Uterine fibroids (also called leiomyomas) are growths made up of the muscle and connective tissue from the wall of the uterus. These growths are usually not cancerous (benign). The uterus is an upside-down pear-shaped organ in the female pelvis. The normal size of a uterus is similar to a lemon. It’s also called the womb and it’s the place where a foetus grows and develops during pregnancy.
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous tumors of the uterus that are estimated to affect up to three out of four women during their lifetime. Though they can be quite painful and cause severe complications, the exact cause of uterine fibroids is still unknown. However, researchers have identified several factors that may increase a woman's risk of developing them.
Hormonal imbalances in estrogen and progesterone appear to play a role in the development of uterine fibroids, as these hormones regulate cell growth within the uterus. Factors such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and an early onset of menstruation can also increase an individual's risk for developing uterine fibroids. Additionally, certain ethnic backgrounds may put one at greater risk for developing these tumors due to genetic predisposition or environmental influences.
While some persons may not experience any complications from uterine fibroids, others may suffer from a variety of troublesome symptoms. The most common complications include pain during intercourse, heavy menstrual bleeding, and pelvic pressure or discomfort. Uterine fibroids can also cause frequent urination and constipation due to the extra pressure on nearby organs like the bladder and rectum.
Some more serious potential complications associated with uterine fibroids include infertility and miscarriage.
Symptoms depend on the size and number of fibroids present and can vary from person to person. Knowing the signs and symptoms associated with uterine fibroids is important for early diagnosis and treatment.
Common symptoms include abdominal pain or pressure, excessive menstrual bleeding, pelvic discomfort or pressure, frequent urination, constipation, backache, or leg pains. Other signs can include infertility or repeated miscarriages. People with uterine fibroids may also experience enlargement in their abdomen due to larger fibroid tumors pressing against it. In addition to these physical symptoms, many people also experience depression as a result of their condition.
Usually, an ultrasound or MRI is used to examine the size and location of the fibroids. Additionally, blood tests may be taken to check for anemia due to heavy bleeding caused by the condition. A hysteroscopy might also be done in order to view the inside of the uterus and take tissue samples if needed. Other tests that could be performed include a pelvic exam and sonohysterography which is a test that combines ultrasound with fluid injection into the uterus.
Fortunately, there are several treatment options available to manage uterine fibroids and reduce their negative effects on day-to-day life.
Treatment typically depends on the severity of each individual case and may involve lifestyle modifications, medications or even surgery. Hormonal birth control pills may be used to stop ovulation and reduce estrogen levels which could potentially shrink the size of existing fibroids. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen may also provide relief from pain associated with uterine fibroids.
When it comes to uterine fibroids, seeking medical care is an important step in managing symptoms and preventing the development of additional health issues. While they may not always require medical treatment, there are certain signs that should be taken seriously.
If someone is experiencing any vaginal bleeding between periods or after menopause, pain during intercourse, abdominal or pelvic pressure or cramping, any abnormal growths in the abdomen, frequent urination, and/or constipation. Additionally, if a person has been diagnosed with a fibroid before but have noticed new symptoms such as sudden weight gain and anemia due to heavy bleeding—even if it’s only happened once—it's best to get evaluated by a qualified medical professional.
Uterine fibroids are a common condition that can have serious effects on a person’s quality of life. It is important to be aware of the risk factors and symptoms associated with uterine fibroids so that a person can seek treatment if necessary. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to managing this condition, there are many treatments available to reduce symptoms or eliminate the fibroids altogether.
As the Caribbean and the island of Barbados have a large Afro-Caribbean population, the diagnosis, incidence, prevalence, treatment and management of uterine fibroids is of critical importance. This is as persons of African descent are at a greater risk of developing uterine fibroids. Women in this population also develop fibroids at an earlier age and can have larger fibroids when compared to women of other ethnicities.
In 2020, the Global Fibroids Alliance, a collaborative that the Barbados Association of Endometriosis & P.C.O.S. is a participating member, published a position paper outlining the potential impact of uterine fibroids and proposing policy recommendations for improved management, treatment and overall care of persons diagnosed with uterine fibroids.
CARE About Fibroids has also provided a White Paper ” A Guide to Understanding Uterine Fibroids and Treatment Options for Women in the U.S“.
The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) released clinical guidance for the management of uterine fibroids in 2015.
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References
We seek to provide relevant and up-to-date information to allow those with Uterine Fibroids to make informed decisions as it pertains to the condition. Whilst we provide these links and references to external resources, we have no control over what they produce on these third-party sites and thus are not responsible for the content and cannot confirm the completeness of any of the information from any other site. Thus, we claim no liability for any damages or injuries of any kind arising from such content or information. Please remember to seek the expert opinion of a medical practitioner for medical advice.
