Uterine fibroids are lumps that develop and grow in and around the uterus. This usually develops during a female’s reproductive age.
The cause is still unknown but progesterone and estrogen hormones can affect its growth.
A woman may have one fibroid or multiple fibroids. The size can range from a size of an apple seed to the size of a watermelon.
The following are some of its symptoms:
- Menstrual periods lasting more than a week
- Constipation
- Painful or heavy menstruation
- Backache
- Leg pain
- Pelvic pressure
- Pelvic pain
Fibroids can grow and block menstrual cycle. Some women experience 2 to 3 months without a period. This is because the fibroid has grown and pushed the uterus.
Since it is pushed, bits of the compact and spongy layer of the endometrium (part of the uterus wall) will not be slough off. This means there will be no menstrual cycle.
The cycle can also be affected by the medications used to treat fibroids. GnRH agonist stops the production of estrogen that aids in the menstrual cycle.
Uterine fibroids cannot be passed during a menstrual cycle. This is because it is intact as it develops in and around the uterus. The endometrium is the only part that sheds during a menstrual cycle.
The location of the fibroid could also affect the menstrual cycle. If the location is near the opening of the uterus, a small fibroid can still stop a menstrual cycle. This causes irregular periods.
Women nearing menopausal stage can mistake it as premenopausal stage. This is around 4-5 years before the woman becomes menopause. In some cases, it can be the opposite which is heavy bleeding. If this happens, you could be at risk for anemia. Seek professional help as soon as possible.
In some rare cases, uterine fibroids can become twisted or infected. These cases can create intense symptoms such as sharp pain, painful menstrual period an irregular bleeding. If this happens, seek medical help immediately. This is to avoid the risk of anemia and blood loss.
The following are some period symptoms woman should not ignore:
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Skipped Periods
Most women have regular periods of about once every 28 days. If you are not pregnant and your period suddenly stops, it may be caused by fibroids, polyps, extreme stress and continuous use of birth control pills.
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Heavy menstrual bleeding
The volume of period blood varies from woman to woman. If you are able to soak through one pad an hour, you may have menorrhagia or heavy menstrual flow.
It may be caused by uterine fibroids and hormonal imbalance.
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Bleeding between periods
This is characterized by spotting in between periods. This can be caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). One common cause of this can also be uterine fibroids.
Keep in mind that irregular periods are due to the size and location of the fibroid. If it is close to the opening of the uterus it can block and stop menstrual cycle.
It is best to have fibroids treated before it grows and cause further problems. The problems include anemia (due to heavy bleeding) and discomfort during the onset of menstruation.
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