Fibroids! What are they exactly?

 

Fibroids are benign growths in the uterus also known as uterine myomas. Within the uterine muscle, they are merely clumps of muscles. They are aggregates of muscle fibres that can be found in a variety of sizes and shapes, similar to moles on your skin.

These growths, which can range in size from a walnut to a football, can form inside the uterus's wall, inside its main cavity, or on its exterior. The different  types of fibroids are defined based on where a fibroid develops:

Intramural: Form within the muscular wall of the uterus and are the most common type of fibroid.

Subserosal: Grow on the outside wall of the uterus.

Submucosal: Develop in the middle muscle layer of the uterus.

What causes fibroids?

The precise causes are unknown. Similar to how we don't truly understand why we have a mole or birthmark when we are born. They simply exist. Race and ethnicity do affect predominance. Recently, a link between fibroids and oestrogen dominance has been discovered (hormonal imbalance leading to other oestrogen related conditions).

Another risk factor is obesity. According to recent research, being overweight, eating poorly, and not exercising can create a vicious cycle that results in oestrogen overactivity, which in turn can promote the growth of fibroid cysts. Since fibroids are typically painless, many women are unaware that they even have them. They occasionally have the ability to develop, alter, or cause problems. Heavy menstrual blood, protracted periods, and pelvic pain are a few signs of uterine fibroids.

What health risks are associated with fibroids?

There are many misconceptions about the true health dangers associated with fibroids. First off, fibroids rarely cause pain. However, you will probably feel pain if a fibroid is blocking nerves or degenerating (the cells are dying). The idea that fibroids contribute to weight gain is another myth. The only time a fibroid might cause weight gain is if it became quite large, which is uncommon. They must enlarge to the size of a football or a pumpkin for this to occur. Only 30% of the time are fibroids to blame for women who have heavier than usual periods. Heavy or protracted periods may be a symptom of uterine fibroids. Rarely are fibroids malignant. Only 1% of fibroids progress to malignancy.

How are fibroids treated?

The majority of fibroids don't need any kind of treatment, however they can occasionally be medicated or surgically removed. Your doctor may decide to treat or remove your fibroids if, for instance, they are causing excessive bleeding, are expanding quickly, or are preventing you from peeing normally. It's crucial to remember that fibroids nearly usually return, so we advise trying everything before deciding on surgery.

It is also advised to have an active lifestyle and eat healthily to help limit fibroid growth. If you have fibroids, it's advised that you keep an eye out for changes and see a doctor if you start to feel unwell.

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