Fibroids

What are fibroids?

Uterine Fibroids are non cancerous growth of the uterus that usually occur in child bearing years. They vary in size from seedlings to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. It may lead to infertility.

Causes of fibroids?

The exact cause of developing fibroids are unknown. Fibroids tend to run in families may be due to hormonal changes (increased estrogen levels), other risk factor are obesity and genetic alterations.

Symptoms of fibroids?

Heavy periods lasting over a week, pelvic pressure or pain, frequent urination, difficulty in emptying the bladder, constipation, back ache or legs pain.

Diagnoses of fibroids?

Ultrasound pelvis preferably TVS, MRI pelvis., Hysterosonography, Hysterosalpingography, Hysteroscopy.

Treatment of fibroids?

Treatment depends upon the severity of the fibroid i.e., medical treatment or removal of fibroids.

Medical treatment is for the symptomatic relief and shrinkage of the fibroid size. For symptomatic relief painkillers and medications to reduce the bleeding can be given. To shrink the size  birth control pills, hormonal injections, medications like Danazol, Mefipristone can be given.

Surgical treatment includes, Myomectomy in cases of infertility or Hysterectomy ( if the family is complete). It can be done by open or Laparoscopic approach. Other treatments options are uterine artery embolization/ligation, endometrial ablation, radiofrequency ablation.