Fibroids in V.

I.   So, what are fibroids? 

Fibroids, also called myomas, are growths of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue that develop on/in the uterus. These tumors are very common. If a woman is not having any adverse symptoms, then she can be followed without any treatment or intervention. Typically, a pelvic exam, sometimes along with a pelvic ultrasound, can determine size and location of the fibroid and any change that has occurred over time.

II.  What do fibroids do to a woman’s body?

Uterine fibroids are typically benign tumors or growths. When they are problematic the most common issues are heavy and prolonged bleeding, pain and cramps, pressure in the rectum or bladder and pain with intercourse. Symptoms vary based on the size and location of the fibroid. For example, fibroids in the cavity are more likely to cause heavier bleeding, and those on the exterior are more likely to cause pain and pressure.

III. Do fibroids need to be removed or treated?

If a woman has fibroids and she is not experiencing any symptoms (pain, pressure, heavy bleeding, fertility concerns) and they are not rapidly growing, then treatment is unlikely to be necessary. If the fibroids are causing problems, then treatment may be advised.

Here are V. (five) treatments for fibroids.

i. Medication including birth control pills that can reduce the heavy flow, and GnRH agonists + GnRH antagonists to block the ovaries from making estrogen and progesterone, hormones that can trigger fibroids to enlarge.

ii. Hysteroscopic resection is a vaginal procedure used to destruct or remove fibroids inside of the uterus using an instrument called a hysteroscope and does not require an incision.

iii. Laparoscopic procedure, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows a surgeon to access the inside of the abdomen and pelvis with several small incisions and remove or destroy small fibroids that are on the outside of uterus.

iv. Laparotomy is an operation that requires a larger surgical incision to fully remove either the fibroid(s) called a myomectomy or the uterus called a hysterectomy.

v. Uterine fibroid embolization and raido-frequency ablation are non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment options used to shrink fibroids. Radio-frequency ablation uses heat to target fibroids one by one, reducing their size and the embolization blocks the blood flow to the uterus and fibroid.

IV.  What happens if fibroids are left untreated?

Fibroids are most often benign, very rarely will they become atypical and cancerous. If bleeding is heavy, it can cause anemia and therefore iron therapy may be needed. In certain instances, fibroids can cause fertility issues. Pain and pressure symptoms can escalate to a point of discomfort.

V.  What if I have a fibroid and I am pregnant?

Most often fibroids won’t have a significant impact on a pregnancy, but that is a factor of size and location. Fibroids are hormone dependent growths and so the hormones of pregnancy can trigger them to enlarge. Risks to the mother can include pain, a dysfunctional labor and therefore a higher risk of C-section, and an increase risk of bleeding. Risks to the baby can include growth restriction and a malposition which could require a C-section.

Verbena does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and is not a medical provider. Discuss any/all fibroid treatment options with your personal doctor.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.