Fibroids are benign tumours of the uterus.
What do we know about the uterus ?
The uterus is a part of the female reproductive system. The uterus is an organ of the female reproductive system, which normally carries the foetus in the pregnant woman till childbirth. There are two parts of the uterus, the upper part called the body and the lower part extending into vagina called the cervix.Again, the wall of the uterus has two layers. The uterus’s inner layer is the endometrium and outer layer of muscle or myometrium. It is this muscular layer which pushes the baby out in childbirth.
What are fibroids ?
They are muscular tumors that arise in the uterine wall or the wall of the womb. The medical term for fibroids is “leiomyoma”. It is important to note that fibroids are almost always benign and mostly not cancerous. So fibroids can either grow as a single tumor, or as multiple tumours in the uterus. They can be either small or large.
What are the symptoms of fibroids ?
In quite a few women with fibroids, they are free of symptoms. Women who do show symptoms find it difficult to live with fibroids. Some of the symptoms include pain in the abdomen and heavy menstrual bleeding (which can be bad enough to result in anaemia).Fibroids can also pressurize the bladder, resulting in urinating often, or build pressure on the rectum. Sometimes, fibroids increase in size causing a woman to appear pregnant.There can also be a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen.Sometimes they may result in complications of pregnancy and labour, including a higher risk of Cesarean section.
How are fibroids diagnosed ?
- A complete physical examination of the body is mandatory.
- Ultrasound of the uterus : This will have to be undergone to see the uterus, its shape, size and structure. The uterine cancer check-up involves Pelvic Ultrasonography, Hysteroscopy or Laparoscopy.
- Imaging Tests : To determine the exact extent of disease, additional imaging and radiographic tests may need to be performed so doctors can view, assess and judge the cancer. These imaging tests include the following such as X- rays, CT Scan, MRI Scan or PET Scans.
- Hysteroscopy: This is a way the doctors can scan and examine the uterus. The doctor with the help of a miniature telescope inserted through the cervix, can see entire uterus.
- Laparoscopy : A long, thin scope is inserted into an incision made in or near the belly button or navel. This scope is equipped with a bright light and a mounted camera. This allows the doctor to view and examine the uterus and other abdominal organs.
How are fibroids treated ?
Depending on the fibroids, either medicines or surgery can be used to treat fibroids.
- Medications: If you have milder symptoms, your doctor may suggest taking over-the-counter analgesics for
the pain. If there is heavy menstrual bleeding and anaemia, iron supplements will have to be taken. Low-dose birth control pills control the growth of fibroids and heavy bleeding. - Surgery: Fibroids with moderate to severe symptoms, surgery will be the best way to treat them.
Myomectomy is the surgery to eradicate fibroids without removing the healthy uterine tissue. It only removes the muscular fibroid(s), whilst preserving the uterus. You can become pregnant, even post myomectomy.
How to find and reach gynecologists for the treatment of fibroids ?
Now you can find and reach gynecologists for fibroid treatment from different hospitals and destinations on a single platform, Hinfoways. You can avail opinions and information from multiple gynecologists, get approximate cost for the treatment of fibroids from various hospitals, compare things and then choose a gynecologist for the treatment of fibroids.
Find, reach and choose a gynecologist for the treatment of fibroids on Hinfoways. Make an informed choice.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
