Uterine fibroids are quite common, with experts estimating that 70% to 80% of all women will develop fibroids at some point in their lives. However, it is difficult to speak with exact numbers as most fibroids are so small that they never cause problems. Most of the time, these benign (noncancerous) masses cause little to no problems. However, there are cases where fibroids require treatment. The more you know about fibroids and how they are detected, the better you can determine their location and course of treatment if necessary.

They are benign tumors, not cancerous.

Fibroids are non-cancerous tumors. They occur when cells multiply excessively and form an elastic mass in the muscle tissue of the uterus. Their malignant form is sarcoma.In some cases, the gynecologist may notice a lump that is of concern. In this case, they will refer you for a biopsy, and the results will provide information on whether the lump is a benign fibroid or something else.

You may encounter them under a different name.

In the medical world, fibroid tumors are also called:

• Fibroids
• Uterine fibroids
• Leiomyomas
• Fibroids

All four of these terms refer to the same thing: a benign uterine tumor. So don't be alarmed if you hear your doctor use one of these technical terms or if you see this term in your medical records.

“Problematic” tumors usually cause symptoms

Larger tumors, or tumors that grow enough to affect other pelvic organs, usually cause symptoms. The most common symptoms associated with fibroids are:

• Pain or tenderness in the pelvic area that is not related to PMS
• Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse or penetration
• Irregular bleeding or spotting
• Heavy bleeding, prolonged bleeding, and clots during your period
• Constant feeling of fullness or bloating
• Pressure on the intestines leading to unusual constipation
• Pressure on the bladder which can cause frequent urination or incontinence

Never ignore these symptoms. Contact your gynecologist and let them know what you are experiencing. 

They can cause infertility

Fibroids can also make it difficult for you to conceive or have a full-term baby. Depending on where the fibroid tumor is located, it can affect:

• The arrest
• The ability of a fertilized egg to implant in the uterus
• The shape or size of the uterus, which can cause miscarriages

This is one of the reasons we recommend scheduling a pre-conception appointment when you wish to get pregnant. 

Fibroids could be a cause of recurrent miscarriages

Most of the time, recurrent miscarriages are a sign that there is some incompatibility in the process. For some, it is poor quality sperm or eggs. Most of the time it indicates a chromosomal or genetic abnormality. However, recurrent miscarriages can also be a sign of uterine abnormalities – including fibroids that pose a risk to implantation or fetal development. Miscarriages related to fibroids usually occur in the first trimester. However, fibroids can also increase a woman’s risk of premature birth.

They can negatively affect every stage of pregnancy

Miscarriage and premature birth are two risks of fibroids. However, during the second and third trimesters, fibroids can contribute to:

• More intense pregnancy pain/discomfort
• Placental abruption

Hormones influence the growth of fibroids

Although we are not 100% sure why some women develop fibroids and others do not – or why some women develop larger or more complex fibroids – a link has been identified between fibroid development and fluctuations in reproductive hormones. Women are most likely to develop fibroids during their reproductive years – between the ages of 30 and 50. This is because they tend to grow and shrink in proportion to estrogen and progesterone levels. For this reason, women who become pregnant while they have fibroids may experience fibroid growth along with the surge in pregnancy hormones.

Lifestyle choices minimize the risk of fibroids

There is a genetic link to developing fibroids, so they are more likely to occur in women with a family history of fibroids. However, most studies conclude that women are more likely to develop fibroids when:

• Are overweight or obese
• They consume alcohol on a daily basis
• These are followed by diets that include an increased amount of red meat and cold cuts and are less focused on vegetables and fruits.

If your genetic or personal history makes you more prone to developing fibroids, weight management, healthy lifestyle choices, a focus on a plant-based diet, and regular gynecological checkups can help.

Fibroids are treatable in most cases (when necessary)

If fibroids are not causing problems or are not compromising the lining of the uterus, no treatment is needed. We can discuss treatment options if they are causing symptoms, pain, or compromising fertility or a healthy pregnancy.If a tumor is very large or causing problems, we may recommend surgery. This may involve removing the tumor (myomectomy – which leaves the uterus intact) or a hysterectomy (where we remove the uterus completely).

Do you have questions about fibroids and their management?

Do you suspect you have fibroids? Or do you have a history of fibroids and would like to discuss your treatment options? Schedule an appointment with us by calling (+30) 2310 220267 or by filling out the relevant contact form. We look forward to hearing from you!