Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. These benign tumors can vary in size, number, and growth rate, causing a wide range of symptoms from mild or none to severe. Symptoms can be influenced by the location, size and number of fibroids.
The symptoms of uterine fibroids can be quite varied. One of the most common symptoms is abnormal menstrual bleeding, which can manifest as heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), prolonged menstrual periods lasting more than a week, or spotting and bleeding between periods. Women suffering from fibroids might also experience pelvic pain or pressure, a sensation similar to menstrual cramps but more persistent. Additionally, this pressure can lead to frequent urination as the fibroids press against the bladder, or conversely, cause difficulty in fully emptying the bladder. Moreover, some women may struggle with constipation or feel a sense of fullness in the lower abdomen. Backache or leg pain is another symptom that occurs when fibroids press on nerves. In more severe cases, uterine fibroids can lead to complications in pregnancy and labor, potentially causing a decrease in fertility or recurrent miscarriages. Despite these symptoms, it’s notable that a significant number of women with uterine fibroids experience no symptoms at all, which makes regular pelvic examinations important for early detection and management.
The exact cause of uterine fibroids is not clear. These factors may play a role:
- Gene changes – Many fibroids contain changes in genes that differ from those in typical uterine muscle cells.
- Hormones – Estrogen and progesterone cause the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus to thicken during each menstrual cycle to prepare for pregnancy. These hormones also seem to help fibroids grow.
Fibroids contain more cells that estrogen and progesterone bind to than typical uterine muscle cells. Fibroids tend to shrink after menopause due to a drop in hormone levels.
- Other growth factors – Substances that help the body maintain tissues, such as insulin-like growth factor, may affect fibroid growth.
- Extracellular matrix (ECM) – This material makes cells stick together. ECM is increased in fibroids. ECM also stores growth factors and causes biologic changes in the cells themselves.
The growth patterns of uterine fibroids vary. They may grow slowly or fast. Or they might stay the same size. Some fibroids go through growth spurts, and some shrink on their own. Fibroids that form during pregnancy can shrink or go away after pregnancy, as the uterus goes back to its usual size.
Despite their prevalence, the exact cause of uterine fibroids remains unclear, although genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors may all play a role. Treatment options vary based on the severity of symptoms and can range from watchful waiting to medical or surgical interventions. Given that sometimes there are no symptoms, regular checkups from a health provider are recommended.
Learn more at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/uterine-fibroids/symptoms-causes/syc-20354288
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