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Read MoreAre you experiencing persistent pelvic pain or heavy menstrual bleeding? Uterine fibroids can significantly affect your daily life, but personalized treatment and compassionate care can help you get relief and improve your well-being.
What are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids, also called uterine leiomyomas or myomas, are non-cancerous growths in or around the uterus. These growths arise from the smooth muscle cells of the uterine wall and can vary in size, from tiny seedlings undetectable to the human eye to large masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus.
Although researchers don’t understand the exact cause of uterine fibroids, they may be influenced by hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, which can stimulate uterine fibroid growth. Genetics may play a role in uterine fibroid development, as they tend to run in families.
Uterine fibroids can grow in various uterine locations. Each type can affect the body differently:
Submucosal:
Located beneath the lining of the uterine cavity, these fibroids can protrude into the uterine space. They are the least common type but often cause significant symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding and fertility issues.
Intramural:
Found within the muscular wall of the uterus, intramural fibroids are the most common type. They can cause the uterus to appear larger and may lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain and pressure.
Subserosal:
These fibroids grow on the outer uterine surface and can continue to expand outward. Subserosal fibroids may not affect menstrual flow as much as other types, but they can cause pelvic pain, pressure and sometimes back pain, depending on their size and location.
Pedunculated:
Attached to the outer or inner wall of the uterus by a thin stalk, these fibroids can cause sudden, sharp pain if the stalk becomes twisted. Depending on their location, they can also contribute to the symptoms associated with subserosal or submucosal fibroids.
What are the Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids?
Depending on size, location and quantity, uterine fibroids can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Rectal pressure
- Abdominal swelling
- Backache or leg pains
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Infertility or fertility issues
- Long menstrual periods
- Lower back pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Anemia (due to heavy bleeding)
- Bladder issues, such as frequent urination
How are Uterine Fibroids Diagnosed?
Diagnosing uterine fibroids starts with a thorough medical history and a pelvic exam. During the exam, the doctor may feel irregularities in the uterus shape, which can indicate the presence of uterine fibroids. You may need imaging tests, such as ultrasounds, MRIs or CT scans, to confirm diagnosis and gather more details about your condition. Your doctor may also perform a biopsy or hysteroscopy if they need more information. Early and accurate diagnosis can help your care team develop an effective treatment plan so you can manage fibroid symptoms.
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Uterine Fibroid Treatment Options
Medication for uterine fibroids
Medications such as hormonal therapies can help regulate your menstrual cycle and manage symptoms like heavy bleeding and pelvic pain. They work by reducing estrogen levels or blocking its effects, which can shrink uterine fibroids and alleviate discomfort.
Surgery
In cases where uterine fibroids are large or cause severe symptoms, your doctor may recommend surgical removal while leaving the uterus intact (called myomectomy) or removing the uterus (called hysterectomy ). These procedures are more invasive but can provide long-term relief for those experiencing significant uterine fibroid-related symptoms.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
Minimally invasive procedures like uterine artery embolization (UAE) or focused ultrasound surgery (FUS) are targeted approaches that can shrink or destroy uterine fibroids. These techniques offer shorter recovery times and less risk.
Our Approach to Uterine Fibroid Treatment
At Inspira, we ensure each patient receives personalized care from an experienced, multidisciplinary team. We understand that uterine fibroids can present differently for each individual, so our treatment plans are customized to target specific symptoms and improve overall quality of life.
Whether you're experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or other fibroid-related symptoms, we see you and are committed to providing effective relief. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and support needed to make informed decisions about your health, ensuring you receive compassionate care and optimal outcomes throughout your treatment journey.
