FIBROID TUMORS

USA FIBROID CENTERS

FIBROID TUMORS

USA FIBROID CENTERS

FIBROID TUMORS

What are uterine fibroid tumors? Also known as leiomyomas, fibroids, or fibroid tumors –– fibroids are benign, noncancerous growths that can develop in or on the uterus. They form individually or in clusters, and typically range in size from a tiny pea to as large as a melon. Some of the largest ones can weigh more than twenty pounds.

Different types of fibroids exist based on their location.

Intramural fibroids grow within the muscular walls of the uterus

Subserosal fibroids grow on the outside of the uterus

Submucosal fibroids grow in the lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium

Pedunculated fibroids are growths that attach to the wall by a stalk

Although fibroid tumors are not generally considered dangerous, uterine fibroids have the potential to harm surrounding organs, impact fertility, and cause a range of painful and undesirable symptoms.

Each body is different, and everyone experiences fibroids differently.

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WHAT IS A FIBROID TUMOR?

Uterine fibroid tumors are common during the childbearing years, affecting as many as 80 percent of women by age 50. Despite their prevalence, a fibroid tumor can often go unnoticed until painful, uncomfortable, and unpleasant symptoms arise, such as heavy periods, severe cramps, and low energy.

If you are experiencing fibroid tumor symptoms, you probably already know how challenging it can be to cope with this condition. For some, fibroid symptoms are completely debilitating ––impacting career, social life, personal relationships, and selfesteem.

The good news is that by learning more about uterine fibroids and potential treatment for fibroid tumors, you will be able to take control of your health better. Whether you’ve been diagnosed already or are still searching for answers, our fibroid experts are here to guide you. Here’s everything you need to know about fibroid tumors in the uterus and what to do about them.

WHAT CAUSES FIBROID TUMORS?

Although doctors aren’t sure exactly what are fibroid tumor causes, factors that may influence their growth include:

Hormones Genetics Age

Studies indicate that fibroids tend to grow during times when the levels of hormones affecting the uterine lining –– such as estrogen and progesterone –– are high. For example, pregnancy is a common time for fibroid growth, whereas fibroid tumors tend to shrink after giving birth or beyond menopause.

Your age is an important risk factor. While you can develop fibroids at any age, if you are in your childbearing years, the odds of developing them are higher. On the other hand, women beyond age 50 are less likely to experience symptomatic fibroids. Finally, there appears to be a genetic link. If you have a close female relative with fibroids, you are more likely to develop them. Also, women of African-American descent are disproportionately affected by fibroid tumors.

FIBROID TUMOR SYMPTOMS

The majority of people with uterine fibroids experience no noticeable symptoms. However, some cases of fibroids can be quite debilitating, and the condition can disrupt daily activities. Whether or not this occurs often depends on the fibroids’ size, number, and location. All of these factors can affect the severity of symptoms. Larger or multiple fibroids, for instance, are more likely to cause problems. Common symptoms of fibroid tumors include:

Pelvic pain or pressure

Heavy periods lasting 10 days or longer

Abnormal bleeding between periods

Pain during sexual intercourse

Lower back pain

Frequent need to urinate or trouble urinating

Heaviness or fullness of the abdomen

Anemia caused by heavy bleeding

Enlargement of the abdomen

FIBROID TUMOR IN UTERUS

A fibroid tumor can grow in the lining or within the muscular wall. As they grow, they can cause the uterus to expand as if you were pregnant. You may look pregnant, or like you’ve gained weight in the abdominal area.

Fibroids and pregnancy don’t go well together. The increase in hormone levels from pregnancy can cause fibroids to grow, and those asymptomatic develop severe symptoms. As the fibroid gets larger, it can take up the space needed for the baby. It can also cause the uterus to press on other organs, such as the bladder and bowel.

WHICH FIBROID SIZES ARE DANGEROUS?

Small fibroid: would be up to 20 mm but no more than the size of a cherry

Medium fibroid: would be from 20 to 60 mm, and can be the size of a plum up to an orange

Large fibroids are at least 60 mm, and can be comparable to a grapefruit up to a watermelon

TREATMENT FOR FIBROID TUMORS

We want you to know that help is available, and there are many different treatments available for fibroid tumors in the uterus. The ideal treatment for you will depend on the location, number, and size of your fibroids and your personal preferences. Once diagnosed, we recommend consulting with a fibroid specialist to learn about your full range of fibroid tumor treatment options. The first step toward getting treatment is always an assessment of the fibroids. Suspected fibroid tumors can often be detected during a routine pelvic exam. If your doctor thinks you may have fibroids, they’ll likely order an ultrasound or MRI. Your doctor will use the images generated by these exams to map out your fibroids, noting the number of tumors and their location and measurements. Once you know more about your fibroids, you can start considering your fibroid tumor treatment options. Although hysterectomy, or surgical removal of the uterus, is one of the most commonly recommended treatments, it is important to be aware that you have other options.

USA FIBROID CENTERS