Symptoms Of Fibroids And Treatment
During a woman’s reproductive years, she may develop fibroids, which are also called uterine leiomyomas or myomas. These growths are not cancerous.
Fibroid symptoms can range from mild to severe, though many women with fibroids don’t feel anything at all. Treatment options vary based on the severity of symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, and the individual’s overall health.
Keep in mind that the type of treatment chosen depends on a number of things, such as how bad the symptoms are, the person’s overall health, and their desire to have children of their own. If a woman is experiencing any of the symptoms that may indicate fibroids, she should schedule an appointment with her doctor for a full evaluation and to develop a treatment plan that is specific to her needs.
Some of the most common signs of fibroids and how to treat them are as follows:
Symptoms of Fibroids:
1. Changes in Menstruation: Period bleeding, often known as menorrhagia, is a typical symptom. Women with fibroids may have irregular periods or experience bleeding between periods.
2. Having trouble going to the toilet or constipation: If fibroids are pressing on the rectum, it might be difficult to poop or experience constipation.
3. Urinating Frequently or Having Trouble Emptying the Bladder: Large fibroids can press against the bladder, leading to a frequent need to urinate or difficulty emptying the bladder.
4. Pressure and Pelvic Pain: Fibroids may cause pressure or pain in the pelvis. Feeling bloated or full in the lower abdomen is a common complaint among women.
5. An enlarged uterus or abdomen: The growth of fibroids in the uterus can sometimes make the abdomen appear larger than it actually is.
6. Backache or Pelvic Pain: When a woman has fibroids, she may experience pain or discomfort in her pelvis, lower back, or while having sex.
Treatment Options for Fibroids:
- Medications: Hormonal medications, such as birth control pills or hormonal IUDs, may help control heavy menstrual bleeding and reduce pain. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa) may also be used to temporarily shrink fibroids.
- Non-Invasive Procedures: In order to minimise or remove fibroids without surgery, non-invasive techniques have emerged, such as MRgFUS and uterine artery embolisation (UAE).
- Watchful Waiting: If fibroids are small and not causing significant symptoms, a “watchful waiting” approach may be recommended. Regular monitoring is done to check for any changes.
- Myomectomy: One surgical option for removing fibroids without damaging the uterus is a myomectomy. Women seeking to preserve their fertility may be advised to do this.
- Endometrial Ablation: Endometrial ablation is a procedure that destroys the lining of the uterus and can be used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding associated with fibroids.
- Hysterectomy: If the symptoms are very bad or if fertility is not an issue, a hysterectomy (removing the uterus) may be suggested. Although this is a permanent fix, it also makes getting pregnant in the future completely impossible.
