Uterine fibroid: a complete guide to understanding and treatment

A uterine fibroid is a common, non-cancerous growth that can appear in the female reproductive system, affecting many women at some point in their lives. Fortunately, these fibroids often shrink or even disappear as hormone levels drop during menopause. In this article, we'll explain what causes them, how to recognise the symptoms, and what you can do to manage them effectively. 

What is a uterine fibroid? 

Fibroids, also known as myomas, are non-cancerous tumours that mainly form in or around the uterus. They can range in size from as small as a grain of rice to as large as a melon. It's common for a woman to have one or multiple fibroids at the same time ^(1,2). 

According to the Office on Women's Health, between 20 % and 80 % of women develop fibroids before age 50 ⁽³⁾. 

Symptoms  

Many women experience no symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they vary based on the size, number, and location of the fibroids. The most common include ^{(1, 3)}: 

Causes of a uterine fibroid 

The development of uterine fibroids is largely influenced by estrogen and progesterone hormones. These hormones stimulate uterine growth and promote the formation of fibroids. This is why, as hormone levels drop after menopause, fibroids often shrink ^{(1, 3)}. 

Risk factors 

Several factors can increase the probability of developing a uterine fibroid, besides hormones: 

In some women, uterine fibroid may coexist with other conditions like ovarian cysts or fibrocystic breast disease, which is why a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment is essential. 

Diagnosing a uterine fibroid 

For an accurate diagnosis, it's essential to consult a gynaecologist. The doctor will perform a pelvic exam to assess the condition, size, and shape of the uterus ^{(1, 3)}.  

In addition to the physical exam, imaging tests are often required to confirm the presence of fibroids ^{(1, 3)}. For example: 

How to treat a uterine fibroid: medical options and when to seek help 

Many uterine fibroids tend to shrink naturally with the onset of menopause. If your symptoms are mild or manageable, your healthcare provider may recommend a “watchful waiting” approach. This means monitoring the condition with regular follow-up visits. In some cases, pelvic ultrasound is performed to track any changes in the size or number of fibroids. 

However, if your symptoms significantly affect your quality of life, treatment options will depend on their severity and whether you wish to preserve your fertility. These may include ^{(1, 3)}: 

1. Medical treatments:  

• Hormonal treatments to regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce heavy bleeding.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve pelvic pain. 

2. Surgical procedures:  

•  Uterine artery embolisation (a minimally invasive procedure).
• Surgery (myomectomy or hysterectomy, depending on the severity of the case). 

Healthy lifestyle habits that can help  

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly support the management of a uterine fibroid. Here are some key recommendations ⁽³⁾: 

1. Improve your diet: cut back on processed meats and high-calorie foods. Instead, include antioxidant-rich foods and drinks, leafy green vegetables, green tea, and cold-water fish like tuna and salmon. 

2. Manage stress: Maintaining low stress levels is crucial for your overall well-being. Natural supplements, such as Issviva ZZZZs, may be a helpful option for safely supporting stress management. 

3. Maintain a healthy weight: If you are overweight, losing a few pounds can help relieve fibroid-related symptoms. 

To sum up, a uterine fibroid is a common condition that, in many cases, tends to shrink or disappear naturally during menopause. Generally, treatment is not necessary unless the symptoms significantly impact your quality of life. 

Following a balanced lifestyle that includes healthy eating, proper stress management, and maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for both preventing and controlling this condition. 

If this topic has caught your attention, you may also be interested in learning more about vaginoplasty or how to treat varicose veins in your legs. 

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