As we all know, women’s health issues are vastly under-researched and under-funded. One of these complex issues are fibroids. These non-cancerous growths, originating in the uterus, can significantly impact various aspects of well-being, extending beyond the realm of reproductive health. From digestive symptoms like bloating and weight gain, to physical pain and shortness of breath, fibroids manifest in diverse ways, raising concerns about their potential consequences. In this blog post, I delve into the details of fibroids, highlighting their symptoms, associated risks, and the importance of seeking medical guidance. Whether you’re grappling with a recent diagnosis, suspecting the presence of fibroids, or simply seeking a deeper understanding, this post is a great start toward informed decisions and proactive health management.
What are Fibroids?
Fibroids, also known as uterine fibroids or leiomyomas, are benign tumors, or noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. They are composed of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary in size, ranging from small, seed-like structures to large masses that can distort the shape of the uterus. While the exact cause of fibroids is unclear, factors such as hormonal fluctuations, genetics, and estrogen levels are believed to play a role in their development.
Fibroids are quite common, with many women experiencing them at some point in their lives. There is no known cause of fibroids, but they are influenced by the amount of estrogen in one’s body. In some cases, they may not cause any noticeable symptoms and are only discovered during a pelvic exam or prenatal ultrasound. However, for others, fibroids can lead to various issues such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, backache, and complications during pregnancy and labor.
Treatment options for fibroids depend on the severity of symptoms and a person’s reproductive plans. Management may include medication to control symptoms, hormonal therapy, or, in more severe cases, surgical procedures like myomectomy (removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). It’s essential for individuals experiencing symptoms to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
Types of Fibroids:
There are different types of fibroids, based on where they develop:
- Submucosal Fibroids: develop just underneath the internal lining of the uterus
- Intramural Fibroids: develop in the muscular wall of the uterus
- Subserosal Fibroids: develop on the outside of the uterus.
Fibroid Symptoms:
While some fibroids may not cause any noticeable symptoms and can be discovered incidentally during a pelvic exam or prenatal ultrasound, others can lead to various symptoms. The severity of symptoms can vary widely among individuals. Some common symptoms of fibroids include:
Changes to Menstrual Cycles:
- Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia): Fibroids can cause heavy or prolonged menstrual periods, leading to the need for frequent changing of sanitary products.
Pelvic Pain and Pressure:
- Fibroids can cause a feeling of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen. In some cases, this may be accompanied by pelvic pain, abdominal pain, or discomfort.
Urinary Symptoms:
- Frequent Urination: Fibroids that press against the bladder can cause a frequent need to urinate.
- Difficulty Emptying the Bladder: Larger fibroids can obstruct the bladder, leading to difficulty in fully emptying the bladder.
Bowel Symptoms:
- Constipation: Fibroids may exert pressure on the rectum, causing constipation or making it difficult to have regular bowel movements.
- Bloating: Some individuals may experience bloating or a feeling of fullness due to fibroids’ impact on the gastrointestinal tract. They can also lead to digestive issues.
Backache or Leg Pain:
- Fibroids can press on nerves in the back and cause back pain or leg pains.
Pelvic Pain During Intercourse:
- Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse can occur due to the presence of fibroids.
Enlarged Abdomen or Uterus:
- In some cases, fibroids can cause the uterus to enlarge, leading to an enlarged abdomen.
Complications During Pregnancy and Labor:
- Fibroids can sometimes lead to complications during pregnancy or labor, depending on their size and location.
It’s important to note that not everyone with fibroids will experience symptoms, and the presence of fibroids does not necessarily indicate a need for treatment. However, if you experience symptoms that affect your quality of life, you should advocate for yourself and discuss treatment options with a healthcare professional.
Can Fibroids Cause Weight Gain?
Yes, fibroids can cause weight gain. They can grow to large sizes and become heavy. While many remain small, some can grow large enough to cause swelling in the abdomen. In extreme cases, ‘giant’-sized fibroids can be over 25 pounds. The largest ever recorded fibroid was 140 pounds!
Fibroids can grow quickly, especially during estrogen surges like during pre-menopausal hormone swings, or due to diet changes or stress. Large ones can stretch your uterus to the point of looking several months pregnant.
Can Fibroids Cause Bloating?
Yes, fibroids can potentially contribute to abdominal bloating in some individuals. While bloating is not always directly attributed to fibroids, they can cause various symptoms that might contribute to feelings of abdominal discomfort, including bloating. Fibroids can lead to bloating through several mechanisms:
- Enlarged Uterus: Fibroids are abnormal growths of uterine muscle tissue that can vary in size. In some cases, they can cause the uterus to become enlarged. As the uterus expands beyond its normal size, it can create a sensation of fullness and bloating in the lower abdomen.
- Pressure on Surrounding Organs: Depending on the size and location, they may exert pressure on adjacent organs. For example, if a fibroid is pressing against the bladder, it can lead to increased frequency of urination and a feeling of fullness. Similarly, fibroids near the rectum may cause pressure that contributes to sensations of bloating and changes in bowel habits.
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Fibroids can affect the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as constipation, gas, and bloating. The pressure applied by fibroids on the intestines may disrupt normal bowel function, causing abdominal discomfort and digestive problems.
- Fluid Retention: Some individuals may experience fluid retention, leading to bloating. The hormonal changes associated with fibroids, particularly fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels, can contribute to water retention and bloating.
- Impact on Digestive Function: Fibroids might influence digestive processes, potentially leading to symptoms like bloating. The intricate relationship between the uterus, surrounding organs, and the digestive system can be disrupted by the presence of fibroids.
Are Fibroids Dangerous?
Yes, fibroids can be dangerous, depending on their size and location. Untreated fibroids can continue growing to very large sizes and can cause several complications. Some complications include:
- Shortness of breath
- Fibroids can rupture. If a large fibroid bursts, it can cause extreme pain.
- Large fibroids can cause damage to your uterus during surgical removal.
- Fibroids on the inside of your uterus can impact and change your uterine lining, impacting your ability to become pregnant if they are not removed.
- Large fibroids can lead to blood clots, including a pulmonary embolism, a blood clot in your lung, that can be fatal.
Due to these serious complications, it’s important to explore treatment options with your healthcare team as soon as possible. The growth of fibroids can be very fast, so early intervention from a fibroid specialist is crucial.
Fibroid Treatment Options:
The treatment options for fibroids vary depending on the severity of symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, and your overall health and preferences. Here are some common approaches to managing fibroids:
Watchful Waiting:
- In cases where fibroids are small, not causing symptoms, or are near menopause, a “watchful waiting” approach may be recommended. Regular monitoring without active treatment is an option.
Medications:
- Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help alleviate menstrual cramps and pelvic pain.
- Hormonal Medications: Hormonal medications such as birth control pills, hormonal IUDs, or hormone therapy can help manage symptoms like heavy bleeding and pelvic pain.
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Agonists:
- These medications induce a temporary menopause-like state, shrinking fibroids and reducing symptoms. They are typically used for short-term relief.
Non-Invasive Procedures:
- Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE): This procedure involves blocking the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink.
- MRI-Guided High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS): This non-invasive procedure uses ultrasound waves to destroy fibroids.
Minimally Invasive Procedures:
- Myomectomy: This surgical procedure involves the removal of individual fibroids while preserving the uterus. It is an option for those who want to retain fertility.
- Hysteroscopic Myomectomy: Suitable for fibroids that bulge into the uterine cavity, this procedure involves removing fibroids using a hysteroscope inserted through the cervix.
Surgical Options:
- Hysterectomy: In cases where symptoms are severe, and fertility is not a concern, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be recommended.
- Endometrial Ablation: This procedure removes or destroys the lining of the uterus and is often used to control heavy bleeding.
Focused Ultrasound Surgery (FUS):
- This non-invasive procedure uses focused ultrasound waves to heat and destroy uterine fibroids.
Lifestyle Recommendations:
Lifestyle recommendations for managing fibroids typically revolve around promoting overall health and well-being. It’s important to note that these healthy lifestyle recommendations may vary from person to person, and you should consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. While these lifestyle changes may not directly treat fibroids, they can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
- Healthy Diet: Opt for a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Consider incorporating anti-inflammatory foods and avoiding excessive consumption of processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day. Proper hydration supports overall health and may contribute to symptom management.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to help manage weight and promote circulation. Exercise has been associated with a reduction in fibroid symptoms.
- Manage Stress: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. Chronic stress may exacerbate fibroid symptoms.
- Adequate Sleep: Prioritize getting enough restorative sleep each night. Quality sleep is essential for overall health and can contribute to symptom relief.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Achieve and maintain a healthy weight through a combination of diet and exercise. Being overweight has been linked to an increased risk of fibroids and may worsen symptoms.
- Avoid Endocrine Disruptors: Minimize exposure to environmental toxins and endocrine disruptors. These substances, found in some plastics and pesticides, may influence hormone levels and potentially impact fibroid growth.
- Regular Medical Check-ups: Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider. Monitoring fibroid growth and overall gynecological health is crucial for timely intervention.
- Explore Alternative Therapies: Consider complementary therapies such as acupuncture, massage, or chiropractic care. While scientific evidence may vary, some individuals have found relief from symptoms through these approaches.
- Educate Yourself: Stay informed about fibroids, their symptoms, and available treatment options. Knowledge helps empower you to make informed decisions about your health and feel more in control.
Conclusion:
It’s important for individuals experiencing persistent or bothersome symptoms, including bloating, to seek medical advice. While fibroids are noncancerous tumors, they can become very dangerous if left untreated. If you think you may have fibroids, a healthcare professional can perform further investigation and a thorough evaluation to assess the size, location, and impact of fibroids. Treatment options can then be discussed based on your specific circumstances and symptoms. While dealing with health issues can be overwhelming, learning more about and tracking your condition can help you make empowered decisions for your health.