Understanding Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are common non-cancerous growths of the uterus that can cause a variety of symptoms. Despite their prevalence, many people are unaware of what fibroids are, how they develop, and the potential treatment options available. In this blog, we'll delve into the details of uterine fibroids, including their symptoms, causes, and the latest treatment options.

What are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that develop in the uterus. They are made up of muscle cells and other tissues that grow within the wall of the uterus. While they are not cancerous, they can cause discomfort and, in some cases, serious complications.

Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

The symptoms of uterine fibroids can vary widely among individuals. Some may experience no symptoms at all, while others may have severe symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life. Common symptoms include:

• Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Fibroids can cause heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding, leading to anemia in some cases.
• Pelvic Pain and Pressure: As fibroids grow, they can press against neighboring organs, causing pelvic pain, pressure, or fullness.
• Frequent Urination: Large fibroids can put pressure on the bladder, leading to a frequent need to urinate.
• Pain During Intercourse: Fibroids can cause discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.
• Lower Back Pain: Some women with fibroids experience lower back pain or generalized abdominal pain.
• Infertility or Pregnancy Complications: Depending on their size and location, fibroids can interfere with fertility or lead to complications during pregnancy, such as a higher risk of miscarriage or preterm labor.

Causes of Uterine Fibroids

The exact cause of uterine fibroids is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to their development:

• Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone, hormones that stimulate the development of the uterine lining during each menstrual cycle, may promote the growth of fibroids.
• Genetic Predisposition: If your mother or sister had fibroids, you may be at increased risk of developing them.
• Pregnancy: Women who have been pregnant may have a lower risk of developing fibroids.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

If you suspect you have uterine fibroids based on your symptoms, it's essential to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. Your doctor may perform a pelvic exam, ultrasound, MRI, or other imaging tests to confirm the presence of fibroids.

Treatment options for uterine fibroids depend on the size, number, and location of the fibroids, as well as your symptoms and desire for future pregnancy. Here are some common

treatment approaches:

Watchful Waiting: Watchful waiting is a cautious approach recommended for individuals with no symptoms or mild symptoms associated with uterine fibroids. During this period, doctors monitor the fibroids over time without initiating immediate treatment. This strategy is particularly suitable for cases where fibroids are not significantly impacting the individual's quality of life. Regular check-ups and discussions with healthcare providers are essential during watchful waiting. This allows for the tracking of any changes in symptoms or the size of the fibroids. If symptoms worsen or the fibroids grow, alternative treatment options can be considered based on the individual's condition.

Medications: Hormonal medications, such as birth control pills or hormone-releasing intrauterine devices (IUDs), are commonly prescribed to manage symptoms associated with uterine fibroids. These medications work by regulating the menstrual cycle, reducing the overgrowth of the uterine lining, and potentially shrinking fibroids over time. Oral contraceptives and progestin-releasing IUDs are two types of hormonal medications used for this purpose. While they are non-invasive and convenient for many, it's important to note that they may come with side effects such as weight gain, breast tenderness, or mood changes. Patients should discuss these options with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on their individual needs and circumstances.

Non-Invasive Procedures: For individuals seeking non-invasive treatment options, procedures such as uterine artery embolization (UAE) and focused ultrasound surgery (FUS) are available. These procedures offer effective ways to shrink fibroids or reduce symptoms without the need for surgery.

• Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE): This procedure involves blocking the blood supply to the fibroids by injecting tiny particles through a catheter. Without a blood supply, the fibroids shrink over time, leading to symptom relief.
• Focused Ultrasound Surgery (FUS): FUS uses focused ultrasound waves to heat and destroy small areas of fibroid tissue. This procedure is guided by MRI for precision, and it is non-invasive, meaning it does not require incisions.

Both UAE and FUS are advantageous because they are minimally invasive, resulting in shorter recovery times compared to traditional surgery. However, not all fibroids are suitable for these treatments, and some individuals may experience temporary side effects such as cramping, nausea, or fever after the procedure.

Surgical Removal (Myomectomy): In cases where fibroids are large or causing severe symptoms that impact the individual's quality of life, surgery may be necessary. Myomectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at removing the fibroids while preserving the uterus. There are different types of myomectomy procedures, including laparoscopic and hysteroscopic, depending on the location of the fibroids.

• Laparoscopic Myomectomy: This minimally invasive surgery involves making small incisions and using a camera (laparoscope) to remove the fibroids.
• Hysteroscopic Myomectomy: This procedure is used for fibroids inside the uterine cavity. It involves removing fibroids through the cervix without the need for incisions.

Myomectomy provides relief from symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure. It also preserves fertility for individuals who wish to maintain the possibility of future pregnancies. However, there is a risk of fibroids recurring, especially in cases where there are multiple fibroids.

Hysterectomy: Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the uterus and is considered a definitive treatment for uterine fibroids, especially in severe cases where other treatments have not been effective or when fertility is not a concern.

• Total Hysterectomy: This procedure involves the removal of the uterus and cervix.
• Partial Hysterectomy: In a partial hysterectomy, the uterus is removed while leaving the cervix intact.
• Radical Hysterectomy: This procedure involves the removal of the uterus, cervix, upper part of the vagina, and surrounding tissues, usually for cancer treatment.

Hysterectomy provides a permanent solution for fibroids, eliminating the possibility of fibroids returning. It effectively treats symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure. However, it is important to note that hysterectomy is irreversible and will result in the inability to become pregnant. Recovery time for hysterectomy is generally longer compared to less invasive procedures.

Struggling with uterine fibroids? Take the first step towards relief today! Contact Dr. Sunita Arora, a trusted Gynaecologist in Delhi, for expert care and personalized treatment options. Dr. Sunita Arora specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of uterine fibroids, offering a range of options tailored to your needs. Whether you're experiencing symptoms or seeking guidance on managing fibroids, Dr. Sunita Arora is here to help.