FIBROIDS​

What are fibroids?

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths most frequently seen in the uterus of females and are composed of muscle and fibrous tissues.

Often times, these tumors turn out to be large and may cause excessive uterine bleeding, recurrent miscarriages, pain, pressure or severe anaemia. In some cases, they cause no signs or symptoms. Fibroids are mostly benign or non-cancerous. They are also called uterine leiomyomas.

Why do fibroids form?

It’s not yet clear why fibroids grow, yet some factors may impact their growth.

Hormones

Estrogen and progesterone production by the ovaries can cause the lining of the uterus to thicken during the menstrual cycle, and can thus lead to the development of fibroids.

Family history

Fibroids may be inherited from your other family members. If your mother has it, you may have it too.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy increases estrogen and progesterone levels in the body, further leading to the growth of fibroids during pregnancy.

Other risk factors for developing fibroids are an older age, increased body mass index, and an African-American race.

What are the symptoms of fibroids?

Many women wouldn’t know that they have fibroids until they go for a routine pelvic examination. However, when the fibroid grows in size, you might experience these symptoms:

• Prolonged menstrual periods
• Frequent urination
• Pain and discomfort during intercourse
• Pelvic pain
• Back pain
• Abnormal bleeding during periods
• Abdominal distension

How are fibroids diagnosed?

For an appropriate diagnosis, the doctor will perform a pelvic examination to check the size, shape and condition of your uterus. You may likewise require different tests, which include:

Ultrasound

An ultrasound utilises sound waves to create images of your uterus on a screen. This will enable your doctor to see its inner structures and if any fibroids are present. A transvaginal ultrasound, in which the ultrasound probe is placed inside the vagina, may give clearer images.

Pelvic MRI

This imaging test produces images of your uterus, ovaries, and other organs in the pelvis.

How are fibroids treated?

Your doctor will create a treatment plan depending on your age, the size of your fibroids, and your general well-being.

Medications

Medications that will control your hormone levels may be given, such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists. Your doctor may also prescribe birth-control pills and pain medicines.

Surgery

Surgery can remove large fibroids through procedures called hysteroscopy and/or laparoscopy which utilise a couple of holes into which slender tools and a camera are inserted into the womb and/or abdomen. Fibroids may recur after surgery.

What we can do at Thomson Fertility Centre

Our fertility experts can first assess your problem, analyse your symptoms and effectively recommend medications or perform surgery for your fibroids. Talk to us to know more!