A fibroid is a type of benign tumor that forms in the muscle tissue of the uterus and can therefore also be called fibroid or uterine leiomyoma. Its location in the uterus may vary, as can its size, which can be microscopic up to several centimeters.
Fibroids are a very common condition and usually do not cause symptoms; however, some women may show signs such as cramps, bleeding, or difficulty getting pregnant.
- The best strategy for treating myoma is to remove the uterus.
- But when it’s not an option.
- The gynecologist may indicate other treatments.
The main types of uterine fibroids are divided according to their location in this organ and may be:
Better understand each type of uterine fibroid
The cause of uterine fibroid has not been fully finished. When it appears it’s because certain cells in the muscle tissue that make up the uterus multiply excessively, leading to the tumor.
Female hormones are known to influence their development because symptoms appear in adult women and tend to decrease after menopause. In addition, symptoms of this disease may recur in women receiving hormone replacement therapy.
Women most likely to have fibroids are those who do not have children, who have a diet rich in red meats and low in vegetables, obese women and those with a family history of this disease.
Some women may have symptoms, which vary depending on the number, type, and size of the fibroid. The main ones are:
This disease is diagnosed by a gynecologist’s assessment and by tests such as ultrasound or other imaging tests, such as hysteroscopy and histerosalpineography, that evaluate the uterine cavity.
In addition, women with uterine fibroids who wish to become pregnant, even if they have no symptoms, should be followed up with the gynecologist, as the presence of this tumor may lead to certain complications during pregnancy, such as abortions.
Learn how fibroids can be treated during pregnancy
Treatment is indicated when a woman has severe symptoms, such as heavy pain or periods, or when she tries to become pregnant without success. The type of treatment depends on each woman’s symptoms, size and fibroid and should be guided by the gynecologist. In many cases, as they do not cause symptoms, only routine tracking is performed.
Treatment to cure fibroids may be done by surgery or other techniques performed by the gynecologist, such as embolization or cauterization of the lining of the uterus. The use of hormonal medications, such as the birth control pill, to prevent their growth, may also be indicated by the gynecologist.
Anti-inflammatory medications may also be used to relieve symptoms, such as ibuprofen, for example.
Learn more about fibroid treatment
A small number of women with fibroids may have difficulty getting pregnant because fibroids can cause certain deformities inside the uterus, as well as changes in circulation and increased inflammation.
In these cases, it is possible to perform treatments with hormone-based drugs, such as estrogens and androgens, or surgeries, which are a myomectomy or embolization of fibroids to increase the chances of becoming pregnant.