Uterine Fibroids Treatment Hospital in Punjabi Bagh, Delhi

About Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids, medically known as leiomyomas, are benign tumors that develop in the uterus. These growths are among the most prevalent gynecological conditions impacting women, especially during their reproductive years. Fibroids vary greatly in size, from tiny nodules resembling grains of sand to large masses that can significantly alter the size and shape of the uterus. Composed of smooth muscle and fibrous tissue, fibroids may form on the outer uterine wall, within the muscle layers, or inside the uterine cavity. They may occur as a single growth or multiple fibroids in different areas of the uterus.

Types of Uterine Fibroids

Based on their position in the uterus, fibroids are categorized as follows:

• Subserosal Fibroids: These fibroids develop on the outer layer of the uterus and often grow outward, potentially pressing on nearby organs like the bladder or intestines. Subserosal fibroids may be felt as abdominal lumps during a physical exam.
• Intramural Fibroids: The most frequently encountered type, these fibroids grow within the uterine muscular wall and can cause the uterus to enlarge. They are commonly associated with heavy periods, pelvic pressure, and abdominal distension.
• Submucosal Fibroids: Found just beneath the uterine lining, submucosal fibroids protrude into the uterine cavity, often resulting in heavy or irregular bleeding and sometimes impacting fertility or increasing miscarriage risk.
• Pedunculated Fibroids: These fibroids grow on stalk-like structures attached to the uterus and can be subserosal or submucosal. They may cause acute pain if the stalk twists or exert pressure on neighboring organs.

Fibroids can present a combination of these types, and their symptoms and influence on fertility depend largely on their size, number, and position within the uterus.

Fibroids are most common in women aged 30 to 50 and often shrink after menopause when hormonal levels decline. Women of African descent face a higher risk of developing fibroids. Although fibroids are non-cancerous and don’t increase uterine cancer risk, they can lead to significant discomfort and reproductive challenges, prompting many women to seek medical care. Treatment approaches depend on fibroid characteristics, symptom severity, and reproductive goals.

Signs & Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and depend on fibroid size, number, and location. Some women experience no symptoms, while others face considerable challenges:

• Heavy or Prolonged Menstrual Bleeding: Fibroids often cause intense menstrual periods, sometimes with significant cramping and blood clots, requiring frequent pad changes.
• Pelvic Pain and Pressure: Many women report a persistent ache or sharp pressure in the pelvic region, often worsened by the fibroid’s size and placement.
• Abdominal Enlargement: Large fibroids can make the abdomen visibly protrude, creating a sensation of fullness or bloating.
• Urinary Issues: Fibroids pressing on the bladder may lead to frequent urination, sudden urges, or a sensation of incomplete emptying.
• Constipation: Pressure on the rectum or intestines may cause bowel movement difficulties or chronic constipation.
• Pain During Intercourse: Fibroids can cause discomfort or sharp pain during sexual activity.
• Infertility or Pregnancy Complications: Fibroids may hinder conception or cause miscarriage, preterm labor, or the need for cesarean delivery.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a gynecologist for proper diagnosis and individualized treatment planning.

Causes and Risk Factors of Uterine Fibroids

The precise causes of fibroids remain unclear, but several contributing factors have been identified:

• Hormonal Influence: Estrogen and progesterone stimulate fibroid growth, which tends to increase during reproductive years and diminish after menopause.
• Genetic Factors: A family history of fibroids increases the likelihood of developing them. Certain gene mutations may predispose individuals to fibroid development.
• Growth Factors: Elements like insulin-like growth factor (IGF) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) can promote abnormal uterine cell proliferation.
• Abnormal Uterine Muscle Cells: Structural and functional abnormalities in uterine muscle cells may lead to fibroid formation.
• Other Influences: Obesity, high consumption of red meat, low fruit and vegetable intake, and environmental factors can contribute to fibroid risk, though research is ongoing.

Not every woman with risk factors will develop fibroids, and some women may develop them without any identifiable risk factors. A medical evaluation is recommended to understand individual risk and devise suitable management strategies.

Complications of Uterine Fibroids

Untreated fibroids may cause several health complications, including:

• Severe Menstrual Bleeding: Can cause anemia, fatigue, and disruption in daily activities.
• Persistent Pelvic Pain: Pressure from large fibroids may cause chronic discomfort and lower back pain.
• Urinary and Bowel Dysfunction: Compression of the bladder or intestines can result in frequent urination, difficulty passing stools, or incomplete emptying.
• Fertility Issues: Fibroids can impede implantation or fetal development, leading to miscarriage or preterm birth.
• Structural Uterine Changes: Large fibroids can distort uterine, cervical, or tubal anatomy, impairing reproductive health.
• Fibroid Degeneration: Lack of blood supply to a fibroid can cause intense pain and inflammation.
• Emotional Impact: Ongoing symptoms and infertility challenges may lead to depression or social withdrawal.

Tips to Prevent or Manage Fibroids

Though not all fibroids are preventable, adopting a healthy lifestyle can reduce risk or control symptoms:

• Maintain a balanced weight to avoid excess estrogen.
• Eat an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Limit red meat and processed foods.
• Incorporate plant-based estrogen regulators like broccoli and soy.
• Exercise regularly to support hormonal balance.
• Manage stress with practices such as yoga or mindfulness.
• Avoid endocrine disruptors in plastics and cosmetics.
• Undergo regular gynecological checkups.

If you face heavy periods, pelvic discomfort, or fertility challenges, consult the expert gynecology team at MGS-MASSH Hospital for advanced diagnostics and individualized treatment, including hormonal therapy, laparoscopic myomectomy, or robotic-assisted surgery.

How are fibroids diagnosed?

Fibroids are diagnosed using:

• Pelvic ultrasound
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
• Hysterosonography (saline infusion ultrasound)
• Hysteroscopy
• Blood tests (to rule out anemia or other conditions)

Uterine Fibroids Treatment Options

 1. Medical Management

• Hormonal pills, IUDs, GnRH agonists, Tranexamic Acid, and NSAIDs to control symptoms and reduce bleeding.

 2. Minimally Invasive Procedures

• Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE): Cuts fibroid blood supply.
• MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS): Non-invasive fibroid ablation.

 3. Surgical Treatment

• Myomectomy: Removes fibroids, preserves uterus.
• Hysterectomy: Complete uterus removal for severe cases.

 4. Advanced Techniques

• 3D Laparoscopic or Myomectomy for precise, faster recovery.