What is Uterus Fibroid?
Uterus Fibroids also called leiomyomas. Uterus Fibroids are growths made of muscle and tissue, that form in or on the wall of uterus. These growths are usually not cancerous and are the most common noncancerous tumor in females.
##How many types of Uterus Fibroid?
There are different types of Uterus Fibroids depending on their location and how they attach. Specific types of uterine fibroids include:
* Intramural fibroids: These fibroids are embedded into the muscular wall of uterus and they’re mostly common type.
* Submucosal fibroids: These fibroids grow under the inner lining of uterus.
* Subserosal fibroids: This type of fibroid grows under the lining of the outer surface of uterus. They can become quite large and grow into pelvis.
* Pedunculated fibroids: The last common type, these fibroids attach to uterus with a stalk or stem. They’re often described as mushroom like because they have a stalk and then a wider top.
##What are the symptoms of fibroids?
Fibroids are usually small and don’t cause any symptoms.
When uterine fibroids do cause symptoms they include:
* Heavy periods
* Long lasting periods
* Bleeding between periods
* Painful period
* Pain or pressure in your pelvis or lower back
* Painful sex
* Needing to urinate (wee) a lot
* Constipation
* Long term ( chronic) vaginal discharge
Symptoms from fibroids usually get better after menopause.
##What are the causes of uterine fibroids?
The exact cause is unknown, but healthcare providers believe the hormones estrogen and progesterone play a role.
1. Most fibroids happen in people of reproductive age. Studies show that fibroids tend to grow when hormone levels are higher ( like during pregnancy) and shrink when hormone levels are low ( like during the transition to menopause)
2. Starting period before age 11 .
3. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of fibroids.
4. Major life stessors may also be associated with fibroid development due to hormone changes.
5. Consumption of alcohol, especially beer and caffeine may increase the risk.
6. Many fibroids contain changes in genes that differ from those in typical uterine muscle cells.
7. Obesity is the other cause of uterus fibroids.
##How fibroids can affect fertility?
* Distortion of the Uterine Cavity: Submucosal fibroids can deform the uterus, making it harder for an embryo to implant.
* Blockage of Fallopian tubes : Fibroids can compress or block the fallopian tubes, preventing the egg from travelling to the uterus or interfering with sperm transport.
*Reduced Blood flow : Fibroids can disrupt blood flow to the Uterine Cavity, which is crucial for implantation and early fetal development.
* Impact on Endometrial lining : Fibroids can alter the size and shape of the Uterine lining, impacting its ability to support implantation and pregnancy.
* Changes in Vagino – Uterine Microbiome : Fibroids can alter the vaginal and uterine microbiome, creating a less favorable environment for implantation.
* Increased Risk of Miscarriage and preterm labor : Some fibroids, especially those located in the lower uterine segment, can increase the risk of miscarriage and preterm labor.
