Women’s health: 5 things to know about fibroids
Would you know if you had a growth in your body the size of an orange? It sounds bizarre, but such is the nature of fibroids that many women are unaware of them.
A fibroid can be smaller than a stone or as big as a watermelon, yet is often undiagnosed or misunderstood. Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus and can range from painless to causing severe discomfort. While many women have fibroids at some point, we need to learn more about this condition.
5 important things to know about fibroids
1. Fibroids are extremely common
Uterine fibroids affect millions of women worldwide. According to researchers, up to 80% of women may develop fibroids by the age of 50, with a higher occurrence among Black women. What causes fibroids? The factors range from genetics, hormones (oestrogen and progesterone), and your lifestyle. For example, if you’re highly stressed, lack good nutrition, and have an inactive lifestyle, you could be at a higher risk.
2. Symptoms can vary or be non-existent
Some women are fortunate not to experience any concerning symptoms, but that’s not to say others will also go symptomless. Watch for these effects:
- Consistently heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding. These symptoms can further lead to fatigue, dizziness, and anaemia.
- Large fibroids can press against the surrounding organs, causing discomfort or pain around your pelvic area.
- If you’re experiencing frequent urination, that’s a sign the fibroids may be pressing on the bladder.
- Pain during sex is another sign of potential fibroids. Depending on where the fibroids are located, intercourse can become painful.
- While most women with fibroids can conceive and carry a pregnancy to term, in some cases, fibroids can cause complications like miscarriage or difficulties during delivery.
3. Fibroids can impact fertility and pregnancy
It’s not a given that fibroids will interfere with pregnancy, or even your ability to become pregnant. However, sometimes, fibroids may increase your risk of pregnancy complications. Some fibroids grow within the uterine lining or block the Fallopian tubes, making it difficult for an embryo to implant or for sperm to reach the egg. Other potential complications include the risk of preterm labour, Caesarean section, excessive bleeding after delivery, or miscarriage. If you are planning a pregnancy, and suspect you have fibroids, speak to your doctor to get the best advice.
4. Fibroids can be treated
The good news is that there is a range of treatments for fibroids, depending on the size and symptoms. Typically, if the fibroids are small enough not to be causing any issues, your doctor may recommend “watching and waiting”. Then, there’s medication to help control heavy bleeding, however, this won’t necessarily shrink the fibroids. For more intense symptoms, a doctor may recommend surgery or medical procedures to reduce the fibroids, remove the fibroids, or a hysterectomy, which is the complete removal of the uterus. This is a permanent solution for women who no longer wish to conceive and suffer from severe fibroid symptoms.
5. You can minimise your risk with a healthy lifestyle
Take proactive steps to prevent the growth and spread of fibroids. Regular exercise may help keep your oestrogen levels in check. Eat more vegetables and fewer meat products. Also, try to cut back on sugar and processed foods. Add more Vitamin D-rich foods to your diet, which could help shrink the fibroids. Always visit a doctor, go to the clinic, or a gynaecologist if you’re experiencing the symptoms we mentioned. You may think it’s just heavy bleeding from your period, but it could be fibroids, which a gynaecologist may be able to diagnose after a routine visit.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.