Understanding Uterine Fibroids

Even though an estimated 40% of all women have non-cancerous muscle tumors known as Uterine Fibroids the condition is not often discussed and because of this lack of knowledge many who are diagnosed immediately grow alarmed. That reaction is only natural considering the fact that the diagnosis of a 'tumor' in most cases is automatically means surgery. However, when it comes to fibroids many women who have this problem are not aware of it until late in life if at all.

Uterine Fibroids begin to form as a result of an error in the gene that regulates the rate of replication in the muscle cells of the uterus. This genetic error appears to be regulated and makes the cells grow at a rapid rate until the form together to create a mass known as a fibroid. While the exact cause of this error is not known it is apparent that Uterine Fibroids are more common in women of African-American and Jewish decent.

In most cases the fibroids do not cause any physical symptoms or side effects that can disrupt a normal routine. They are often diagnosed during pelvic examinations and the size and location of the fibroids can usually be determined during a gynecologist exam or an ultrasound. As long as the fibroids remain small and are not causing any physical problems there is usually no reason to remove them.

Unfortunately Uterine Fibroids can lead to serious complications if they begin to grow. Problems sometimes occurring during menstruation when the fibroids cause heavy bleeding lasting as many as 15 days or more. This abnormally long menstruation is often accompanied with the passing of large clots and sometime severe anemia which can cause one to feel weak, light headed, or faint.

These large fibroids can also lead to fertility problems by disrupting the normal functions of the uterus either preventing or disrupting a normal pregnancy. The presence of the fibroids on the uterine wall can often prevent the fertilized egg from being implanted on the walls of the uterus. In the event that the fertilized egg is able to attach itself to the uterine wall the production of excess estrogen will cause the fibroids to grow as well which will eventually cause the fertilized to become detached and leading to a miscarriage.

When these more serious symptoms occur a physician may feel the need to begin treatment. The type of treatments available for Uterine Fibroids varies and are often chosen based on the severity of the existing symptoms. For those suffering from mild discomfort birth control pills and anti-inflammatory drugs can help prevent the fibroids from growing in size. In other situations hormone injections can be used to shrink the fibroids in an attempt to either allow time to prepare for a surgery or the onset of menopause which, because of the lack of hormones being produced, stops the growth of fibroids.

In situations where surgery is deemed necessary there are outpatient procedures available the fibroids are removed by inserting instruments through the cervix to enter the uterus. This procedure often preserves fertility and women go on to have healthy children. While the diagnosis of fibroids can be a frightening experience they are treatable and it is possible to live a normal life following diagnosis and treatment. There are groups such as the National Uterine Fibroids Foundation which help provide support and information for those dealing with the disease. If you have questions regarding this disorder in many cases your gynecologist can provide the answers you need.