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An extremely common condition in women,
fibroids are benign growths in the uterus. While
generally referred to as uterine fibroids, there are
actually three different types of uterine fibroid:
intramural fibroids; suberosal fibroids, and submucosal
fibroids. The different names refer to the various
locations these fibroids may be found within the uterus.
However, fibroid tumors are not only fund in the uterus.
It is also possible to have ovarian fibroids and breast
fibroids.
Uterine fibroids can lead to a number of
symptoms, including pressure in the abdomen and
heavy menstrual periods. In some cases, fibroids can
even contribute to infertility issues. Although it is
entirely possible to achieve pregnancy, about a quarter
of women with fibroids will experience difficulties
getting pregnant.
Diagnosing fibroids is not
extremely difficult. Some can be felt during a routine
pelvic exam while others may require the use of
ultrasound, laparoscopy or even a hysteroscopy to
determine the fibroids exact location. If your fibroids
are interfering with your life in some way, medications
can be prescribed to combat fibroid symptoms while
surgery can be performed to remove the fibroids.
However, the only way to permanently eradicate uterine
fibroids is through a hysterectomy.
Because fibroids are in fact tumors,
many women may be concerned about whether or not their
fibroids will lead to cancer. While there is connection
between the two, it is extremely rare for fibroids to
develop into cancerous growths. Typically, a fibroid is
noticed long before it has a chance to become cancerous.
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