Uterine fibroids, or leiomyomas or myomas, don’t raise the risk of uterine cancer and rarely become a disease. Fibroids can also be small enough so they are not invisible to the naked eye or are big enough to stretch and enlarge to the size of a large organ. In severe instances, numerous fibroids can cause the uterus to enlarge to the point where it touches the rib cage. Let’s learn more.
Symptoms of uterine fibroids
Many women with uterine fibroids have no signs at all. Fibroids’ location, size, and quantity also vary in those who show few symptoms. The most typical uterine fibroids symptoms and indications in women who experience them are as follows:
- Heavy bleeding during the period
- Longer than a week of menstrual cycles
- Pelvic pain or discomfort
- Constipation
- Leg or backaches
Causes of uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids have an unknown cause, but research and clinical experience indicate the following factors:
Gene mutation
Numerous fibroids have gene alterations distinct from those in normal uterine muscle cells.
Hormones
The two hormones estrogen and progesterone, which encourage the uterine lining to develop during each menstrual period in preparation for pregnancy, also appear to encourage the growth of fibroids. Compared to normal uterine muscle cells, fibroids have a higher concentration of estrogen and progesterone receptors. As hormone output declines after menopause, fibroids frequently get smaller.
Extracellular matrix (ECM)
ECM is the substance that binds cells together, much like mortar holds blocks together. Increased ECM renders fibroids more fibrous. Additionally, the ECM holds growth factors and modifies the biology of cells. According to medical professionals, uterine fibroids originate from a progenitor cell in the smooth muscle of the uterus. Multiple divisions of a single cell form a firm, rubbery mass separate from the tissue around it. Uterine fibroids can develop slowly, quickly, or stay the same size. Their growth patterns are variable. Some fibroids experience growth surges, while others may naturally contract. After delivery, as the uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy size, many fibroids present during pregnancy shrink or vanish.
Treatment options for uterine fibroids
The severity of the symptoms caused by uterine fibroids and their size, number, and location can influence the course of treatment for this condition. You might not need treatment if you don’t have any symptoms from your fibroids. However, small fibroids can frequently be untouched. Some people never have any problems or symptoms associated with fibroids. Knowing the uterine fibroids cause it can be treated in several ways, including:
Non-invasive procedure
A non-invasive, outpatient procedure that doesn’t require an incision and keeps your uterus intact for the therapy of uterine fibroids. Therapy is carried out while you are inside an MRI scanner that has a high-energy ultrasound transducer. Your specialist can precisely locate uterine fibroids.
Embolization of the uterine artery
The arteries that supply the uterus are injected with small particles known as emboli, which stop blood flow to fibroids and cause them to shrink and die.
Radiofrequency removal
Radiofrequency energy is used to shrink the blood vessels that supply uterine fibroids and eliminate them. This can be accomplished during a transcervical or laparoscopic procedure. A comparable technique called cryo myolysis freezes the fibroids.
Uterine fibroids’ prevention techniques
Generally speaking, fibroids cannot be avoided. You can lower your risk by maintaining a healthy weight and having regular pelvic exams. Make a plan with your doctor to monitor any small fibroids you may have.
Get help to cure the disease
Numerous individuals develop uterine fibroids at some point in their lives. Fibroids can be small enough not to cause any symptoms in some cases. Fibroids can occasionally present with challenging symptoms. Book an appointment with a doctor if you face any discomfort. Fibroids can be treated, and your symptoms often get better.
Conclusion
Since fibroids cannot be prevented, some research studies suggest that certain lifestyle habits can reduce the chances. For example, besides following a well-balanced meal filled with fresh fruits and cruciferous vegetables, regular exercise can lower the chances of fibroids.
