What are uterine fibroids? Additional information

What are the causes of uterine fibroids?

While medical research has been unable to determine exactly the agents causing fibroids, it is very likely that the formation of fibroids is related to the female reproductive hormones (progesterone and estrogen) and to the changes that happen during the menstrual cycle, as well as some hereditary factors.

Pregnancy and fibroids

According to their type and size, fibroids can make conception difficult. Fibroids may obstruct the entrance to the fallopian tubes, preventing sperm from reaching the uterus or impeding the implantation of the zygote and the growth of the embryo.
It is important to point out that most female infertility problems are caused by the existence of fibroids.

Age and fibroids

Fibroids may develop from the moment that a woman reaches her reproductive age, though it is most common in women between 30 and 50 years of age. The symptoms caused by fibroids decrease considerably during menopause, due to the reduction of hormonal levels during this stage.

Types of fibroids

Fibroids start as a cell that reproduces exponentially until it becomes a mass of fibroid tissues and muscles inside the uterus wall or from it. Their number and growth is unpredictable:  when they are small or come in a reduced number, the patient may be entirely asymptomatic; however, fibroids may grow to reach the size of a grapefruit, and when this happens the symptoms become very evident.

Fibroids are classified according to their position in relation to the uterus:

• Intramural fibroids develop at the center of the uterus wall and are asymptomatic unless their size reaches large proportions. This is the most common type of fibroids.
• Submucosal fibroids develop just under the lining of the uterus and are the first cause of abundant bleedings.
• Subserosal fibroids develop close to the exterior wall of the uterus. If they press the bladder or urethra, they can make urination difficult or affect its frequency. In case they push the rectum or the nerves behind the uterus, they may produce constipation, back pain, or leg pain.
• Pedunculated fibroids grow off the wall of the uterus and develop inside or outside of it. While not common, this type of fibroids may cause sharp pain if they rotate over themselves.

How do I know if I have fibroids?

There are several ways of diagnosing fibroids and Médica Sur Hospital offers the most innovative, quick, and efficient methods of both diagnosis and treatment. If you present any of the symptoms mentioned above, learn about the possibility of having fibroids by referring to the section Do I have uterine fibroids?