Fibroids Treatment

Fibroids Treatment & Diagnosis in Koramangala, Bangalore

Fibroids: Should You Be Worried About Them?

An Overview:

Uterine fibroids are also known as myomas. Fibroids are commonly found among women of age 30 to 40 years. Fibroids are common as 1 in 3 women develop this condition. Fibroids develop on your uterus. You may not notice any symptoms of uterine fibroids as they are small in size. 
Fibroids have many names, such as myomas, leiomyomas, uterine fibroids. The exact cause of fibroids developing is still unknown. Most women develop this condition after the age of 50 years.

What are Fibroids?

Fibroids are muscular, tiny, non-cancerous growths that occur on your uterus. Fibroids are not usually associated with cancer. They are benign and harmless in most cases. Fibroids can develop on or inside your uterus. The size of fibroids varies greatly in every case. You may have a fibroid so tiny that it is not noticeable to the human eyes, or you may also develop bulky fibroids with more mass. Your body may develop a single fibroid or multiple fibroids.

What are the Symptoms of Fibroids?

Most women do not experience any symptoms of fibroids. However, here are some common symptoms about which you should know:

• Heavy bleeding during periods
• Extended periods (for more than a week)
• Constipation
• Pressure in the pelvic region
• Frequent urination
• Back pain/leg pain

What Causes Fibroids?

Even today, the exact cause of fibroids is still unknown. Certain factors may contribute to the development of this condition.

• Genes: Genetic mutation may cause fibroids. Certain genetic mutations are believed to play a role in the abnormal growth of muscular mass in the uterus. 
• Hormonal imbalance: Researchers suggest a link between hormonal imbalance and the development of fibroids in the uterus. Fibroids have high levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones than normal levels. Once you reach menopause, uterine fibroids may reduce in size due to low levels of estrogen and progesterone.
• Growth factors: Insulin-like growth factors may cause fibroids development in your body.

When to See a Doctor?

If you develop uterine fibroids, you may not always experience any symptoms. However, if you experience any prolonged symptoms of fibroids, get in touch with a healthcare expert who can investigate and diagnose the condition.

Request an appointment at Apollo Hospitals

Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment

How are Fibroids Diagnosed?

Once you visit a gynecologist, he/she will examine you and order ultrasound and pelvic MRI tests to confirm the presence of fibroids. Ultrasound technique helps doctors examine the internal structure of your reproductive system, such as the uterus. With pelvic MRI, the doctor can get detailed pictures of your uterus, ovaries, and other reproductive organs.

What are the Treatment Options Available for Fibroids?

Fibroids can be treated with medications and surgery. Depending on the size of the fibroids, your doctor may suggest the right treatment to manage the symptoms and deal with this non-cancerous growth.

• Medications:
  Your doctor may prescribe medications to limit the production of estrogen and progesterone. You may experience a temporary menopausal state. Once the hormonal level falls, the fibroids will shrink. In some cases, the doctor may suggest you take anti-inflammatory drugs and birth control pills to manage the symptoms of heavy bleeding. The use of IUD (IntraUterine Device) can help control excessive bleeding.
• Surgical Options:
  There are many surgical options available to deal with fibroids.
  • Non-invasive: In this treatment, you need to lie down in the MRI machine, where doctors use high-frequency sound waves directed towards your fibroids. Fibroids are destroyed without making an incision on the body.
  • Myomectomy:
    It is the surgical removal of fibroids. This surgical option may not be suggested in all cases as myomectomy is highly dependent on the size and location of the fibroids. The doctor may make a few small incisions or a single large incision on your belly. General anesthesia is used in this surgery. In most cases, laparoscopic myomectomy is preferred, as it is a less invasive procedure that leads to faster recovery.
  • Uterine Artery Embolization:
    In this treatment option, embolic agents are introduced into your uterus via an artery that supplies blood to your uterus. Embolic particles cut down blood flow to the fibroids. Due to a lack of blood supply, fibroids eventually die. However, this treatment option may lead to some side effects.

Conclusion

Uterine fibroids are common. With proper diagnosis, they can be easily treated. With the right treatment approach and lifestyle changes, you can overcome fibroids and manage the symptoms.