A uterine fibroid is a cell growth that develops either inside the uterus, outside the uterus, or on the wall of the uterus. Uterine fibroids are benign, meaning they are non-cancerous, fibrous tumors. Over time, uterine fibroids grow and can change shape, location, and even affect the patient’s symptoms. They can also cause the uterus to change shape.
Uterine fibroids do not develop before the onset of menstruation, so they are impossible in girls who have not reached puberty. Uterine fibroids are a medical condition that affects at least one in three women in Romania.
Studies conducted in the country show that 40% of women under 35 suffer from uterine fibroids, and up to 80% of women around 50 are affected. This condition impacts women physically, emotionally, and psychologically, changing their quality of life. Uterine fibroids occur mainly in fertile women between the ages of 30 and 40.
What Are the Causes of Uterine Fibroids?
Hormonal imbalances favor the development of uterine fibroids. Once formed, uterine fibroids continue to grow under the influence of estrogen and progesterone. During pregnancy, a woman’s body produces more estrogen, but after menopause, estrogen production decreases significantly. Hormonal fluctuations are a primary factor in fibroid development and symptom progression.
What Are the Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids?
The symptoms of uterine fibroids are not noticeable as soon as they begin to form, but later, when the cell formation grows considerably, major changes occur in both the patient’s body and her life.
What Are the Risk Factors for Uterine Fibroids?
- Age increases susceptibility to uterine fibroids.
- Family history is decisive if fibroids occur in relatives.
- Obesity promotes fibroid growth.
Ethnicity influences development; black women are more affected than Caucasian women.
Uterine Fibroids and Sex Life
Sexual activity is a sign of a healthy lifestyle because it reduces cardiovascular disease risk, depression, and pain, and supports physical fitness. Uterine fibroids are not sexually transmitted. Studies indicate hormonal fluctuations, particularly estrogen and progesterone, are responsible for fibroid development. Consult your gynecologist for discomfort during sexual activity, and a transvaginal ultrasound can identify the cause.
When Should You See a Gynecologist or Internist?
Women over 30 should have a gynecological exam every six months or at least once a year. If symptoms appear before a scheduled visit, consult your gynecologist immediately. Early attention is critical when medical issues arise. Symptomatic fibroids may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Increased abdominal circumference
- Abdominal pressure
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Prolonged menstruation
- Bleeding outside the menstrual cycle
- Anemia from abnormal bleeding
- Severe menstrual pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Frequent urination
- Urinary incontinence
- Kidney blockage in advanced cases
- Urethral blockage in rare and advanced cases
- Irregular bowel movements
- Infertility or miscarriage in pregnancy
Fibroids, also called leiomyomas or myomas, are estrogen-dependent. They are among the most common pelvic tumors. Treatment is based on type, size, and location. Fibroids are detected during gynecological exams, and MRI helps determine the most appropriate treatment. Fibroids are not life-threatening but affect physical, emotional, and mental well-being, so timely treatment is recommended.
What Tests Are Done If the Doctor Suspects Uterine Fibroids?
Tests may include:
- Gynecological consultation
- Pelvic ultrasound
- Transvaginal ultrasound
- Hysterosonography
- Blood tests
- Laparoscopy
- Additional tests as required
How Are Uterine Fibroids Treated?
Although uterine fibroids are generally harmless and may shrink or disappear after menopause, severe cases affecting health or quality of life require treatment. Reduction can be achieved with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and oral contraceptives in mild cases.
When Should Uterine Fibroids Be Removed?
Surgical removal is indicated for common fibroids or if fertility is desired. Myomectomy removes fibroids while preserving the uterus, performed conventionally or laparoscopically. Severe or multiple fibroids may require hysterectomy, which prevents recurrence but eliminates the possibility of pregnancy. The specialist makes treatment decisions with the patient based on severity and priorities.
Can Uterine Fibroids Be Prevented?
Uterine fibroids cannot be prevented.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Myomectomy?
Recovery from myomectomy is relatively quick for endoscopic, hysteroscopic, laparoscopic, or traditional procedures. Normal activities can resume within days, and sexual activity can resume approximately four weeks post-surgery.
How Long Does Recovery Take After a Hysterectomy?
Recovery depends on whether the uterus was removed traditionally or laparoscopically. Normal life can resume within days if pain is minimal, but strenuous activity should be avoided during the first few weeks. Menstruation stops after hysterectomy, but hormonal functions remain unless the ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed. Hormone replacement therapy may be necessary in such cases. Sexual activity can resume between four weeks and two months after surgery.
Are Uterine Fibroids Fatal?
Uterine fibroids are not fatal. They affect women’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Timely treatment is recommended to preserve quality of life.
If you have any further questions about uterine fibroids, schedule a consultation and talk to us.
