The uterus is the place that harbors a developing fetus during pregnancy. This crucial reproductive organ is typically lemon-shaped. However, uterine walls may have benign growths comprised of muscle and connective tissue called fibroids. Many women with uterine fibroids in Houston, TX, may have a single growth or a cluster. Moreover, uterine fibroids do not grow on the inside surface of a woman’s womb but the outside. For this reason, you should not expect to experience similar symptoms because uterine fibroids manifest uniquely for women, and it is why doctors choose to individualize treatment for optimal results.
Who is at risk for uterine fibroids?
Some of the factors that make a woman vulnerable to developing uterine fibroids include:
- Not having children: If you are yet to give birth, you are at a higher risk of developing these uterine growths.
- Genetics: There are specific genes associated with fibroids. Therefore, if you have a family member who has had the condition, you are at risk of developing uterine fibroids.
- Some women who experienced early onset menstruation develop uterine fibroids in the future.
- Obesity: women with body weight above nutritional standards can develop uterine fibroids.
What are the different types of uterine fibroids?
It is essential for your doctor to correctly diagnose your fibroids because this information helps develop an ideal treatment plan for you. To better analyze your fibroids, your doctor will consider things like location and size. Uterine fibroids have names that correspond to their site. For example:
- Submucosal fibroids: These fibroids occur inside the uterine cavity.
- Intramural fibroids: These fibroids are on the muscular walls of the uterus.
- Subserosal fibroids: These are uterine fibroids found on the outside walls.
- Pedunculated fibroids: Although found outside, they have a thin stem that connects them to the uterus walls.
What are the symptoms of uterine fibroids?
Some women, specifically those with smaller fibroids, do not experience any symptoms. Consequently, these fibroids are asymptomatic and may not require any treatment because they pose no threat. However, if your uterine fibroids are considerably more prominent, you may have a variety of symptoms, including:
- Heavier and more painful menstruation
- Frequent urination due to the large fibroids putting pressure on your bladder
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Constipation
How are uterine fibroids diagnosed?
It is essential to go for regular exams because a health provider will first discover that you have uterine fibroids. Also, pregnant women with fibroids may get the diagnosis of uterine fibroid during their prenatal care visits. Your doctor may use specific imaging tests like ultrasonography, MRI, or CT scans to confirm your fibroids’ location and size for a thorough assessment.
How are uterine fibroids treated?
The ideal treatment for you will depend on various factors that make your condition unique, like the size and location of your uterine fibroids. Sometimes your doctor may decide to leave your fibroids alone, especially when they are small and asymptomatic. However, they will still require regular monitoring. The best treatment option for uterine fibroids should accommodate your future fertility goals. Contact Alate Health to learn more about the treatment options available for uterine fibroids and which one is ideal for your condition to help relieve symptoms and improve your quality of life.
