Uterine Fibroids: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Cost

Uterine Fibroids, also known as myomas, are abnormal tissue growth in one’s uterus. These muscular tumors are often non-cancerous and do not show an increased risk of uterine cancer.

Most women do not display the general uterine fibroids symptoms, which makes it difficult to recognize whether a woman has fibroids or not. In cases where the tumor grows and becomes quite large, these uterine fibroids might cause heavy bleeding and painful periods.

Some other names for uterine fibroids are fibromas, uterine myomas, myomas, and leiomyomas.

The growth of non-cancerous tissues on the uterine wall is a common phenomenon in women. Studies by the Office on Women’s Health, every eight in ten women develop uterine fibroids by 50 years.

However, the absence of any signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids leads to most women not finding out. In most cases, the uterine fibroids are discovered accidentally during a regular pelvic or gynecological examination.

Uterine Fibroids largely vary in shape, size, and location. These often benign tumors might grow in clusters or a single node. The size of these fibroids might range between the size of a seedling and that of a watermelon.

Moreover, uterine fibroids can grow inside the uterine cavity, outside the uterine wall, or within the wall as well. Other than the notable variation in shape and size, uterine fibroids can also grow in different locations outside and within the uterus.

Doctors classify uterine fibroids into different classes based on their location. The location, size, and number of uterine fibroids affect the diagnosis and treatment plans.

Fibroids are mostly made up of smooth muscle cells and other bodily tissues. Hence, most uterine fibroids look like round lumps and nodes of smooth muscle tissues in and around the uterus. In some cases, these fibroids attach to the uterus with a stalk-like structure, giving it a look similar to a mushroom.

The different locations of growth of uterine fibroids affect the process of opted treatment. Hence, classification is necessary to make it easier to refer to the location as and when needed. The different types of uterine fibroids based on their location are:-

• Intramural Fibroids - In most cases, uterine fibroids grow inside the uterine wall. These are called intramural fibroids, which can affect the size of the womb.
• Subserosal Fibroids - The outside of the uterus is known as serosa, and these subserosal fibroids are found there. In cases where the fibroid is too large, the womb may appear to be larger on one side.
• Pedunculated Fibroids - In case a subserosal fibroid develops a thin base to support the tumor, it is known as a pedunculated fibroid.
• Submucosal Fibroids - When uterine fibroids grow in the uterine cavity or myometrium, they are called submucosal fibroids. These cases occur rarely, unlike the other types.

The symptoms of uterine fibroids depend on their shape, size, and location of the same. In cases of submucosal fibroids, one experiences trouble getting pregnant and heavy bleeding during periods.

However, most women do not witness any signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids, which is why it might go unnoticeable. Moreover, if you’re undergoing menopause, your estrogen and progesterone levels, the hormones that stimulate fibroid growth, dip.

Thus, you might not notice any signs of uterine fibroids for smaller growths or when you’re in menopause.

Some common signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids that you can look out for include:-

• Increased bleeding between/during your menstrual periods including blood clots
• Frequent bloating or pain in the lower abdominal region
• Urge to urinate frequently (when the fibroids pressurize the bladder)
• Lower back pain
• Painful sexual intercourse that leads to an inability to engage in it
• Persistent vaginal discharge

Sometimes, these symptoms go away after your hormone levels have stabilized due to menopause or medications.

The exact reason for the development and growth of uterine fibroids is not clear. However, some causes of uterine fibroids that factor in include:-

• Hormonal Levels - Estrogen and Progesterone are responsible for the thickening of the uterine walls during ovulation. Studies have thus linked these hormones to fibroid growth. Another piece of evidence is that during menopause, these hormone levels decrease and the symptoms of uterine fibroids disappear.
• Genetics - Studies have found that women whose mother, grandmother, sister, or anyone down the family tree has experienced uterine fibroids are at a greater risk of the same.
• Pregnancy - The estrogen and progesterone levels of the body are high during pregnancy, which might lead to the rapid growth of uterine fibroids.
• Extracellular Matrix - ECM (Extracellular Matrix) causes the cells to stick together and fibroids have noticeably higher ECM content than normal cells. Thus, ECM growth factors can cause uterine fibroids.
• Other Factors - Insulin-like growth factors and other tissue upkeeps can stimulate the growth of uterine fibroids.

Some common risk factors that can increase the chances of growth of uterine fibroids include:-

• High BMI (Body Mass Index)
• 30 years of age or older women
• Pregnancy
• Family History

• In cases of small uterine fibroids, one might not experience any discomfort or the aforementioned signs of uterine fibroids. However, larger tissue growth can be painful and lead to the rise of different uterine fibroids symptoms. Some women might feel bloated or face pain in the lower abdomen.
• Others might face heavy menstrual bleeding, abdominal cramps, and lower back pain. Discomfort during sexual intercourse and urination are some other common symptoms of uterine fibroids.
• If you experience any of these or notice anything out of the ordinary, contact your gynecologist for a detailed examination, diagnosis, and treatment.

Uterine fibroids might cause a lot of discomfort and pain, but it is not harmful. Fibroids might also cause further complications like heavy blood loss leading to anemia. It might also lead to fatigue and hamper an individual’s daily lifestyle.

In certain rare cases, fibroids grow and transform into cancerous tissue clumps. Statistics state that about 0.3% of uterine fibroids become malignant. There is no definite test to predict whether a fibroid will become cancerous or not.

However, women experiencing unusual fibroid growth or development of uterine fibroids during menopause are evaluated on a priority basis.

Other than the causes of uterine fibroids mentioned in the above sections, some factors that can boost your chances of developing uterine fibroids include:-

• Age - Women who are above 30 years experience high hormone levels, which can lead to the growth of uterine fibroids.
• Race - Statistics suggest that women who belong to the African-American race are affected by uterine fibroids.
• Contraceptives - Hormonal contraceptive pills containing progesterone and estrogen can lead to higher chances of fibroid growth.
• Unbalanced Diet - A balanced diet is essential to the proper functioning of the body. Consumption of red meat and dairy in higher amounts can lead to higher BMI and chances of developing fibroids.
• Family History - Women with a family history of uterine fibroids are at a higher risk of the condition, making it necessary to undergo regular examinations.
• Alcohol Consumption - Regulated use of alcohol considerably reduces the negative effects. However, consuming alcohol in large amounts can lead to changes in the hormonal levels increasing the chances of developing uterine fibroids.

If you have any of the above conditions, it is recommended to undergo frequent pelvic examinations under the care and supervision of your gynecologist to avoid further complications.

Research on the causes of uterine fibroids is ongoing and incomplete, which is why it is not clear how one can prevent the condition. Since a very small amount of these cases develop into cancerous lumps, you should not worry about uterine fibroids.

However, leading a healthy life, implementing a balanced diet, and regulating alcohol consumption can help improve your well-being in general. You could also consult your doctor about the different hormonal contraceptive pills and their effect on the development of uterine fibroids.

If you experience any of the above symptoms, your doctor will perform a routine pelvic examination. Since symptoms are not visible in most cases, uterine fibroids are discovered during regular health checkups.

Your gynecologist might feel the lump or abnormal growth in your uterus, following which they might order further examinations. These tests are necessary to diagnose uterine fibroids and check their size.

Uterine Fibroids are often discovered accidentally, but irregularities in the uterus found during a regular pelvic examination are often how your doctor might suspect you have it.

Other than that, a description of discomfort due to heavy bleeding and other side-effects like abdominal pain might alert them. Your gynecologist will advise you to get a pelvic examination, following which some other tests might be needed to diagnose uterine fibroids.

Uterine Fibroids are not dangerous but can cause a lot of discomfort and lead to further complications. Other than disruption in the menstrual cycle and heavy bleeding, uterine fibroids can cause anemia, heavy blood loss, and fatigue that hampers one’s daily lifestyle. In certain cases, one might need a blood transfusion due to the increased blood loss during menstrual periods.

Most people want to know about the effects and issues of uterine fibroids and pregnancy. Well, uterine fibroids do not cause any pregnancy complications like miscarriage or infertility. However, people with submucosal fibroids might face difficulty in conceiving and experience pregnancy loss. If you have uterine fibroids and are considering getting pregnant, consult your gynecologist to monitor your condition and support you through the process.

Fibroids are not medically harmful, but in certain cases, they might become cancerous. Statistics suggest that less than 1 in 1000 women with uterine fibroids will develop cancerous fibroids (lelomyosarcoma).

As discussed, there is no scientific research on how to prevent uterine fibroids. The only way to diagnose is by expert gynecological consultation and through medical tests. However, you can adopt certain home remedies to alleviate the signs and symptoms. These include:-

• Weight Loss - Research suggests that women with a higher BMI are at a higher risk of uterine fibroids. Fat cells boost the body’s estrogen levels, which is why you should maintain a normal BMI.
• Nutrition - Other than including an exercise regimen, a balanced diet is to reduce the risk of developing uterine fibroids.

• Blood Pressure and Sugar - Research shows that people with high blood pressure levels are at a higher risk of developing uterine fibroids. Some tips to control your blood pressure levels include:

  • Limiting the consumption of food with high salt or sugar content
  • Regular exercise plans
  • Recording blood pressure regularly for a comprehensive chart
• Herbal Remedies - Traditional Ayurvedic medicines can help manage uterine fibroids and relieve pain. However, there is no concrete research proving their effectiveness.
• Warm Compress or Baths - One might experience heavy bleeding and abdominal cramps, which can be relieved through warm compresses or baths.

In any condition, a nutritious diet and a healthy routine are crucial to managing the symptoms. Some common foods that you should include in your diet for uterine fibroids are:-

• Unprocessed foods are rich in fiber and can help balance hormone levels, prevent weight gain, and curb appetite.
• Vegetables and Fruit (both raw and cooked)
• Whole Grains and Lentils
• Herbs (both fresh and dried)
• Dry Fruits like almonds

Research suggests that high consumption of red meat and processed foods can lead to a higher risk of developing uterine fibroids. A sugar-rich diet and high amounts of alcohol consumption can worsen your condition. Steer clear of foods that raise your blood sugar and pressure levels. Some foods that you should avoid include:-

• Foods like pasta, white rice, and flour with refined carbohydrates
• Drinks with a high sugar content like soda
• Baked goods like cakes and cookies
• Foods with high salt content like potato chips and crackers

If you experience heavy menstrual bleeding, abdominal pain, cramps, pelvic pressure, or pregnancy issues, you should consult your doctor about your risk of uterine fibroids. Some other cases when you should seek expert advice include:-

• Pelvic pain and discomfort
• Prolonged periods and heavy bleeding
• Difficulty in urination
• Loss of blood and reduction in red blood cell count

Gynecologists, obstetricians, and general physicians will be on your team to diagnose and treat uterine fibroids.

The treatment for uterine fibroids depends on their size, shape, number, and location. In cases where the person doesn’t face any symptoms or experience discomfort, treatment is not needed. The wait and watch approach is adopted in these cases and action is taken only if the condition worsens.

Your doctor will instruct you to undergo regular pelvic examinations and scans to monitor the situation. In case you are facing complications like heavy blood loss or anemia, your doctor will outline a detailed treatment plan.

The different surgical procedures for uterine fibroids include:-

• Myomectomy - A surgical procedure that helps remove uterine fibroids without causing any uterine damage. It is further classified into the following types:

  • Hysteroscopy - A scope is inserted without any incisions to remove the fibroids.
  • Laparoscopy - A scope is inserted through some small incisions on the abdomen.
  • Laparotomy - An abdominal incision is made and the fibroids are removed in one large cut.
• Hysterectomy - The removal of the uterus to permanently cure uterine fibroids.
• Uterine Fibroid Embolization - A catheter is used to restrict blood flow and shrink the fibroids.
• Radiofrequency Ablation - A safe and effective process to treat uterine fibroids and their symptoms.

You can visit Pristyn Care to find out the best doctors for your health issue, and after analysing every aspect, take the best route of treatment.

Generally, Uterine Fibroids do not have any risks or lead to further complications. Hence, most women do not undergo surgery for uterine fibroids. In certain cases, menopause or the stabilization of the hormone levels causes the elimination of uterine fibroids.

The cost of uterine fibroid treatment options depends on several factors like the approach used and the infrastructure of the hospital. However, the average cost of uterine fibroids treatment options in India is INR 40,571. The minimum and maximum costs are INR 19,000 and INR 88,000, respectively.

The only permanent treatment method for uterine fibroids is hysterectomy where the uterus is removed.

Uterine fibroid surgery is not the go-to treatment method recommended by doctors. The procedure is safe for women of all ages and cases. However, every case is unique and your doctor is the only one who can decide whether you are eligible for surgery for uterine fibroids.

As discussed, every case is unique and your doctor will check the size, shape, and location of the uterine fibroids to determine whether you need treatment.

Just like any other surgery, the post-treatment guidelines for uterine fibroids surgery include:-

• Take ample rest and avoid lifting
• Stay hydrated and follow a balanced diet
• Avoid blood-thinning drugs
• Drink natural juices instead of soda
• Replace high-processed foods with foods rich in fiber

Uterine Fibroids are generally harmless, but monitoring their growth and condition is important. This will allow your doctor to understand what treatment plan to follow and whether your fibroid can become malignant or not. If left untreated, the uterine fibroids might grow and lead to complications like anemia, severe menstrual cramps, and heavy bleeding.

Just like any surgical treatment or medication, the treatment for uterine fibrosis might carry some rare risks. Consult your doctor if you experience any side effects or notice anything out of the ordinary.

Regulating your hormones through medications or due to menopause can lead to shrinkage of uterine fibroids. It can also help remove any symptoms and discomfort. Generally, small fibroids do not show any symptoms and hence, do not need any treatment.