Uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are noncancerous growths in the uterus that commonly manifest during childbearing years. These fibroids do not pose an increased risk of uterine cancer and rarely undergo malignant transformation.

Fibroids vary in size, ranging from tiny seedlings that are undetectable by the naked eye to larger masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. They can exist as solitary fibroids or occur in multiple clusters. In severe cases, the presence of numerous fibroids can cause the uterus to expand to the extent of reaching the rib cage.

A significant number of women experience uterine fibroids at some point in their lives. However, many remain unaware of their presence since fibroids often do not cause noticeable symptoms. Detection may occur incidentally during routine pelvic examinations or prenatal ultrasounds conducted by healthcare professionals.

Symptoms:

While many women with uterine fibroids may not experience symptoms, those who do can be affected by factors such as the location, size, and number of fibroids. Common symptoms include:
– Heavy menstrual bleeding
– Pelvic pressure or pain
– Frequent urination
– Difficulty emptying the bladder
– Constipation
– Backache or leg pains

In rare cases, a fibroid can lead to acute pain when it outgrows its blood supply and begins to undergo necrosis.

Fibroids are categorized based on their location within the uterus. Intramural fibroids grow within the uterine wall, submucosal fibroids protrude into the uterine cavity, and subserosal fibroids extend outside the uterus.

1.When to See a Doctor:
It’s advisable to consult a doctor if experiencing:
– Persistent pelvic pain
– Excessively heavy, prolonged, or painful periods
– Spotting or bleeding between periods
– Difficulty emptying the bladder

2.Causes:
The exact cause of uterine fibroids is unknown, but several factors are implicated:

3.Genetic Changes:

Many fibroids exhibit alterations in genes distinct from those in normal uterine muscle cells.

4.Hormones: 

Estrogen and progesterone, hormones that stimulate uterine lining development in each menstrual cycle, appear to encourage fibroid growth. Fibroids contain more receptors for these hormones than normal uterine muscle cells, and they often shrink after menopause due to decreased hormone production.

5.Other Growth Factors:

Substances like insulin-like growth factor, which aid tissue maintenance, may influence fibroid growth.

Medical professionals believe that uterine fibroids originate from a stem cell in the uterus’s smooth muscular tissue. As a single cell divides, it creates a distinct, rubbery mass. Fibroid growth patterns vary, with some growing slowly or rapidly, remaining the same size, experiencing growth spurts, or spontaneously shrinking. Many fibroids present during pregnancy may shrink or disappear afterward as the uterus returns to its normal size.