Fibroids

Fibroids are a common concern among women, particularly those in their reproductive years. They are benign tumours that grow in the uterus, often leading to various symptoms that may impact a woman's quality of life.

Understanding fibroids, their symptoms, treatment options, and when to seek medical attention can empower women to take control of their health.

Fibroids

What are Fibroids?

Fibroids, or uterine myomas, are non-cancerous growths that form in the uterine wall. These tumours can range in size from tiny seedlings to large masses that can disfigure the shape of the uterus. Fibroids may develop as a single growth or in clusters, and they can be located in different parts of the uterus:

Intramural fibroids

These are found within the muscular wall of the uterus and are the most common type.

Subserosal fibroids

Forming on the outer surface of the uterus, these fibroids can extend outward and may cause pressure on nearby organs.

Submucosal fibroids

These grow just beneath the uterus' inner lining and can protrude into the uterine cavity, often leading to heavier menstrual bleeding.

Pedunculated fibroids

These fibroids are connected to the uterus by a stalk and can develop both inside and outside the uterus.

Fibroids are most commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 30 and 50 and can shrink after menopause due to decreased hormone levels.

Symptoms of Fibroids

Many women with fibroids experience no symptoms at all. However, for those who do, symptoms can vary based on the size, location, and number of fibroids. Common symptoms include:

Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: A frequent symptom which can lead to anaemia in some women.
Prolonged Periods: Menstrual bleeding may last longer than normal.
Pelvic Pain or Pressure: Women may experience discomfort or feeling fullness in the pelvic region.
Frequent Urination: Large fibroids can pressure the bladder, causing increased urinary frequency.
Back Pain: Pressure from fibroids on the lower back can cause pain or discomfort.
Pain During Intercourse: Some women may feel pain during intercourse due to the presence of fibroids.

These symptoms can substantially impact quality of life, and women should consult a fibroid specialist if they experience any of them.

Causes of Fibroids

Hormones

Oestrogen and progesterone are two hormones that stimulate the growth of the uterine lining. Fibroids often develop during a woman's reproductive years when hormone levels are highest.

Genetics

There may be a hereditary component, as fibroids tend to run in families. Women with a family history of fibroids are more likely to develop them.

Environmental Factors

Being exposed to certain environmental toxins and lifestyle habits, such as poor diet, may also play a role in fibroid development.

Understanding these potential causes can help women take preventive measures where possible. While fibroids cannot always be prevented, maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress, and limiting exposure to environmental toxins may help reduce risk factors.

Diagnosing Fibroids

If fibroids are suspected based on symptoms, a doctor may recommend several diagnostic tests to confirm their presence. Common methods of diagnosing fibroids include:

Pelvic Exam: A doctor may perform a physical examination to check for irregularities in the uterus.
Ultrasound: This imaging test employs sound waves to create a visual of the uterus and can help identify the size and location of fibroids.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI scans provide detailed images of the uterus and can determine the size and position of fibroids and assess their impact on surrounding organs.
Hysteroscopy: In this procedure, a thin, lighted tube is placed gently into the uterus through the vagina to visualise the uterine cavity and identify submucosal fibroids directly.

Diagnosing fibroids accurately will help determine the best treatment options for fibroids.

Fibroid Treatment Options

In treating fibroids, women have several options depending on the severity of their condition. The doctor will take the symptoms, the size of the fibroid and its position in the uterus into consideration before recommending an appropriate treatment.

Treatment can be categorised into non-surgical and surgical options.

Surgical

Myomectomy: Usually done as a minimally-invasive surgery, laparoscopic myomectomy removes fibroids while preserving the uterus, making it suitable for women who wish to preserve their fertility. Myomectomy can be performed via abdominal, laparoscopic, or hysteroscopic techniques depending on the size and location of the fibroids.
Hysterectomy: A hysterectomy may be recommended in cases where fibroids cause severe symptoms and when other treatments have failed. This surgery is the total removal of the uterus to get rid of extensive fibroids. Open surgery hysterectomy may also be considered for large fibroids.
Endometrial Ablation: This procedure ablates the lining of the uterus to reduce menstrual bleeding but is typically recommended for women who do not wish to become pregnant.

Non-Surgical

Medications: Hormonal therapies, such as contraceptive pills or progestin-releasing intrauterine devices (IUDs), can help manage heavy menstrual bleeding and reduce other symptoms associated with fibroids. GnRH agonists can shrink fibroids temporarily but are not suitable for long-term use due to potential side effects.
Uterine Artery Embolisation (UAE): This minimally invasive procedure involves injecting particles into the blood vessels supplying the fibroids, cutting off their blood supply and causing them to shrink.
MRI-guided Focused Ultrasound: This non-invasive procedure uses ultrasound waves to target and destroy fibroid tissue while preserving healthy uterine tissue.

When To See a Doctor

Women should see a doctor when they experience one or more of the following symptoms:

Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
Severe pelvic pain or pressure
Symptoms affecting daily life, such as frequent urination or back pain
Changes in menstrual cycles
Difficulty becoming pregnant

Getting prompt treatment can lead to positive outcomes, improving quality of life.

Fibroid Treatment in Singapore

Understanding fibroids can empower women to seek the care they need and improve their quality of life. If you suspect you have fibroids or are experiencing any related symptoms, consider consulting a healthcare provider for an evaluation and personalised treatment plan.

At Pacific Healthcare Specialist Centre, we understand the challenges women face with fibroids. Our treatments and our patient-centred approach aim to help women regain control over their health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can fibroids affect fertility?

Yes, fibroids can impact fertility by obstructing the fallopian tubes or affecting the implantation of an embryo. However, many women with fibroids are still able to conceive and have healthy pregnancies.

Can fibroids shrink on their own?

In some cases, fibroids may shrink after menopause when hormone levels decrease. However, not all fibroids will shrink; some may remain stable or grow over time.

Do fibroids grow during pregnancy?

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause fibroids to grow. While many women with fibroids have successful pregnancies, monitoring is essential to address any potential complications.

Can fibroids be cancerous?

Fibroids are generally benign; however, in very rare cases, they can be cancerous. Women must undergo regular check-ups and consult with healthcare providers to monitor any changes in fibroid size or symptoms.

Can fibroids cause complications during pregnancy?

Fibroids can cause complications such as preterm labour, abnormal fetal position, or placental abruption. Most women with fibroids can have healthy and normal pregnancies, but monitoring by a healthcare provider is a must.

What is the recovery like after open and minimally invasive fibroid surgery?

Recovery times vary based on the type of surgery performed. Open surgery typically requires a longer recovery period, ranging from several weeks to a few months. In contrast, minimally invasive procedures like laparoscopic myomectomy usually involve shorter recovery times, allowing women to return to their normal activities more quickly.

Fibroids

What are Fibroids?

Intramural fibroids

Subserosal fibroids

Submucosal fibroids

Pedunculated fibroids

Symptoms of Fibroids

Causes of Fibroids

Hormones

Genetics

Environmental Factors

Diagnosing Fibroids

Fibroid Treatment Options

Surgical

Non-Surgical

When To See a Doctor

Fibroid Treatment in Singapore

Frequently Asked Questions

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