5 possible cause of uterine fibroids

A uterine fibroid is the most common benign (non-cancerous) tumor in women's uterus. It is also known as uterine myoma. Fibroids are tumors of the smooth muscle seen in the uterine wall. They can grow inside the uterine wall or attach to it. They can develop as a single tumor or in groups.

Genetic alterations. Many fibroids have gene alterations that vary from those seen in normal uterine muscle cells.

Hormones. Estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that drive the formation of the uterine lining in preparation for pregnancy throughout each menstrual cycle, seem to encourage the growth of fibroids.

Fibroids have more estrogen and progesterone receptors than uterine muscle cells in general. Because of a decrease in hormone production, fibroids tend to diminish after menopause.

Other growth factors. Substances that aid in tissue maintenance, such as insulin-like growth factor, may influence fibroid development.

Extracellular matrix (ECM).  ECM is the substance that holds cells together, similar to mortar between bricks. Fibroids have an increase in ECM, which causes them to become fibrous. ECM also stores growth factors and induces biologic changes in cells.

Other factors. Starting your period at a young age, being obese, not getting enough vitamin D, eating a diet heavy in red meat and low in green vegetables, fruit, and dairy, and consuming alcohol, particularly beer, all tend to raise your chance of developing fibroids.

How are uterine fibroids diagnosed?

Fibroids are most often identified during a physical examination. During an abdominal or pelvic exam, your doctor may feel a solid, irregular (often painless) lump.

Scans may be used to confirm a diagnosis. These are the two primary options:

Ultrasound: The most commonly used scan for fibroids is ultrasound. It diagnoses fibroids using sound waves at frequencies (pitch) significantly higher than the human ear can hear. To scan the uterus and ovaries, a doctor or technician puts an ultrasound probe on the abdomen or into the vagina. It is fast, easy to use, and usually accurate. However, successful outcomes are dependent on the doctor's or technician's expertise and ability. For some disorders, such as adenomyosis, alternative testing, such as MRI, may be more effective.

MRI: This imaging technique creates pictures using magnets and radio waves. It provides your physician the size, quantity, and location of the fibroids. Doctors can also tell the difference between fibroids and adenomyosis, which is commonly misdiagnosed. MRI is used to confirm a diagnosis and to help us decide which therapies are best for you. In addition, MRI may be a superior alternative for similar disorders such as adenomyosis.

Hysterosalpingogram (HSG):   It examines the uterus (uterine cavity) and fallopian tubes. After inserting a catheter (small tube) into the uterus, the doctor gently injects a specific contrast dye and takes X-rays.

Hysterosonogram: A hysterosonogram allows doctors to view within the uterus. They inject water into the uterus after inserting a small catheter and collecting a series of ultrasound images. The test may detect uterine polyps or intracavitary fibroids, which can cause severe bleeding.

Laparoscopy: A doctor performs laparoscopy by making small incisions in or around the abdomen. A long, thin tool (laparoscope) is then inserted into the belly and pelvis by the doctor. The laparoscope is equipped with a strong light and a camera. It enables your doctor to examine the uterus and associated components. The image may help your doctor identify whether you have a disease that causes pelvic discomfort, such as endometriosis.

Hysteroscopy: A doctor uses a long, thin tool with a camera and light to examine possible problems within the uterus. The tool is passed via the vagina and cervix into the uterus by the doctor. No incision is required. Using this method, the doctor may examine for fibroids or endometrial polyps inside the uterine cavity. During this treatment, your doctor may also remove certain forms of fibroids.

What are the complications of uterine fibroids?

It is unusual for fibroids to have severe health consequences. Women who have fibroids may also have severe bleeding, which can result in severe anemia, or a shortage of red blood cells.

Large fibroids may sometimes push on the bladder and the tube (ureter) that transports urine from the kidney to the bladder. This pressure may harm the kidneys.  Infertility and frequent pregnancy loss are two more complications that can occur if a patient is diagnosed with uterine fibroids.

Book your appointment today with Dr. Kausha Shah, best gynaecologist in Dahisar for advanced fibroid treatment in dahisar.