Uterine Fibroids Quiz

Understanding Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are non-cancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. They are composed of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary in size from undetectable to bulky masses that can distort the uterus. This guide provides an overview of their types, symptoms, diagnosis, and management.

Types of Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids are classified based on their location within the uterus, which influences the symptoms they may cause:

• Intramural fibroids: These are the most common type, growing within the muscular uterine wall. They can expand, making the uterus feel larger than normal.
• Submucosal fibroids: These grow into the uterine cavity. Even small submucosal fibroids can cause heavy menstrual bleeding and problems with fertility.
• Subserosal fibroids: These project to the outside of the uterus. They can press on nearby organs, like the bladder or rectum, causing pressure symptoms.
• Pedunculated fibroids: When a subserosal or submucosal fibroid develops a stem (peduncle) that attaches it to the uterus, it becomes pedunculated.

Common Symptoms and Signs

Many women with fibroids have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)
• Prolonged menstrual periods (seven days or more of menstrual bleeding)
• Pelvic pressure or pain
• Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
• Constipation
• Backache or leg pains

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase a woman’s risk of developing uterine fibroids. These include age (most common in women in their 30s and 40s), family history, ethnic origin (African-American women are more likely to have fibroids), and lifestyle factors such as obesity.

Diagnostic Methods

Diagnosis typically begins with a pelvic exam. Imaging tests are used to confirm the presence, size, and location of fibroids:

1. Ultrasound: The most common imaging method used to confirm the diagnosis.
2. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Provides more detailed information about the size, number, and location of fibroids.
3. Hysteroscopy: A small, lighted telescope is inserted through the cervix into the uterus to view and examine submucosal fibroids.

Treatment Approaches

Treatment for uterine fibroids ranges from watchful waiting for asymptomatic women to medications and surgical procedures for those with significant symptoms. Options include hormonal therapies, GnRH agonists, uterine artery embolization (UAE), myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids), and hysterectomy (removal of the uterus).

Impact on Pregnancy and Fertility

While many women with fibroids can become pregnant and have healthy babies, certain types—particularly submucosal fibroids—can interfere with fertility or increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, such as miscarriage, preterm delivery, and placental abruption.

This information is for educational enrichment and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.