Uterine fibroids are very common in women of child-bearing age. They are non-cancerous tumors in the uterus that often go unnoticed. the appearance of these tumors have no association with an increased risk of uterine cancer and rarely develop into cancer.
The information about the causes of fibroids is still rather scarce. however, there are some factors that have been associated to the development of these tumors.
Fibroids have been observed to contain higher amount of estrogen and progesterone than normal muscle cells in uterus. That is why they have been suspected to promote the growth of fibroids. Besides these two hormones, other tissue maintaining substances are suspected to be the factors of development of fibroids.
It is very common that uterine fibroids don’t cause any symptoms. That is why most women don’t even know that they have fibroids. in those cases, when their existence doesn’t cause any harm, it is unnecessary to plan and carry out any treatments.
Sometimes fibroids do cause discomfort so that it influence for the quality of life. in that case, a surgical operation may become an option. This approach can be used to shrink or even remove the fibroids.
Some women do experience fibroids symptoms. the most common symptoms associated with uterine fibroids include heavy menstrual bleeding that lasts longer than 7 days, pressure or pain in the pelvic area, frequent urination, difficulty urinating, constipation and backache or leg pains. although, they are not considered serious, you should contact your doctor if you notice any symptoms as you will want to rule out more serious conditions that may produce similar symptoms.
Sometimes fibroids are painful when they start to die due to lack of blood circulation. the substances released from the dying fibroid can cause some ache. again, if the symptoms are intense, you should meet a physician.
If the fibroids develop inside of the uterus they can cause increased and prolonged bleeding during menstrual periods. these fibroids can also cause difficulties to get pregnant. when the fibroids are outside of the uterus they can cause for example constipation, difficulties to urinate, increased need of urination, and pain in lower back, depending on their location.
It is important to seek medical attention if you have pelvic pain that doesn’t go away, have unusually long and heavy periods, spotting or bleeding between periods, painful intercourse, difficulty with urination or difficulty with bowel movements. it is imperative that you seek immediate medical attention if you suddenly experience sharp pelvic pain or heavy bleeding.