A few women go through life without encountering uterine fibroids at some point. Approximately 70-80% of women will develop fibroids by 50. While many women with St. Louis uterine fibroids may not experience any symptoms, while for others, these growths can cause pelvic pain, bleeding and other issues.
More of the symptoms you may experience if you have uterine fibroids include:
- Fertility problems
- Urinary or urgency
- Enlarged abdomen
- Constipation frequency
There are a few types of uterine fibroids, which can differ in size, shape, and location.
- Intramural Fibroids: These are the most common type of fibroid and grow within the uterus wall.
- Submucosal Fibroids: These fibroids grow in the inner lining of the uterus and can protrude into the uterine cavity.
- Subserosal Fibroids: Such fibroids develop on the outer surface of the uterus and can grow very large, sometimes reaching the size of a cantaloupe.
Causes of uterine fibroids
Estrogen
Did you know that estrogen is necessary for the growth of uterine fibroids? In fact, fibroids are two to three times more common in women of childbearing age than in postmenopausal women. This is because estrogen levels are highest during the childbearing years.
Genetics
Genetics can play a significant role in the development of uterine fibroids. If your mother or sister has had fibroids, you are more likely to develop them.
Obesity
Being overweight or obese can also increase your risk of developing uterine fibroids. This is because excess body fat can lead to higher estrogen levels.
African-American descent
African-American women are also more likely to develop fibroids than women of other racial backgrounds. Approximately 50-80% of African-American women can develop fibroids by 50.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy can also play a role in the development of uterine fibroids. This is because the hormone levels during pregnancy can promote the growth of fibroids.
Diagnosis of uterine fibroids
If you are experiencing any symptoms related to uterine fibroids, your doctor will likely order a pelvic exam. During a pelvic exam, your doctor will check for abnormal uterine growth.
Your doctor may also order one or more of the following tests to confirm the diagnosis:
- Ultrasound: This imaging test can be used to detect fibroids.
- MRI: This imaging test can provide more detailed information about the size and location of fibroids.
- Hysteroscopy is a procedure in which a small, telescope-like device is inserted into the uterus through the vagina to check for fibroids.
- Biopsy: This is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the uterus to be checked for fibroids.
Some of the treatment options include:
Medications
If you have small fibroids and your symptoms are mild, your doctor may recommend medications to help manage your symptoms. These can include over-the-counter pain relievers, hormonal birth control, and iron supplements.
Surgery
If you have large fibroids or severe symptoms, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the fibroids. A few different types of surgical procedures can be used to remove fibroids.
Intrauterine devices (IUD)
An IUD is a small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus to help prevent pregnancy. IUDs can also help reduce uterine fibroids’ symptoms by causing the lining of the uterus to thin.
If you are experiencing any symptoms related to uterine fibroids, it’s important to see your doctor at Midwest Institute for Non-surgical Therapy (MINT).
