Fibroids

Fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause a range of symptoms, including heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and difficulty getting pregnant. It's estimated that up to 80% of women will develop fibroids by the age of 50. While most fibroids don't cause any symptoms, they can be a significant source of discomfort for some women. The location of the fibroids can affect the type and severity of symptoms a woman experiences.

Symptoms:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding: Fibroids can cause heavy or prolonged periods, which may require frequent changes of tampons or pads.
• Pelvic pain: Fibroids can cause pelvic pain or pressure, which may be especially noticeable during sexual intercourse.
• Abdominal swelling: Large fibroids can cause the abdomen to become enlarged or swollen, which may be mistaken for pregnancy.
• Frequent urination: Fibroids can press on the bladder and cause a need to urinate more frequently or urgently.
• Constipation: Fibroids can press on the rectum and cause constipation or difficulty passing stool.
• Back or leg pain: Fibroids can cause pain in the lower back or legs, which may be caused by pressure on nerves or blood vessels.
• Infertility: Fibroids can sometimes interfere with fertility by blocking the fallopian tubes or changing the shape of the uterus.

Causes

• Genetic factors: Fibroids can run in families, and some women may have a genetic predisposition to developing them.
• Age: Fibroids typically develop during a woman's reproductive years and tend to shrink after menopause.
• Hormonal imbalances: An imbalance in the hormone’s estrogen and progesterone, which can occur during pregnancy, perimenopause, or other hormonal changes, may contribute to the growth of fibroids.
• Obesity: Women who are overweight or obese may be at higher risk for developing fibroids.

Environmental factors: Exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants may contribute to the development of fibroids, although more research is needed to understand this link.