Uterine Fibromyoma (fibroids)
Are, also, called myoma or leiomyoma, but are most commonly called "fibroids". Fibroids grow in the uterus, and are among the most common medical conditions affecting women. Fibroids are almost, always beign (non-cancerous) tumours, which grow from the muscle wall of the uterus.
Fibroids are more common in women over 35 years of age, and are rarely found in younger women. The cause is uncertain, although the condition is believed to be linked to female hormone levels which seem to accelerate growth. Therefore, fibroids grow, or start to grow, during the reproductive years, while on the contraceptive pill, or during pregnancy. After menopause, fibroid growth will slow, although taking HRT may change this.
Fibroids may grow as large as a football, which is about the size of a 14 week pregnancy, and is usually when afflicted women realise their presence, and take themselves to the doctor. However, most fibroids are discovered during routine pelvic examinations. In many cases a hysterectomy is perfomed to remove the fibroid, and the uterus. However, if the woman wants to preserve her uterus, the fibroid may be removed leaving the uterus intact - this surgery is called a myomectomy.
Sypmtoms of a sizeable fibroid/s can include: heavier than usual menstrual bleeding, bleeding between periods, abdominal swelling, a feeling of pelvic pressure or heaviness, urge to pass urine (as fibroid presses on bladder), feeling of constipation (due to pressure on bowel), and difficulty conceiving (due to pressure on Fallopian tubes). However, it is very important to note - these symptoms are not diagnostic of just uterine fibroids, and symptoms may be due to something else entirely. Also, some women may not have any symptoms at all.
For these reasons it is important to have a pelvic examination regularly - this is usually done by a doctor, or gynaecologist, following the all important Pap smear - all sexually active women are advised to have a Pap smear every two years, unless advised otherwise by their doctor. However, if you have never been sexually active, you could still have a fibroid/s - so, a pelvic examination on a regular basis is still a good idea, and you should discuss this with your general practioner (GP).
Here are some Australian websites which contain more information, or more detailed information, concerning fibroids, diagnosis options, and both surgical and non-surgical treatment options:
Uterine fibroids: what you need to know
Dr Feelgood's FAQ's on Fibroids
Myomectomy on the Better Health Channel
This page put on this website for first time on Thurs, 20th Nov 2008 23:23:51