Fibroids Unveiled: Shedding Light on a Common Uterine Condition

In the realm of women's health, there are certain conditions that remain shrouded in mystery, often undetected until they cause noticeable symptoms.

One such condition is uterine fibroids, non-cancerous growths that emerge within or around the uterus.

These growths also referred to as uterine myomas or leiomyomas, consist of muscle and fibrous tissue, and their size can vary significantly.

Fibroids are a prevalent condition, affecting approximately two out of three women at some point in their lives.

The perplexing aspect of fibroids is that many women are oblivious to their existence due to the absence of any symptoms.

However, for approximately one in three women with fibroids, fibroids can manifest in a range of distressing symptoms. These may include heavy or painful periods, abdominal pain, lower back pain, frequent urination, constipation, and discomfort during sexual intercourse.

Unravelling the Mystery: Seeking Professional Guidance

Given the relatively asymptomatic (meaning no-symptoms) nature of fibroids, they are sometimes discovered during routine gynaecological examinations, tests, or scans. Consequently, it is crucial to consult a general practitioner (GP) if you experience any fibroid-related symptoms. Your GP will then initiate the investigative process to determine the underlying cause.

Typically, if your GP suspects the presence of fibroids, they will refer you for an ultrasound scan to confirm the diagnosis. This non-invasive procedure uses sound waves to generate detailed images of the uterus, providing valuable insights into the presence and characteristics of fibroids.

Unveiling Vulnerability: Who is Prone to Fibroids?

Fibroids are a prevalent condition, affecting approximately two out of three women at some point in their lives.

Black women are more likely to develop fibroids than white women. Age is considered a risk factor with fibroids most commonly arising in women between the ages of 30 and 50. Obesity and a family history of fibroids are considered additional risk factors. Interestingly, women who have given birth have a lower risk of developing fibroids.

Charting a Course: Navigating Fibroid Treatment Options

It is important to note that fibroids do not always require treatment if they are not causing any symptoms. In many cases, fibroids naturally shrink after menopause without the need for intervention.

However, if symptoms are present, the initial approach typically involves prescribing medications to alleviate discomfort. Additionally, there are medications available that can help shrink fibroids. If these medical interventions prove ineffective, surgical procedures or less invasive treatments may be recommended to address the fibroids.

Seeking medical advice is crucial if fibroid-related symptoms arise, enabling timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.