Hey there, fabulous ladies! Today, let's have a heart-to-heart about a topic that many of us may encounter on our journey through womanhood: fibroids.
These benign tumors may sound intimidating, but knowledge is power, and I'm here to break it down for you - what are fibroids, the different types, and how doctors treat them.
I myself just had a surgery to remove a large (7cm) fibroid last year. And while the nausea coming out of the anesthesia is something I hope to never exerpience again, I will say so far...it was the best thing I've ever done. My pain has yet to return. I also have endo and PCOS (which we'll talk more about too) but so far, removing such a large growth has been beneficial for me!
So let's talk about what exactly these are...
What Are Fibroids?
Fibroids, also known as uterine fibroids or leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They're made up of muscle and connective tissue and can vary in size, from as small as a seed to as large as a grapefruit. While they're usually not cancerous, they can still cause a range of symptoms that might cramp your style.
Types of Fibroids
Now, let's dive into the different types of fibroids, because understanding them is key to managing your health:
Intramural Fibroids: These are the most common type and develop within the muscular wall of the uterus. They can cause an increase in the size of the uterus and lead to heavy or painful periods.
Subserosal Fibroids: These grow on the outside of the uterus and can press against neighboring organs, causing discomfort, pain, or urinary issues.
Submucosal Fibroids: These form just beneath the inner lining of the uterine cavity and are often responsible for heavy menstrual bleeding and fertility issues.
Pedunculated Fibroids: These fibroids are attached to the uterine wall by a stalk, and they can either grow inside the uterine cavity or on the outside. This is the one I had removed.
How Are Fibroids Treated by Doctors?
When it comes to managing fibroids, there are several treatment options available, depending on the size, location, and severity of your symptoms:
Watchful Waiting: If your fibroids are small and not causing any symptoms, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring to see if they grow or cause problems.
Medications: Hormonal medications, like birth control pills or GnRH agonists, can help manage symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pain.
Minimally Invasive Procedures: Procedures like uterine artery embolization (UAE), myomectomy, or radiofrequency ablation can be performed to remove or shrink fibroids while preserving the uterus.
Hysterectomy: In severe cases or if you're done with childbearing, a hysterectomy, which removes the uterus, is an option to eliminate fibroids.
MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS): This cutting-edge, non-invasive treatment uses high-intensity ultrasound waves to target and shrink fibroids.
Lifestyle Changes: A balanced diet, exercise, and stress management can play a role in alleviating fibroid symptoms.
The right treatment option for you will depend on your unique circumstances, your desired family planning, and your healthcare provider's recommendations.
Remember, ladies, you don't have to navigate the world of fibroids alone. If you suspect you may have fibroids or are experiencing symptoms, reach out to your healthcare provider to discuss your concerns and explore the best path forward for your health and well-being.
Stay fabulous, stay informed, and take charge of your health! 💕🌸✨