Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous (benign) tumours, commonly seen in women of childbearing age. Fibroids are composed of muscle cells and other tissues. They develop in and around the wall of the uterus. They can cause differing degrees of symptoms and may compromise fertility depending on their size and site on the uterus.
Which sites can fibroids grow?
What are the risk factors associated with developing fibroids?
The exact cause for the development of fibroids remains unknown, but some of these risks factors have been associated with fibroids:
What are the Symptoms of fibroids?
The majority of women with uterine fibroids may have no symptoms. Other women may experience:
What are the investigations for fibroids?
The diagnosis of uterine fibroids involves a pelvic examination, followed by ultrasound evaluation. Other imaging techniques such as MRI scan and CT scan may also be employed.What are the treatment options?
Some treatments target the symptoms of fibroids, such as medication for heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding or pain medication for pressure or pain symptoms.
Other treatment options are targeted at treating the fibroids. These include:
What are the risks during pregnancy associated with fibroids?
Some studies indicate that the presence of uterine fibroids during pregnancy increases the risk of complications such as first trimester bleeding, breech presentation, placental abruption, increased chance of caesarean section and problems during labour.