Fibroids in Uterine: Causes and Treatment Options (Medical and Surgical)

Posted by Dr. (Mrs.) Manisha Mehta on

The prevalence of uterine fibroids has surged to a point where it stands as a major concern, affecting countless lives of women. Especially in cities like Sirsa, Hanumangarh, and Mansa, a significant number of women are unaware of this intricate condition. This highlights the urgent need for awareness and education.

In this blog, Apex Hospital - home to the finest gynecologists in Sirsa, India - will share a comprehensive guide on fibroids in the uterine. From the meaning and causes to symptoms and treatment options, we will navigate through all essential aspects of this often overlooked health issue among women.

Let’s understand its meaning first!

What is a Fibroid Uterus?

A fibroid uterus refers to the presence of non-cancerous growths (better known as fibroids or leiomyomas) within the uterine walls. These firm, compact tumors can occur within the uterine wall, the main cavity of the uterus, or on the outer surface of the uterus itself. They can often form during a woman’s childbearing years and vary in size and number.

Fibroids can either manifest as solitary nodules or cluster together, forming groups of varying sizes. These clusters may range from a mere 1 millimeter to an expansive 20 centimeters (8 inches) in diameter or even larger. To be more specific, fibroids can be as diminutive as a seed or expand to the dimensions of a watermelon.

The varied locations and sizes of these growths underscore the complexity of fibroid development within the female reproductive system.

What Causes Fibroids in Uterine? 

Although the exact cause of uterine fibroids is still unknown, many medical experts believe that several factors contribute to their development. Here are 5 potential reasons:

-         Genetic Predisposition: Genetic factors can play a significant role in the development of uterine fibroids. If a woman has a family history of fibroids, her likelihood of experiencing them increases, suggesting a genetic predisposition to this condition.

-         Hormonal Imbalance: Fluctuations in hormonal levels (particularly estrogen and progesterone) may contribute to the growth of fibroids. These hormones, integral to the menstrual cycle, may stimulate the formation and enlargement of these uterine tumors.

-         Race and Ethnicity: Studies indicate variations in fibroid prevalence among different racial and ethnic groups. Some Indian women have a chance to develop fibroids at a younger age and experience larger and more numerous fibroids compared to women of other ethnicities and age groups.

-         Age and Hormonal Changes: Since we’ve mentioned age groups, we thought why not talk about it in detail? The risk of developing fibroids in uterine increases with age, particularly during the reproductive years. Hormonal changes associated with the onset of menstruation and perimenopause can influence fibroid development.

-         Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle elements such as obesity and a diet high in red meat and low in fruits and vegetables have been linked to an increased risk of developing fibroids in the uterus.

Indian pregnancy diet plan to follow in 2024!

What are the Symptoms of Fibroids in Uterine?  

Fibroids in the uterine can manifest with a range of symptoms, signaling their presence within the female reproductive system. Common indications of fibroids include:

-         Menstrual Changes: Irregular and heavy menstrual bleeding, leading to prolonged periods and potential discomfort.

-         Pelvic Pain and Pressure: Women with fibroids may experience pelvic pain, discomfort, or a sense of pressure in the lower abdomen.

-         Frequent Urination: Large fibroids can exert pressure on the bladder, causing increased frequency of urination.

-         Backache or Leg Pains: Fibroids may result in backache or leg pains. These occur particularly when the tumors press on nerves surrounding the uterus.

-         Pain During Intercourse: Fibroids positioned near the surface of the uterine wall might lead to pain or discomfort during sexual activity.

What are Treatments for Fibroids in Uterine?

Hormonal treatments such as birth control pills or GnRH agonists aim to regulate the menstrual cycle by controlling estrogen and progesterone levels. Birth control pills can help women manage symptoms like heavy bleeding while GnRH agonists induce a temporary menopausal state, shrinking fibroids and alleviating associated symptoms.

And if you think these are the only treatments to go for, you’re wrong! Here are more:

-         Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: NSAIDs like ibuprofen are often recommended to manage pain and reduce inflammation associated with fibroids. While they do not directly shrink the fibroids, they provide symptomatic relief, making them a valuable component of fibroid treatment plans.

-         Tranexamic Acid: Tranexamic acid is a medication that helps control heavy menstrual bleeding by promoting blood clotting. By reducing excessive bleeding, this drug addresses one of the primary symptoms associated with fibroids.

-         Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): For those who don’t know, UFE is a non-surgical procedure that involves blocking the blood vessels supplying the fibroids, causing them to shrink. 

This minimally invasive technique is performed by interventional radiologists and is particularly suitable for women seeking alternatives to surgery while desiring relief from fibroid-related symptoms.

-         Myomectomy: Now unlike the previous one, Myomectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at removing fibroids while preserving the uterus. This approach is often recommended for women who wish to maintain fertility or avoid a hysterectomy. 

Depending on the size and location of the fibroids, myomectomy can be performed through traditional open surgery, laparoscopy, or hysteroscopy.

-         Laparoscopic: Literally, one of the best treatments for getting rid of fibroids in the uterine for women! Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive technique that offers a less invasive alternative for removing or shrinking fibroids. 

With smaller incisions, reduced scarring, and quicker recovery times compared to traditional open surgery, it provides effective surgical interventions with enhanced patient outcomes.

• Hysterectomy: Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the complete removal of the uterus. It is often considered a definitive solution for various gynecological conditions. And yes, this incorporates uterine fibroids as well! Depending on individual health considerations, different types of hysterectomy procedures may be employed including total, subtotal, and radical hysterectomy. 

This major surgery eliminates the possibility of fibroid recurrence and effectively addresses symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pain. 

• Ulipristal (medication): A selective progesterone receptor modulator (SPRM) prescribed to manage symptoms associated with uterine fibroids. By modulating progesterone receptors, ulipristal inhibits fibroid growth and reduces bleeding. This medication offers a non-surgical option for those seeking to alleviate fibroid-related symptoms without undergoing painful surgeries. 

• Mirena (Intrauterine Device - IUD): Mirena is an intrauterine device (IUD) that releases a low dose of levonorgestrel. For those who don’t know, it is basically a synthetic progestin hormone. While primarily used for contraception, Mirena also proves effective in managing heavy menstrual bleeding associated with fibroids. 

By thinning the uterine lining and reducing menstrual flow, it offers a long-term, non-surgical approach to address fibroid symptoms. Thus, providing convenience and efficacy for many women.

Learn about the best laparoscopic surgeons in Sirsa!

-         MRI-guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery (MRgFUS): Our list will be considered incomplete without talking about this treatment for getting rid of fibroids in uterine. MRgFUS is a non-invasive procedure that employs focused ultrasound waves to heat and destroy fibroid tissue. 

It allows for precise targeting of fibroids without incisions, providing an alternative to traditional surgical methods. While not suitable for all types of fibroids, MRgFUS offers a promising option for select cases. It combines effectiveness with reduced recovery times.

ibroids in Uterine: Final Words

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