Fibroids

Heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, and constant bloating that makes your clothes feel too tight can be really uncomfortable. If any of this resonates with you, there's a chance that fibroids might be the cause. Dr Kavul Mulomb offers clinical assessment and care for women living with fibroids. Whether you have just received a diagnosis or have been struggling with symptoms for years, there are options that can help you regain control over your health.

Uterine fibroids are actually one of the most common gynaecological conditions that affect women during their reproductive years. While many fibroids are harmless, some can really impact your daily life. The fantastic news is that they are manageable.

What are fibroids?

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that form in or around the uterus. Composed of muscle and fibrous tissue, they come in various sizes. Some can be as tiny as a seed, while others can grow big enough to create noticeable bloating or even alter the shape of the uterus.

You might have heard them referred to as uterine leiomyomas or myomas, but most people simply call them “fibroids.”

Fibroids can grow:

• Inside the uterine wall
• On the outer surface of the uterus
• Inside the uterine cavity
• On a stalk outside the uterus

The size, number, and location of fibroids can really influence the kinds of symptoms you may notice.

Common symptoms of fibroids

While not all fibroids cause symptoms, the ones that do can have a significant impact.

You may notice:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Menstrual cycles that last longer than a week
• Pain during intercourse
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Frequent urination or difficulty emptying your bladder
• Constipation
• Bloating or a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen
• Difficulty becoming pregnant or complications during pregnancy
• Lower back pain

If any of these symptoms are getting in the way of your daily life, it might be a good idea to seek an assessment. Remember, early detection opens the door to better treatment options.

What causes fibroids?

Hormonal influence

Estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that help regulate your menstrual cycle, seem to encourage the growth of fibroids. You might notice that fibroids often grow during pregnancy but tend to shrink after menopause, when hormone levels decrease.

Age

Fibroids tend to be most common among women between the ages of 30 and 50, though they can show up a little earlier or later in life too.

Genetic factors

Having a family history of fibroids can raise your chances of developing them. If your mother or sister experienced fibroids, you might find that you have a greater likelihood of experiencing them too.

Other risk factors

If you’re dealing with being overweight, high blood pressure, or experiencing an early start to your period, it could be helpful to know that these factors might increase your risk.

How are fibroids diagnosed?

If your doctor suspects fibroids, they might start with a pelvic exam to see if your uterus is enlarged or has an irregular shape.

Further testing may include:

• A pelvic ultrasound which helps us see the size and location of the fibroids.
• A transvaginal ultrasound for a more detailed internal view
• An MRI scan if more precise imaging is needed
• Hysteroscopy to examine the inside of the uterus using a small camera
• A saline sonohysterogram to evaluate fibroids that may distort the uterine cavity

These tests are here to help you find the best course of treatment tailored to your symptoms and reproductive goals.

What are the treatment options for fibroids?

Treatment options can vary based on a few important factors, like the size and location of the fibroids, how severe your symptoms are, and your future family planning goals. It's good to know that some fibroids may not need immediate attention and can simply be monitored as time goes on.

Other treatment options include:

• Medications to control heavy bleeding or shrink the fibroids
• Hormonal therapies, like GnRH agonists, work by temporarily lowering hormone levels, bringing a nurturing approach to hormone management.
• Non-invasive procedures, such as uterine artery embolisation, gently cut off the blood supply to the fibroids.
• Minimally invasive surgery, such as laparoscopic or hysteroscopic removal
• Traditional surgery, such as a myomectomy (removal of fibroids only) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus)

Each option comes with its own benefits and considerations. Your decision will be influenced by your symptoms, overall health, and your personal preferences for your body and future. Fibroids may not be life-threatening, but they can have a significant impact on your well-being. If you’re experiencing heavy bleeding, pain, or bloating that disrupts your daily life, it’s important to schedule an appointment to discuss your options.