Fibroids are masses that occur in the uterus and are mostly benign. These masses, which can affect women's reproductive health, may cause menstrual irregularities, groin pain, infertility and urinary problems in some patients, while in some cases they do not cause symptoms.
Contents
What is fibroids?
Fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) tumors that occur in the uterus. They usually do not cause symptoms, but when they grow, they can cause painful periods, irregular bleeding and even infertility.
Fibroids come in different sizes. Some are a few millimeters, while others can reach the size of an orange. They usually shrink after menopause, but in some cases they can continue to grow. They can form inside the uterus, on the uterine wall or on its outer surface and can cause different symptoms depending on where they are located.
Why do fibroids form?
Although the exact cause of fibroids is unknown, some factors are thought to trigger fibroid formation:
- Hormonal Imbalances: High levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones can cause fibroids to grow.
- Genetic Predisposition: It is more common in women with a family history of fibroids.
- Overweight and Obesity: Fat tissue can increase the risk of developing fibroids by increasing estrogen production.
- Having Never Gave Birth: Women who have never given birth are more likely to have fibroids.
- Early Menstruation: Women who menstruate early during puberty have a higher risk of fibroids.
What are the Symptoms of Fibroids?
Fibroids are not always symptomatic, but depending on their size and location in the uterus, they can cause some symptoms.
- Painful and heavy menstrual bleeding
- Menstrual irregularities
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Frequent urination or incontinence (if the fibroid presses on the bladder)
- Constipation (if it presses on the intestines)
- Pain and swelling in the abdomen and groin area
- Anemia (due to intense bleeding)
- Risk of infertility or miscarriage
How are fibroids diagnosed?
How are fibroids diagnosed?
Fibroids are usually detected during a routine gynecological examination. The following methods are used for definitive diagnosis.
Ultrasound: Used to determine the size and location of fibroids in the uterus.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance): Provides detailed visualization of fibroids.
Uterine Film (HSG): Shows whether fibroids are causing blockage of the tubes.
Biopsy: Can be done to determine whether fibroids are cancerous (necessary in very rare cases).
How is fibroids treated?
The treatment of fibroids depends on the patient's age, the size of the fibroid, symptoms and plans to have children.
Small fibroids without symptoms: They are followed up and monitored for growth.
Fibroids that cause intense bleeding and pain: Medication, hormone therapy or surgical intervention may be needed.
Fibroids Preventing Pregnancy: Can be removed by laparoscopic myomectomy (closed surgery) or hysteroscopic myomectomy.
Methods Used in the Treatment of Fibroids:
- Medication: Hormone-regulating drugs can help fibroids shrink. Birth control pills can control excessive bleeding. Hormonal spirals can reduce the amount of bleeding.
- Laparoscopic Myomectomy (Closed Surgery): It is a surgical method performed through small incisions. The uterus is protected while fibroids are removed. It is suitable for patients who want to have children.
- Hysteroscopic Myomectomy: It is a non-surgical method in which fibroids in the uterus are removed vaginally. It is applied to prevent fibroids from pressing on the uterus.
- Removal of the Uterus (Hysterectomy): Suitable for patients with very large fibroids or severe symptoms. When the uterus is removed, fibroids do not grow back. It can be considered for women who do not plan to have children.
- Embolization Method: The vessels feeding the fibroids are closed and the fibroids shrink. It is a non-surgical method and is generally preferred in patients who have given birth.
What happens if fibroids are not treated?
Untreated fibroids can grow over time and seriously threaten women's health.
- Irregularity and intensity of menstrual bleeding may increase.
- It can increase the risk of infertility by pressing the uterus.
- It can cause problems such as frequent urination and constipation by pressing on the urinary tract and intestines.
- It can increase the risk of miscarriage and premature birth during pregnancy.
Timely diagnosis of fibroids and controlling them with appropriate treatment prevents the progression of the disease and improves the woman's quality of life.
Are Fibroids Dangerous?
Fibroids are mostly harmless and the risk of developing into a malignant tumor is very rare. However, in some cases they can cause serious health problems.
When are fibroids dangerous?
- Rapidly growing fibroids can disrupt the structure of the uterus and increase the risk of infertility.
- They can cause excessive bleeding and pose a risk of anemia (anemia).
- It can cause problems such as frequent urination and constipation by pressing on the urinary tract or intestines.
- During pregnancy, fibroids can increase the risk of miscarriage or premature birth.
If fibroids cause problems such as severe menstrual cramps, heavy bleeding, pain during sexual intercourse or inability to get pregnant, you should consult a gynecologist.
