk for fibroids.
2. Age - peak age for fibroids is the 30s and 40s, and through menopause.
3. Family’s medical history – if your mother had fibroids, your risk of having them is approximately three times higher than average.
4. Diet – if you are a big meat eater, especially red meat like beef and lamb, you are more prone to fibroids. Eating a lot of greens is likely to protect you from developing fibroids
5. Hormones – estrogen and progesterone may stimulate the growth of fibroids.
Types of fibroids:
All fibroids are developed on the uterus, but the exact location varies.
Here are the different types:
1. Submucosal fibroids –tumors that develop in the middle muscle layer of the uterus. A rare type.
2. Intramural fibroids – they form within the muscular wall of the uterus. The most common type. Has the ability to stretch your womb if grows larger.
3. Pedunculated fibroids – tumors that are attached to the uterine wall by stems. Can be painful if the stem/peduncle twists.
4. Subserosal fibroids – forms on the outside of the uterus. Can grow very large that it makes the womb bigger on one side.
Treatment for fibroids
These treatment options are more for women with symptoms and it is always suggested to consult a doctor before going ahead with any medication or surgical procedures.
1. Medication –NSAIDs for pain and hemostatic agent for bleeding.
2. Surgical procedures – For severe symptoms surgical procedures might be required like Myomectomy and hysterectomy.
Have a better idea of what fibroids are after reading this? We sure hope so! If you have any queries, please feel free to reach us at Facebook or Instagram.
References
1. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/fibroids/
2. https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/uterine-fibroids
3. https://www.healthline.com/health/uterine-fibroids#causes
4. https://fibroids.com/blog/breaking-news/156-pedunculated-fibroids-and-the-benefits-of-uae/#:~:text=Pedunculated%20fibroids%20are%20non%2Dcancerous,known%20as%20subserous%20pedunculated%20fibroids.
5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/uterine-fibroids/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354294