![Uterine fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas or fibroids, are benign smooth muscle tumors of the uterus.[1] Most w...](https://img4.findhealthclinics.com/678/105/124032806781052.jpg)
12/01/2022
Uterine fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas or fibroids, are benign smooth muscle tumors of the uterus.[1] Most women have no symptoms while others may have painful or heavy periods.[1] If large enough, they may push on the bladder causing a frequent need to urinate.[1] They may also cause pain during s*x or lower back pain.[1][3] A woman can have one uterine fibroid or many.[1]Occasionally, fibroids may make it difficult to become pregnant, although this is uncommon.[1]
Uterine fibroidsOther namesUterine leiomyoma, uterine myoma, myoma, fibromyoma, fibroleiomyomaï¿ŒUterine fibroids as seen during laparoscopic surgerySpecialtyGynecologySymptomsPainful or heavy periods[1]ComplicationsInfertility[1]Usual onsetMiddle and later reproductive years[1]CausesUnknown[1]Risk factorsFamily history, obesity, eating red meat[1]Diagnostic methodPelvic examination, medical imaging[1]Differential diagnosisLeiomyosarcoma, pregnancy, ovarian cyst, ovarian cancer[2]TreatmentMedications, surgery, uterine artery embolization[1]MedicationIbuprofen, paracetamol(acetaminophen), iron supplements, gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist[1]PrognosisImprove after menopause[1]Frequency~50% of women by age 50[1]
The exact cause of uterine fibroids is unclear.[1] However, fibroids run in families and appear to be partly determined by hormone levels.[1]Risk factors include obesity and eating red meat.[1] Diagnosis can be performed by pelvic examination or medical imaging.[1]
Treatment is typically not needed if there are no symptoms.[1] NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, may help with pain and bleeding while paracetamol (acetaminophen) may help with pain.[1][4] Ironsupplements may be needed in those with heavy periods.[1]Medications of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist class may decrease the size of the fibroids but are expensive and associated with side effects.[1] If greater symptoms are present, surgery to remove the fibroid or uterus may help.[1] Uterine artery embolization may also he
