Period SOS: Understanding and Managing Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are one of the most common reproductive health issues, affecting up to 70% of individuals with a uterus by age 50. These non-cancerous growths can vary in size and number, often causing heavy periods, pelvic pain, and other disruptive symptoms. In this post, we'll explore what fibroids are, common symptoms, and holistic ways to manage them and find relief.
What are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are benign tumors that grow in or on the uterus. They can range in size from tiny seedlings to large masses that can distort the uterus. While fibroids are not cancerous, they can cause significant discomfort and may affect fertility in some cases.
FACTS
Prevalence: Up to 70-80% of individuals with uteruses will develop uterine fibroids by the age of 50, with a higher prevalence in individuals of African descent.
Symptoms: About 25% of individuals with fibroids experience symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or reproductive issues, though many may be asymptomatic.
Hysterectomy: Uterine fibroids are the leading cause of hysterectomy in the United States, accounting for about 30% of all hysterectomies performed annually.
How Are Uterine Fibroids Diagnosed
1. Medical History and Symptoms
Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: One of the most common symptoms of fibroids is heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), which can lead to anemia.
Pelvic Pain or Pressure: Some individuals experience chronic pelvic pain or a sense of pressure in the lower abdomen. Fibroids can also cause pain during sexual intercourse.
Frequent Urination or Constipation: Large fibroids may press on the bladder or bowel, causing symptoms like frequent urination or constipation.
Reproductive Issues: Fibroids can sometimes cause infertility or complications during pregnancy, although not all fibroids affect fertility.
2. Physical Examination
Pelvic Exam: During a pelvic exam, a doctor may feel abnormalities in the shape or size of the uterus, suggesting the presence of fibroids. However, small fibroids may not be detectable this way.
3. Imaging Tests
Ultrasound: This is the most common imaging test used to diagnose fibroids. A transabdominal or transvaginal ultrasound uses sound waves to create an image of the uterus, allowing the doctor to see fibroids and determine their size and location.
Transvaginal Ultrasound: A more detailed view of the uterus and fibroids can be obtained through a transvaginal ultrasound, where a small probe is inserted into the vagina.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI provides more detailed images than ultrasound and can be helpful in assessing the number, size, and exact location of fibroids, especially when planning surgery or more complex treatments.
4. Other Diagnostic Tests
Hysterosonography (Sonohysterography): This test involves filling the uterus with saline (sterile water) during an ultrasound to get a clearer picture of the uterine cavity and fibroids, particularly those that affect the uterine lining (submucosal fibroids).
Hysteroscopy: A small, lighted telescope (hysteroscope) is inserted through the cervix to examine the inside of the uterus. This procedure can help identify fibroids that may be causing abnormal bleeding or reproductive issues.
Hysterosalpingography (HSG): An X-ray procedure in which a dye is injected into the uterus and fallopian tubes to highlight the uterine cavity on the X-ray image. This can help in evaluating fibroids and their impact on the shape of the uterine cavity, especially in relation to fertility issues.
5. Laboratory Tests
Blood Tests: Blood tests are often done to check for anemia, especially if heavy menstrual bleeding is a symptom. Hormone levels may also be checked to rule out other causes of abnormal bleeding.
6. Symptom Tracking and Exclusion of Other Conditions
Symptom Diary: Patients may be asked to track their symptoms, especially related to menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain, to assess whether the fibroids are causing significant issues.
Ruling Out Other Conditions: Since fibroids can cause symptoms similar to other conditions like adenomyosis, endometrial polyps, or cancer, doctors often perform tests to rule out these conditions before confirming a fibroid diagnosis.
Types of Uterine Fibroids
Fibroids are classified based on their location within the uterus:
Submucosal Fibroids: Located just beneath the lining of the uterus and can extend into the uterine cavity. These often cause heavy menstrual bleeding and may affect fertility.
Intramural Fibroids: Grow within the muscular wall of the uterus and are the most common type.
Subserosal Fibroids: Located on the outer surface of the uterus and can sometimes become large enough to press on other organs.
Pedunculated Fibroids: These fibroids are attached to the uterus by a thin stalk and may grow outside the uterus or inside the uterine cavity.
When to Seek Treatment
While many fibroids are asymptomatic and do not require treatment, those causing significant symptoms (like heavy bleeding, pain, or fertility issues) may require medical intervention. Treatment options include:
Medications: Hormonal therapies to manage symptoms.
Minimally Invasive Procedures: Uterine artery embolization, myomectomy, or MRI-guided focused ultrasound.
Surgery: In severe cases, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be considered.
Diagnosis of uterine fibroids often involves a step-by-step process, beginning with a clinical evaluation and progressing to imaging and other tests as needed to confirm the presence of fibroids and assess their impact.
Key Causes of Uterine Fibroids Include
Hormonal Imbalances: Estrogen and progesterone seem to promote the growth of fibroids. These hormones fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, which can trigger fibroid growth.
Genetics: A family history of fibroids may increase your risk.
Other Factors: Obesity, early onset of menstruation, and a diet high in red meat and low in green vegetables can also contribute to fibroid development.
Common Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: One of the most common symptoms is heavy or prolonged periods, which can lead to anemia.
Pelvic Pain or Pressure: Fibroids can cause a constant feeling of pressure in the pelvic area or sharp pain.
Frequent Urination: If fibroids press against the bladder, it may cause frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder.
Constipation: Similarly, fibroids pressing on the rectum can lead to constipation.
Pain During Intercourse: Some individuals may experience pain during sex, depending on the location of the fibroids.
Fertility Issues: In rare cases, fibroids can interfere with conception or pregnancy.
Holistic Actions to Manage Uterine Fibroids
Anti-Inflammatory Diet:
Focus on a plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Incorporate foods high in antioxidants, such as berries and leafy greens.
Reduce your intake of processed foods, red meat, and dairy, as these can promote inflammation and hormone imbalances.
Balance Your Hormones:
Eating a diet that supports hormone balance, including fiber-rich foods and healthy fats (e.g., avocados, nuts), can help reduce estrogen dominance, a common cause of fibroid growth.
Herbal Remedies:
Herbs like milk thistle, vitex, and dandelion root may help balance hormones and support liver detoxification. These can assist in reducing estrogen levels, which may shrink fibroids.
Regular Exercise:
Exercise can help maintain a healthy weight, balance hormones, and reduce fibroid growth. Aim for activities like walking, swimming, or yoga to promote circulation and reduce pelvic pressure.
Stress Management:
Chronic stress can increase cortisol levels, which may interfere with hormone regulation. Meditation, deep breathing, and journaling can be helpful practices to reduce stress and promote hormonal balance.
Take Control of Your Health
If you’re living with uterine fibroids, holistic approaches can make a big difference in reducing symptoms and improving your quality of life. If you need personalized support, reach out to me to learn more about how I can help you manage your symptoms naturally.
