Uterine fibroids are considered to be the most common benign tumor of a woman’s uterus. Fibroids can potentially develop within the uterine wall or can be seen attached to it. They can possibly grow in clusters or as single tumors. Uterine fibroids manifest themselves in symptoms such as excessive menstrual bleeding, pain in the pelvic region and frequent urination. Although these tumors are known as fibroids, they actually consist of muscle tissue rather than fibrous tissue, as is incorrectly assumed.
It is the hormone estrogen which is produced naturally in your body that is responsible for the growth of fibroids. Fibroids can appear in women as young as twenty years of age and begin to shrink after menopause when the body stops its production of large quantities of estrogen. In most cases, fibroids tend to be tiny and are often harmless. However they can even grow up to several pounds. The growth of fibroids is generally at a very slow pace. Recent studies have shown that fibroids can be an inherited condition.
There are many factors responsible for the growth of fibroids. Some of these include obesity, no history of childbirth (also known as null parity), onset of periods before the age of 10 and even African-American heritage (studies have shown that this segment is more prone to develop fibroids than Caucasian women).
As mentioned earlier, in a majority of fibroids, including large ones, no symptoms are seen at all. In most cases, these fibroids are only noticed during a routine pelvic examination. When symptoms finally develop, they commonly occur in the following manner:
To begin with, the affected woman will experience abnormal vaginal bleeding or a perceptible increase in menstrual bleeding. This condition is medically referred to as menorrhagia and is sometimes accompanied by blood clots. Increased pressure experienced on the bladder, is another symptom that may cause frequent urination, or a sensation of an urgency to urinate; in rare cases women who experience fibroids may also experience an inability to urinate. Women suffering form fibroids may also experience constipation. There may also be a possibility of pressure on the pelvic region, a sensation of ‘feeling full” in the lower abdomen as well as lower abdominal pain. Patients may also experience a noticeable increase in the size of their waist and as change in their abdominal contours. Fibroids are also one of the main causes for female infertility.
If you notice any of the above symptoms, it is extremely critical that you seek immediate medical opinion. Your gynecologist will be the best person to diagnose and evaluate your condition and prescribe the appropriate course of action.