Uterine Fibroids and 5 common misconceptions.

Uterine Fibroids and 5 common misconceptions.

Uterine Fibroids and 5 common misconceptions. Uterine Fibroid is more common than we think, 2 in every 3 women develop fibroid at one point or the other during their reproductive years, this article will explain Uterine Fibroids, Its Symptoms, Causes, Various test available, 5 common misconceptions, and treatment options.

Fibroids are small tumors that develop around or within the Uterus. When cells are abnormal, there come together and form a tumor, the Uterus is simply a female reproductive organ where a baby develops and grows.

According to https://cle.clinic/40GW8Gw, fibroid clusters can range in size from 1 mm to more than 20 cm (8 inches) in diameter or even larger. For comparison, they can get as large as the size of a watermelon. These growths can develop within the wall of the uterus, inside the main cavity of the organ, or even on the outer surface.

Fibroids are rarely Cancerous, most fibroids are harmless and not all women have fibroid symptoms. It is possible to live with Fibroid without knowing. Black African women are most likely to develop fibroids than white women, there are also more prone to recurring fibroids and complications. Fibroids do not have any known cause yet but studies show that hormones, genetics, and certain lifestyle changes, can affect the formation and development of Fibroids.

Common Symptoms of Fibroid:

1. Heavy Menstrual Flow.
2. Prolonged menstruation Period.
3. Pelvic pain and discomfort.
4. Frequent Urination.
5. Constipation and bloating.
6. Weight gain.
7. Backache or Leg Pain.
8. Bladder Problems.
9. Painful Sexual Intercourse.

Causes of Fibroids: Fibroids do not have any known cause yet but studies show that hormones, genetics, and certain lifestyle changes, can affect the formation and development of Fibroids. Some of them are:

1. Early start of menstruation.
2. Obesity.
3. Lack of Vitamin D.
4. Family History.
5. Birth Control Use.
6. Hormonal Imbalance.
7. Diets high in red meat and low in vegetables.

How to test for Fibroid:

1. Pelvic Examination: A pelvic exam is done to check the health of the female reproductive and sexual organs. This process examines the shape, size, and position of the Uterus and ovaries, and any abnormalities are noted and further investigations carried out. The first part of a pelvic exam is a visual examination of the vulva(outer part of the female genitalia), it is examined for sores, irritations, swellings, and any other abnormalities. Next, the internal visual exam is done. A speculum is used to spread the vagina walls open, this helps the vagina and cervix to be seen and examined. A pap smear comes after that, Cervical cells are collected, with a small wand, and taken for further examination. Lastly, a physical exam is done where, two lubricated fingers are inserted into the Vagina with one hand, while the doctor uses the other to lightly press the lower abdomen and assess the shape, size, and position of the ovaries and Uterus. The rectum is also assessed for any abnormalities. This pelvic exam enables the doctor to detect fibroid. Usually, if the Uterus is enlarged or abnormal, it’s an indication of Fibroid and further tests will be carried out.
2. Ultrasound: An ultrasound uses sound waves to get images of structures within the body. This image provides the necessary information that the doctor needs. An ultrasound can be done either inside or outside the body. An abdominal ultrasound is a type of ultrasound carried out on the abdomen, a handheld device is moved across the belly to produce images that can be viewed on a screen, this helps the doctor to ascertain if fibroids are present. Transvaginal Ultrasound is where high-frequency sound waves create images of the internal organs of the pelvic region. These ultrasounds help in the detection and evaluation of fibroids.

These two tests may not always be enough, more imagining tests may be required, like MRI, Laparoscopy, Hysteroscopy, and maybe even a biopsy. Most fibroids are very harmless and unless there pose a threat to the body, treatment is usually not necessary. The treatment option depends on the severity of the fibroids, the treatments are effective but the fibroids can re-grow. 

5 Common Misconception:

1. All Fibroids Cause Pain: This is not true. Not all fibroids cause pain. Fibroids are mostly harmless and painless and it is possible to live a normal life without noticing the existence of fibroids in your body. The pains associated with fibroids are not experienced by everyone and it is an indication of the severity of the fibroid.
2. All Fibroids must be removed: Most fibroids are harmless and do not need to be removed. If the fibroid does not pose a threat to the body, the risk of removing it might likely be more than just letting it be. Not all fibroids grow and some may even shrink after some time.
3. Fibroids are Cancerous growths: It is extremely rare for a cancerous tumor to occur. It is really unlikely. Almost all fibroids are non-cancerous. Fibroids do not increase the chances of getting other forms of cancer.
4. Fibroids only affect women 30 years and above: Fibroids affect women of all ages. It occurs during the reproductive years. Most women have fibroid but are not aware of it because there are no symptoms.
5. Fibroids cause infertility: You can get and stay pregnant even with fibroids. Not all fibroids affect pregnancies, it depends on the size, location, and number of fibroids. It is possible to have fibroids and stay have a safe pregnancy and a healthy delivery.

 

SUMMARY:

Fibroids are more common than we know, as 2 in 3 women have fibroids but there do not always cause harm. As with any sickness, fibroids affect women in different ways. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for fibroids and it is important to always consult a medical doctor. The presence of fibroids does not mean infertility or cancer, those are myths that are not true.  Severe cases of fibroids are usually associated with a lot of pain, discomfort, and growth of the abdomen, early detection is always good and can facilitate treatment. It is advised to get a pelvic exam from age 21 and do it once every year to properly check and access the organs of the reproductive system.

 

 

WRITTEN BY: 

SHARON KANU.