fibroids of uterus, types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis and management

Medically Reviewed by Dr Sravya, MBBS, MS

Introduction

Imagine a time when uterine fibroids no longer cause women to experience ongoing discomfort or health issues.

Thankfully, we are getting closer to realising this thanks to our dedication to knowledge and medical improvements. Numerous women around the world are affected with uterine fibroids, a disorder that is common yet sometimes misunderstood.

In this article, we will cover the different Uterine fibroids Types. Join us on this journey as we expose the myths surrounding fibroids, which the women need to manage their health.

In This Article

Various Uterine Fibroids Types

The most prevalent uterine fibroid types are subserosal fibroids. They sprout up on the exterior of the uterus. These fibroids frequently spread outward, which could give the uterus the appearance of being larger or bulky.

There are various Uterine Fibroid Types, and each has its own characteristics and effects. These three Uterine Fibroid Types can be roughly divided into:

Subserosal Fibroids: These fibroids form on the uterus' outer layer and can result in a weak uterus. Although they frequently cause discomfort, this kind is usually not connected to severe menstrual flow.
Symptoms: Although these fibroids may not result in noticeable menstrual bleeding, they can nevertheless cause Uterine Fibroid Symptoms, including pelvic pressure, backaches, and a sense of fullness. -
Impact on Fertility: Subserosal fibroids have a lower propensity than other forms to interfere with fertility. They might, however, occasionally press against the fallopian tubes, perhaps preventing pregnancy.

Intramural Fibroids: These tumours develop inside the uterus's muscular walls and can alter the uterine chamber. Heavy menstrual blood and pelvic pain are possible Uterine Fibroid Symptoms. The majority of intramural fibroids are discovered within the actual uterus's muscular wall. This uterine cavity may become deformed as a result of the size and number of these fibroids, which might vary. Some essential traits are as follows:
Symptoms: Women with intramural fibroids may have pain and pressure upon menstruation, as well as pelvic pain.
Impact on Fertility: Depending on their size and location, intramural fibroids might impair fertility by altering the uterine cavity's shape or obstructing the fallopian tubes.

Submucosal Fibroids: These tumours only cause substantial menstrual bleeding, and problems with conception might occur behind the lining of the uterine cavity. The least frequent uterine blood vessels are submucosal blood vessels, which are also the ones most likely to have severe symptoms and affect fertility. The uterine cavity's lining is immediately above where these fibroids grow. Some essential traits are as follows:
Location: Within the submucosa, fibroids press frequently into the endometrial lining of the uterine cavity.
Symptoms: Heavy menstrual flow, protracted periods, and excruciating cramps are common in women with submucosal fibroids. Recurrent miscarriages may also be brought on by these fibroids.
Impact on Fertility: Because submucosal fibroids directly impact the uterine lining and have the potential to impede the fallopian tubes, they are more likely to disrupt fertility.

Pedunculated Fibroids

A subtype of fibroids known as “pedunculated fibroids” can develop anywhere (subserosal, intramural, or submucosal). They can be distinguished by the “peduncle” or stalk that connects them to the uterine wall. These fibroids occasionally twist on their stalk, producing excruciating discomfort.
Pedunculated fibroids can be seen in a variety of places, depending on where they are attached.

To accurately diagnose patients, healthcare professionals must have a thorough understanding of the different forms of uterine fibroids. The size, location, and symptoms of the fibroids are frequently taken into consideration while deciding on a course of treatment. It’s critical to have treatment options with a healthcare provider if you suspect you have uterine fibroid symptoms.

Bulky Uterus with Subserosal fibroids

Many women may be alarmed by a Bulky uterus with a subserosal fibroid. Subserosal fibroids form on the uterus’outer layer and may give the impression that it is larger. Uterine Fibroid Symptoms like pelvic pressure and a fullness feeling may result from this. It is important to see a doctor for a precise Uterine Fibroids Diagnosis and the best course of treatment.

Causes for Fibroids

Research is still being done to determine the precise Causes of uterine Fibroids. But a number of things have been connected to their evolution including.

Hormonal Imbalance: The hormones progesterone and oestrogen, which control the menstrual cycle, also appear to be important in the development of fibroid.
Genetics: You may be more likely to get fibroids if your mother or sister did.
Age: Women of African heritage typically get fibroids at an older age and at a higher frequency.

Uterine Fibroids Symptoms

The key to successful management of uterine fibroids is early detection. Uterine Fibroids Symptoms may include the following and can range in severity:

Heavy bleeding during the menstrual cycle
Pressure in the pelvis.
Urinating frequently
Leg soreness or a backache
Hurting while having sex.
Big Uterus or huge abdomen
Evaluation for Uterine Fibroids

Identifying Uterine Fibroids

It’s crucial to get a correct Uterine Fibroids Diagnosis while dealing with Uterine fibroids Symptoms. Among the Uterine Fibroids Diagnosis
techniques are:

Pelvic Examination: During a pelvic exam, a medical professional can frequently feel the presence of fibroids.
Ultrasound: Abdominal ultrasound can produce finely detailed images of the uterus that can help in Uterine Fibroids diagnosis.
MRI: The technique known as Magnetic resonance imaging can give a thorough picture of fibroids and identify their size and position.

Management of uterine fibroids

The severity of Uterine Fibroid Symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, and the person’s reproductive objectives all affect how the condition is managed.

Treatment choices could be: The term "watchful waiting" refers to monitoring without treatment if the fibroids are tiny and asymptomatic.
Medication: Hormonal drugs, such as birth control tablets, can lessen Uterine Fibroid Symptoms. Procedures that are relatively simple include surgeries like myomectomy and uterine artery embolization for individuals who exhibit severe Uterine Fibroid Symptoms.
Hysterectomy: As a final option, a surgery called a hysterectomy could be thought about in serious instances or where fertility is unimportant.

Hormone releasing IUCD in treatment

The effectiveness of intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs), sometimes known as intrauterine devices (IUDs), in preventing conception is well known. Some IUCDs, however, go beyond contraception and are made to release hormones, adding a new dimension to their usefulness. These hormone- releasing IUCDs.

These are a well-liked option for women looking for an effective, long-term contraceptive treatment with a variety of therapeutic advantages. A healthcare professional inserts a hormonal IUD, which is commonly a T-shaped device composed of soft, flexible plastic, into the uterus. They function by continuously delivering a little dosage of synthetic progestin hormone into the uterus.

Levonorgestrel, a hormone, has a number of important effects, making hormonal IUDs useful for treating a variety of gynaecological disorders in addition to serving as efficient contraceptives. Hormonal IUDs are the most effective method of birth control. They prevent conception by weakening the uterine lining which makes it difficult for sperm to access and fertilise an egg.

Menstrual Regulation: Hormonal IUDs can greatly lessen menstrual bleeding and relieve the signs and symptoms of severe cramps. While utilising these devices, some women may even enjoy lighter periods. Which can be very beneficial for individuals who have severe or difficult menstrual cycles.
Endometriosis: Hormonal IUDs are recommended to treat endometriosis which is a painful condition. The endometrium is the tissue that lines the uterus—grows outside the uterus. The progestin hormone contained in IUDs can help regulate endometrial tissue growth and lessen the pain it causes.
Adenomyosis: Adenomyosis is a disorder that results in severe bleeding and discomfort as endometrial tissue develops into the uterus's muscular walls. By weakening the endometrial lining and lessening the severity of symptoms, hormonal IUDs can offer relief. Hormonal IUDs may also act as a preventative measure against pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). It is a potentially dangerous infection of the female reproductive system. Local progesterone release from the device may modify cervical mucus and lower the chance of ascending infections.
Fibroid Management: Hormonal IUDs can help manage heavy bleeding linked to uterine fibroids, offering some women symptomatic relief even though they are not a main treatment for uterine fibroids. Protection Against Ovarian and Endometrial Cancer: According to some research, hormonal IUDs may have certain anti-cancer properties. The uterine hormonal environment may prevent cancer cells from proliferating.

Conclusion

Many women may have pain from uterine fibroids and worry about them. The first stage in their care is to understand their types, causes, symptoms, and diagnosis. Working together with your healthcare professional will help you decide the best course of action.

Whether you have been diagnosed with fibroids or are just suspecting that you may have them. You can take charge of your health by being aware and proactive, assuring a better future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can fibroids lead to infertility?

Submucosal fibroids, which expand inside the uterus, can hinder conception. According to their size and location, other types may also have an impact on fertility.

Are Fibroids cancerous?

Fibroids rarely have cancer and are often non-cancerous. To tell them apart from other illnesses, though, requires a precise diagnosis.

Can fibroids be prevented?

A Healthy lifestyle and frequent medical exams can aid in the early discovery and management of fibroids, but there is no foolproof way to prevent them.