Anterior uterine body. Uterine Fibroids: Comprehensive Guide to Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
What are uterine fibroids. How common are uterine fibroids. What symptoms do uterine fibroids cause. How are uterine fibroids diagnosed. What treatment options are available for uterine fibroids. Can uterine fibroids affect pregnancy. How can uterine fibroids be prevented.
Understanding Uterine Fibroids: An Overview
Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are noncancerous tumors that develop in the wall of the uterus. These benign growths are surprisingly common, affecting up to 80% of individuals born with a uterus. While often harmless, fibroids can cause a range of symptoms and complications, impacting quality of life and reproductive health for many women.
Fibroids can vary greatly in size, from tiny seedlings invisible to the naked eye to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. They can develop as a single tumor or in clusters, and their growth patterns and locations within the uterus can influence the symptoms they produce.
Prevalence and Risk Factors
The prevalence of uterine fibroids is remarkably high, particularly among certain demographics. Studies have shown that by age 50, between 70% to 80% of women will have developed fibroids. However, the risk is not evenly distributed across all populations.
- Age: Fibroids are most common in women of reproductive age, typically between 30 and 50 years old.
- Race: African American women are at a higher risk of developing fibroids compared to women of other racial backgrounds.
- Family history: Having a close relative with fibroids increases the likelihood of developing them.
- Hormonal factors: Elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone can contribute to fibroid growth.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese is associated with an increased risk of fibroids.
Are certain lifestyle factors linked to fibroid development? Research suggests that diet, exercise, and stress levels may play a role in fibroid risk, though more studies are needed to fully understand these connections.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
The symptoms of uterine fibroids can vary widely, with some women experiencing no noticeable effects while others face significant discomfort and health complications. Dr. Michelle Louie, a Mayo Clinic gynecologic surgeon and fibroid specialist, categorizes fibroid symptoms into two main groups:
Bleeding Symptoms
Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods are one of the most common symptoms associated with uterine fibroids. Women may experience:
- Menstrual bleeding lasting more than 7 days
- Passing large blood clots
- Frequent need to change sanitary protection
- Anemia due to excessive blood loss
Bulk Symptoms
As fibroids grow larger, they can exert pressure on surrounding organs and tissues, leading to what Dr. Louie refers to as “bulk symptoms.” These may include:
- Pelvic pressure or heaviness
- Abdominal swelling or enlargement
- Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
- Constipation or difficulty with bowel movements
- Lower back pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse
Do all women with fibroids experience symptoms? No, many women with uterine fibroids are asymptomatic, especially if the fibroids are small or positioned in certain areas of the uterus. However, for those who do experience symptoms, the impact on daily life can be significant.
Diagnosing Uterine Fibroids: Methods and Considerations
Accurate diagnosis of uterine fibroids is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan. Healthcare providers use a combination of physical examination and imaging techniques to identify and characterize fibroids.
Physical Examination
During a routine pelvic exam, a healthcare provider may be able to feel irregularities in the shape of the uterus, suggesting the presence of fibroids. However, smaller fibroids or those located within the uterine wall may not be detectable through physical examination alone.
Imaging Techniques
Several imaging methods can be used to confirm the presence of fibroids and gather important information about their size, location, and number:
- Ultrasound: This is often the first imaging test used, as it’s non-invasive and can provide clear images of the uterus and any fibroids present.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI can offer more detailed images and is particularly useful for planning surgical interventions.
- Hysterosalpingography: This X-ray test can help identify fibroids that may be affecting the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes.
- Sonohysterography: This involves injecting saline into the uterus to enhance ultrasound imaging of the uterine cavity.
Is a biopsy necessary to diagnose fibroids? In most cases, imaging studies are sufficient to diagnose fibroids. However, if there are concerns about potential malignancy or other uterine conditions, a biopsy may be recommended.
Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids: From Medication to Surgery
The treatment approach for uterine fibroids depends on several factors, including the size and location of the fibroids, the severity of symptoms, and the patient’s reproductive goals. Dr. Louie emphasizes the importance of understanding all available options to determine the best course of action.
Non-Surgical Approaches
For women with mild symptoms or small fibroids, non-surgical options may be appropriate:
- Watchful waiting: If fibroids are not causing significant symptoms, regular monitoring may be recommended.
- Medications: Hormonal treatments, such as birth control pills or gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, can help manage symptoms and potentially shrink fibroids.
- Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and managing stress may help alleviate symptoms.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
Advancements in medical technology have led to the development of less invasive treatment options:
- Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): This procedure blocks blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink.
- Radiofrequency Ablation: Uses heat to destroy fibroid tissue.
- MRI-guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery: Non-invasive technique that uses sound waves to destroy fibroid tissue.
Surgical Interventions
For larger fibroids or more severe symptoms, surgical options may be considered:
- Myomectomy: Surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus, suitable for women who wish to maintain fertility.
- Hysterectomy: Complete removal of the uterus, offering a permanent solution but ending fertility.
How do you choose the right treatment option? The decision should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, considering factors such as symptom severity, desire for future pregnancy, and personal preferences.
The Impact of Uterine Fibroids on Fertility and Pregnancy
Uterine fibroids can have significant implications for fertility and pregnancy, though the extent of their impact varies depending on their size, location, and number. Understanding these potential effects is crucial for women planning to conceive or those already pregnant.
Fertility Concerns
Fibroids can affect fertility in several ways:
- Altered uterine shape: Large fibroids can distort the uterine cavity, potentially interfering with embryo implantation.
- Fallopian tube obstruction: Fibroids near the fallopian tubes may block the passage of eggs or sperm.
- Changes in uterine blood flow: Fibroids may affect the blood supply to the uterine lining, impacting implantation.
- Hormonal imbalances: Some fibroids may contribute to hormonal changes that affect fertility.
Pregnancy Complications
For women who do become pregnant, fibroids can pose additional risks:
- Miscarriage: Some studies suggest an increased risk of miscarriage in women with fibroids.
- Preterm labor: Large fibroids may increase the risk of premature birth.
- Placental abruption: Fibroids can increase the risk of the placenta detaching from the uterine wall.
- Cesarean delivery: The presence of fibroids may necessitate a C-section in some cases.
Can fibroids be treated during pregnancy? While some treatments are not recommended during pregnancy, certain procedures may be performed if absolutely necessary. Management typically focuses on symptom relief and close monitoring.
Prevention and Management of Uterine Fibroids
While it may not be possible to prevent uterine fibroids entirely, certain lifestyle choices and preventive measures may help reduce the risk of developing fibroids or manage existing ones more effectively.
Lifestyle Factors
Adopting a healthy lifestyle can potentially lower the risk of fibroid development:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is linked to an increased risk of fibroids.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity may help balance hormone levels and reduce fibroid risk.
- Eat a balanced diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may be protective against fibroids.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress may contribute to hormonal imbalances that promote fibroid growth.
Preventive Measures
Some studies suggest that certain factors may help prevent or slow fibroid growth:
- Use of oral contraceptives: Some forms of birth control may reduce the risk of fibroid development.
- Vitamin D: Adequate vitamin D levels have been associated with a lower risk of fibroids.
- Green tea extract: Some research suggests that green tea may have a protective effect against fibroids.
Is it possible to shrink fibroids naturally? While some natural remedies are touted for fibroid management, scientific evidence is limited. Always consult with a healthcare provider before trying any alternative treatments.
Living with Uterine Fibroids: Coping Strategies and Support
Dealing with uterine fibroids can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. Developing effective coping strategies and seeking support can significantly improve quality of life for women living with this condition.
Managing Symptoms
Practical strategies for managing fibroid symptoms include:
- Using heating pads or warm baths to alleviate pelvic pain
- Practicing relaxation techniques to manage stress and discomfort
- Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing during periods of abdominal swelling
- Planning activities around menstrual cycles to accommodate heavy bleeding days
Emotional Support
The emotional impact of living with fibroids should not be underestimated. Seeking support can be beneficial:
- Joining support groups or online communities for women with fibroids
- Discussing concerns openly with partners, family, and friends
- Considering counseling or therapy to address any anxiety or depression related to the condition
How can partners and family members support women with fibroids? Understanding the condition, offering emotional support, and assisting with practical tasks during difficult periods can make a significant difference.
In conclusion, uterine fibroids are a common condition that can significantly impact women’s health and quality of life. While they pose challenges, a range of treatment options and management strategies are available. By working closely with healthcare providers and utilizing available resources, women with fibroids can effectively manage their symptoms and maintain their overall well-being. Remember, as Dr. Louie emphasizes, “Help is available, and we can help them achieve a higher quality of life. They don’t have to suffer from fibroid-related symptoms.”
Mayo Clinic Minute: Know your uterine fibroid treatment options
By
Deb Balzer
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous tumors that grow in the wall of the uterus. Up to 80% of those who are born with a uterus may experience these benign masses of muscle in their uterus.
While fibroids are usually benign, they can cause reproductive issues, such as infertility or pregnancy loss, difficult menstrual periods, and pain.
Dr. Michelle Louie, a Mayo Clinic gynecologic surgeon and fibroid specialist, says it is important to know about the different approaches to treating fibroids so you can be sure you are given all the options to figure out the best one for you.
Watch: The Mayo Clinic Minute
Journalists: Broadcast-quality video (1:33) is in the downloads at the end of this post. Please “Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network.” Read the script.
They are not uncommon and can be harmless, but for some, uterine fibroids can affect quality of life.
“Fibroids can cause predominantly two groups of symptoms. One is bleeding symptoms, where the person experiences very heavy or prolonged periods,” says Dr. Louie.
“The second category of symptoms most commonly experienced by people with fibroids are called ‘bulk symptoms,’ Dr. Louie says. “That’s just when fibroids get so large that they begin to exert a lot of pressure or heaviness in the pelvis, or they can press on surrounding organs like the bladder or the colon.”
Treatment can depend on the size and the location of the fibroids. Nonsurgical options may include monitoring the fibroids if they don’t cause bothersome symptoms, or medications to shrink the fibroids.
“The most traditional treatment option is a surgery called a myomectomy. It’s done by your gynecologist or a fibroid specialist. It’s a procedure where we cut into the uterus to remove the fibroid and then sew the uterus back up so that it’s preserved for future pregnancy,” she says.
Newer minimally invasive options include radio frequency fibroid ablation and uterine fibroid embolization that allow most patients to go home the same day with shorter recovery times.A variety of surgical options are available, but the No. 1 message Dr. Louie wants patients to know is: “Help is available, and we can help them achieve a higher quality of life. They don’t have to suffer from fibroid-related symptoms.”
For the safety of its patients, staff and visitors, Mayo Clinic has strict masking policies in place. Anyone shown without a mask was either recorded prior to COVID-19 or recorded in a nonpatient care area where social distancing and other safety protocols were followed.
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Radiological appearances of uterine fibroids
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Omission and prolapse of the uterus: symptoms, causes, diagnosis.
Uterine prolapse
- Description
- Organization of treatment
- Cost of treatment
Description
In some cases, the uterus is practically in its place, and there is a prolapse of the cervix associated with its hypertrophy and elongation. It so happened historically that any prolapse of the patient (sometimes doctors) is called prolapse of the uterus, although, as mentioned above, this is not entirely true.
Symptoms
Signs of uterine prolapse consist of dysfunction of those organs that are involved in the pathological process. By itself, the displacement of the uterus causes:
- foreign body sensation in the vagina
- sexual discomfort
- Pulling sensations in the lower abdomen.
It is important to remember the fact that the uterus lies at the top of the vagina, so its prolapse is inevitably accompanied by prolapse of the anterior / posterior wall of the vagina, and hence the bladder / rectum.
That is why patients with “uterine prolapse” complain:
- for urination disorders (difficulty urinating, feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder, frequent urination, loss of urine during exertion or against the background of sharp urges, etc.)
- for problems with defecation (difficult defecation, defecation in portions, the need to adjust the prolapse to completely empty the bowel, etc.).
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Reasons
The causes of uterine prolapse can be described according to the life path model. At the beginning, a person has one or another predisposition to the development of this pathology. Further, various aggressive factors begin to act on it, which lead to the onset of the disease. At the first stage, the body copes with the damage that has occurred, however, age and the accumulation of breakdowns lead to its manifestation and, in fact, to the complaints that were described above. All pathological factors can be divided into the following:
- Heredity. It has been proven that if the next of kin has the disease, the likelihood of occurrence increases several times. Most often, there is a congenital weakness of the connective tissue, which also affects other body systems, manifesting itself in diseases of the musculoskeletal system, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids. However, heredity is still a predisposition not a sentence, but what makes it a reality are the risk factors, which will be discussed below.
- Childbirth and pregnancy. Perhaps the main factor that leads to changes in the qualitative composition of the supporting apparatus of the pelvic floor and its partial damage. Unfortunately, with severe tissue failure, complete prolapse of the uterus can develop immediately after childbirth. On the other hand, in most parturient women, the prolapse completely regresses within the first year.
- Increased loads. And this is not only hard physical labor, but also chronic constipation, lung diseases, accompanied by a constant and severe cough, obesity. All these factors lead to damage to the ligamentous apparatus of the pelvic organs and their prolapse.
- Age. This factor has a complex effect on all supported structures of the pelvic floor. Firstly, with age, the hormonal background changes, and with it the quality of the connective tissue (it becomes looser and weaker). In some patients, hormonal changes lead to deformation and changes in the cervix, according to the type of its elongation and hypertrophy. Secondly, muscle tone decreases, including that of the pelvic floor. In this regard, once received, injuries of the ligamentous apparatus are deprived of support and become obvious
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of uterine prolapse does not raise questions from specialists. To do this, it is necessary to conduct a standard gynecological examination, on the basis of which the stage of prolapse is set and the vaginal section involved in the pathological process is determined.
Most often, there is damage to all three sections of the pelvic floor: anterior, posterior and apical.
In total, four degrees of uterine prolapse are distinguished: the first (initial), when the patient is practically not bothered by anything, the fourth degree is accompanied by a complete prolapse of the pelvic organs.
The study may be supplemented by a digital rectal examination to rule out rectal prolapse.
As instrumental methods, ultrasound of the pelvic organs is performed, and sometimes MRI.
Most of the patients receive assistance free of charge (without hidden surcharges for “nets”, etc.) within the framework of compulsory health insurance ( under the CHI policy ). | Application for CHI treatment |
Treatment
Treatment of uterine prolapse includes surgical and conservative methods of treatment.
Conservative methods include:
- Kegel exercises during uterine prolapse are aimed at increasing the tone of the pelvic floor muscles. Due to this, a base appears in the damaged ligamentous apparatus, which prevents the pelvic organs from dropping excessively. Unfortunately, it is quite difficult to perform these exercises correctly, since it is difficult to train what you cannot see and do not control. To solve this issue, biofeedback devices (BFB-therapy) were developed, which increases the effectiveness of exercises several times. This method will be useful for young patients and women after childbirth.
- Pessaries and bandages are designed to create an obstacle in the way of descending organs. When the uterus is lowered, the pessary is placed in the vagina and serves as a kind of spacer. Unfortunately, the presence of a foreign body inside often causes discomfort, chronic inflammation and, most importantly, requires regular visits to the gynecologist to change it. In the case of bandages, it is just tight underwear that does not allow prolapse to come out of the vagina. Sometimes it is combined with a pessary and works like a “cork”. These methods can be used if the operation cannot be done for some reason. This can be compared with a crutch for a limb injury.
Operation
The main method of treatment is still surgical, since the supporting apparatus of the pelvis is not restored. Unfortunately, the most popular method – removal of the uterus often does not help, since not only the uterus descends, but the pelvic organs (bladder, rectum).
For this reason, this approach leads in 30-50% of cases to the development of vaginal stump prolapse.
Another problem of hysterectomy is post-hysterectomy syndrome, which leads to impaired urination, defecation and decreased sexual function, including due to postoperative shortening of the vagina. The most optimal and proven are reconstructive surgeries performed through the vagina. On the one hand, they allow to achieve a good anatomical result, on the other hand, a good cosmetic effect. One of the most modern techniques is hybrid operations, which allow individualizing the operation for each specific patient, while making the most of his own tissues, and, if necessary, supplementing them with a prosthesis only in the busiest places.
Organization of treatment
Hospitalization for the purpose of surgical treatment is carried out according to the principle “one window” . It is enough for the patient (or the person representing him) to write a letter with the wording of his question. At any time (both before hospitalization and after), you can ask questions of interest to the staff of the department.
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Citizens of the Russian Federation can receive free treatment under the CHI program for most diseases
No matter where you live
80% of patients come to us from the regions of the Russian Federation and countries of near and far abroad
Many years of experience
Every year more than 3000 operations of any complexity are performed in the Department of Urology
At any time (both before hospitalization and after), you can ask questions of interest to the staff of the department.
1. Online consultation with a specialist
The organization of hospitalization for the purpose of surgical treatment is carried out according to the principle of “one window”. To do this, it is enough for the patient (or the person representing him) to write a letter with the wording of his question.
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2. Appointment of the date of hospitalization
After the consultation, our administrator will contact you within a few days to make an appointment for hospitalization.
3. Examination before hospitalization
Preoperative examination should be carried out only after the approval of the date of hospitalization. You can get most of the examinations at the antenatal clinic or polyclinic at the place of residence free of charge, under the CHI policy.
If in your locality there is no opportunity to be adequately examined – do it in the regional center, if everything cannot be done within the framework of compulsory medical insurance (under the policy) – do it in paid laboratories (clinics).
NOT LATE THAN 14 DAYS before hospitalization, you must send SCANS (not photographs) of the test results to the email address: [email protected]
4. Hospitalization in department
10 days before surgery withdrawal of drugs that affect blood coagulation (aspirin, Plavix, warfarin, etc.) is REQUIRED unless otherwise agreed with the attending physicians.
It is highly desirable to arrive for surgical treatment with pre-selected and purchased surgical compression stockings (white stockings, antithrombotic 2nd class of compression or as recommended by the vascular surgeon).
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: Species of uterus In cows, the uterine horns are fused for a considerable distance, narrow, go forward and down, slightly deviating to the lateral side. They are spirally curved downwards and are shaped like ram’s horns. The body of the uterus outside is relatively long (up to 10-15 cm), but inside, almost throughout its entire length (up to 10 cm), it is divided by a longitudinal septum, or sail of the uterus (velum uteri), in half, into two longitudinal halves, and therefore the undivided caudal part the body of the uterus does not exceed 5-6 cm in cows. The cervix is long (7-10 cm), thick-walled. It is small with its back, or vaginal part (2-2.5 cm), which protrudes into the vaginal cavity in a bush-like manner. The vaginal part of the cervix is not located in the center of the bottom of the vagina, but closer to its lower wall. The body and horns of the uterus are located in the abdominal cavity and only the neck is on the pubic fusion. The uterus of repeatedly calving cows lies more in the right half of the abdomen. In cows and other ruminants, on the mucous membrane along the horns and body of the uterus, there are four rows of elevations called uterine warts (carunculae uteri). There are no uterine glands on them, but there are recesses – crypts (cryptae uterinae), into which the villi of the fetal membranes are introduced. Caruncles (14-16 in each of the four rows) grow strongly during pregnancy. However, after childbirth, caruncles undergo reverse development. The mucous membrane of the cervix forms several rows of thick transverse folds (plicae circulares). Their height increases in the caudal direction. Secondary thin longitudinal folds are noticeable on the transverse folds. The external uterine opening in ruminants is surrounded by circular folds of the mucous membrane – this is the vaginal portion of the cervix (Fig. 41).
In sheep and goats, the surface of the caruncles is depressed in the center in the form of a dimple. In goats, the glands are also located in the mucous membrane of the cervix (gll. cervicales). In pigs, due to multiple pregnancies, the uterine horns are very long (up to 200 cm) and narrow, forming numerous loops resembling those of the small intestine (Fig. 42).
The uterus is located almost entirely in the abdominal cavity. The body of the uterus (up to 5 cm long) is about three times shorter than the cervix. The cervix (up to 15-18 cm long) is the most narrowed part of the uterus and imperceptibly passes into the vagina. On the mucous membrane of the cervix there are numerous (14-20) rough, bumpy folds, or lateral protrusions, or cushions of the cervix (pulvini cervicalis), which, penetrating into the gaps of each other, make the cervical canal wavy, tortuous and tightly closed. The boundaries between the neck with the body and the vagina are very difficult to establish; they can be conditionally considered by the disappearance of clearly defined transverse folds. In mares, the uterine horns are wide, directed forward, bent dorsally and terminate in blunt, rounded ends, which enter the oviducts. Each horn is curved downwards, has the shape of a gentle arc with a convex ventrocranial margin and a concave opposite dorsocaudal margin. The length of the horns is slightly longer than the body of the uterus (18-25 cm). The body of the uterus is slightly shorter than its horns (up to 20 cm). Its anterior section is called the bottom of the uterus (fundus uteri). In mares, the uterus has a thick-walled, cylindrical neck, protruding into the vaginal cavity by one third of its length and forming a vaginal portion. The outer uterine opening is surrounded by longitudinal folds of the mucous membrane in a corolla-like fashion. The body of the uterus continues into the cervix gradually, but the internal uterine opening is clearly expressed, since thin longitudinal folds of the mucous membrane are well developed in the walls of the cervical canal (up to 6. 5 cm long). A significant part of the uterus of mares lies in the pelvic cavity and is fixed by a wide uterine ligament in the region of the lumbar muscles at the level from the 3rd-4th lumbar to the 4th sacral vertebrae. In females, the uterus lies almost entirely in the abdominal cavity and is distinguished by long, thin and straight horns that diverge from the body cranially in the form of a Roman numeral V. The body of the uterus is 4-6 times shorter than the horns, has thin walls and a median septum in the anterior region, dividing its cavity into two halves. The cervix is thick-walled, short, and with its ventral portion (in the form of a nipple) protrudes into the vagina. The mucous membrane of the neck has transverse and longitudinal folds, and also includes glands. At the ends of the horns, a thin round uterine ligament departs from the lower surface of the mesentery, following to the internal inguinal ring. In cats, the body of the uterus is about 4 cm long. |