Uterine fibroid tumors or leiomyomas are among the most common
tumors among women. In fact, it is apparent in 25-50% of women, says
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Uterine fibroid
tumors are typically non-cancerous; however, there is still the need to
be aware of these tumors and some dangers it may bring to your health.
To give you better understanding of these tumors, here are answers to frequently asked questions on uterine fibroid tumors:
What are uterine fibroid tumors?
Uterine
fibroid tumors, medically known as uterine leiomyomata or simply myoma,
are growths consisting of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective
tissues usually found within the wall of the uterus. Some grow below the
lining of the uterus; some grow between the muscles of the uterus,
while some grow towards the exterior part of the uterus. Uterine
fibroid tumors may grow in clusters or as a single nodule and may vary
in size.
What are the causes of uterine fibroid tumors?
Scientific
researches have not yet finally identified the causes of uterine
fibroid tumors. It has been theorized though that uterine fibroid tumors
result from hormonal, genetic and environmental factors, which may be
present in combinations in every case.
Are uterine fibroid tumors cancerous?
Though
considered as tumors, uterine fibroid tumors are mostly benign, which
means that in most instances, they are not as dangerous as cancerous
tumors. Cases of uterine fibroid tumors turning into cancer is very
rare, however, it is possible. Although having uterine fibroid tumors is
generally not dangerous (it also has nothing to do with cancer of the
uterus), it is uneasy to live with; hence, women opt to have their
uterine fibroid tumors removed.
Who gets uterine fibroid tumors?
In
most instances, uterine fibroid tumors develop in women of childbearing
age, usually those in the 30s and 40s. However, researches show that
women who have previously given birth are less likely to develop uterine
fibroid tumors. In addition, it has been found out that overweight
women and young African women are more prone to developing uterine
fibroid tumors. The reasons for these are not yet known, however, these
facts have been prevalently observed.
What are the symptoms indicating presence of uterine fibroid tumors?
In
many instances, uterine fibroid tumors do not cause symptoms, but some
women having these benign tumors say they experience pain and heavy
bleeding during menstrual periods while some experience bleeding in
between their menstrual period. She also urinates more often (due to the
pressure of the fibroids to the bladder) and feels full in the lower
part of the abdomen.
Some women also experience pain in the lower
back and pain during intercourse. Other signs of uterine fibroid tumors
include miscarriage, complications during pregnancy and infertility.
How are uterine fibroid tumors detected?
Uterine
fibroid tumors are detected through pelvic examination. This lets your
doctor check your vagina, ovaries and uterus. Imaging tests such as
ultrasound, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), x-rays, and CT scan can
also help the doctor detect presence of uterine fibroid tumors in your
uterus.
Is treatment necessary?
Treatment of the uterine
fibroid tumors is not necessary however since symptoms can be severe on
some women, they prefer to have their fibroids treated. The main
treatment for uterine fibroid tumors is uterine fibroid embolization
(UFE). This is a modestly invasive procedure wherein a small tube is
inserted into an artery towards the uterine artery. This allows the
interventional radiologist to bring in small plastic beads into the
artery supplying blood to the uterine fibroid tumors. In this way, blood
flow to the uterine fibroid tumor is blocked causing it to shrink;
hence, symptoms are relieved.By
Jeanette Pollock
