A benign tumor that develops on the lining of the uterus, uterine fibroids affect over 30% of women aged 35-55. Although they are often discovered by chance during a gynaecological examination, certain signs can nevertheless alert you.
Uterine fibroids are formed by the abnormal proliferation of muscle cells in the lining of the uterus. It is a very common non-cancerous tumour, affecting between 20% and 40% of women over the age of 35.
Fibroids vary in size, from a few millimetres to tens of centimetres (some can even be as big as a melon).
While we don’t really know what factors cause these tumors, it would seem that high levels of estrogen and even progesterone promote their growth.
This is why they can develop during pregnancy, when levels of these hormones rise, and are very rare during the menopause. The risk of developing these benign lesions also increases withbody mass index (BMI).
What are the symptoms of uterine fibroids?
While this disease is often asymptomatic, which can delay diagnosis and increase the risk of complications such as infertility, it can sometimes be accompanied by undesirable side effects.
These are signs that should alert you and convince you to consult a gynaecologist or doctor as soon as possible.
Heavy, irregular bleeding
A fibroid inside theuterus can cause heavy, prolonged bleeding (accompanied by clots) during menstruation (known as menorrhagia) and between periods (known as metrorrhagia, as opposed to spotting).
This bleeding can lead to iron deficiency and more or less severe anemia.
Abdominal pain
Pain, such as a feeling of a heavy mass, may be felt in the lower abdomen, around the uterus and pelvis. The abdomen may also feel larger. This is due to the abnormal size of the uterus.
Intestinal and bladder problems
Constipation, hemorrhoids, pollakiuria (frequent urination) and recurrent cystitis (urinary tract infection) are also symptoms of uterine fibroids.
Pain during intercourse
Sexual intercourse may also be uncomfortable and painful.
Complications during pregnancy
A fibroid can complicate pregnancy, leading to spontaneous miscarriage or premature delivery.