Uterine fibroids are benign tumors located on the wall of the uterus, either alone or in a group.
Also called leiomyomas or myomas, these non-cancerous tumors are most frequently encountered in women. The size of the fibroid varies, ranging from the size of a pea to that of a grapefruit.
The uterine fibroid is distinguished by its location.
- The intra mural fibroma is located in the muscular wall of the uterus. It is the most frequent and represents 70% of cases.
- The subseros fibroid grows on the outer wall of the uterus and is sometimes attached to it by a pedicle.
- The rarer submucosal fibroid develops in the uterine cavity at the level of the endometrial mucosa. It is attached or not by a pedicle.
Who is affected by uterine fibroids?
The number of women with uterine fibroids increases with age.
30 to 50% of women are carriers of fibroids.
Up to 80% of black women and 70% of white women.
There are many risk factors.
According to scientists, several factors are behind the appearance of uterine fibroids:
- Hereditary factors (from mother to daughter)
- Ethnicity
- Hormonal imbalance
- Chromosome aberration
- Age
- Early menstruation
- Obesity
- Stress
Symptoms vary from woman to woman.
For some women, no particular symptom will be noted while for others fibroids will cause:
- Heavy bleeding during and outside of menstruation
- Anemia
- Digestive and intestinal transit discomfort
- Frequent and unusual urges to urinate
- A feeling of heaviness
- Intense pelvic pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Swelling of the lower abdomen
- Infertility or miscarriage problems
As a preventive measure, it is recommended to regularly palpate your breasts to look for the presence or absence of a cancerous tumor. At night before going to bed, place yourself in the dorsal position and take time to palpate your belly in order to detect the presence of any abnormal abdominal mass.
Talk to your doctor if you have any doubts or suspicions. If you experience some of these symptoms, it is important that you consult your doctor, gynecologist or specialist. Early management is always recommended.
The information on this page is provided to you for informational purposes. In no case do they replace the advice of your healthcare professional.
