Fibroids
What Are Fibroids?
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus.
- Some women don’t even know they have them, while others experience heavy periods, pain, or bloating.
- They don’t come from ‘dirty blood’
Types of fibroids?
- Intramural fibroids: Found inside the muscle of the uterus—can make the womb stretch.
- Subserosal fibroids: Grow outside the uterus and may make the belly bulge.
- Pedunculated fibroids: These ones grow on a stalk inside or outside the uterus.
- Submucosal fibroids: Grow inside the uterus leading to heavy bleeding.
What causes fibroids?
- Hormones: Estrogen & progesterone can make them grow.
- Family history: If your mother or sister had them, you might too.
- Pregnancy: More hormones, faster fibroid growth.
- Age & weight: More common after 30 and in overweight women.
Myths about fibroids?
- Fibroids are not caused by dirty blood
- Not all fibroids need surgery, if they’re not causing trouble, leave them alone.
- Having fibroids doesn’t mean you can’t get pregnant, but they can make it harder in some cases.
Symptoms of fibroids?
- Heavy, painful periods
- Frequent urination
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Swelling of the lower belly
Can you get pregnant with fibroids?
- Yes! But fibroids may block sperm or implantation, making conception harder.
How are fibroids diagnosed?
- Ultrasound (pelvic or transvaginal)
- MRI Scan (for a clearer picture)
- Pelvic Exam by a gynaecologist
How to manage fibroids?
- Diet: More fruits, vegetables, green tea, and fish like tuna/salmon.
- Weight Loss: Can help shrink fibroids naturally.
- Medication: Pain relievers, hormonal treatments, or an IUD with progestin.
- Surgery: For large or troublesome fibroids (but they may grow back!)