Uterine fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas or fibroids, are benign smooth muscle tumors of the uterus.
Risk Factors
- positive family history
- obesity
- Vitamin D deficiency
- frequent consumption of red meat
- excess estrogen levels
- early onset of puberty
- diets low in fruits & vegetables (a diet high in citrus fruits like oranges reduces fibroid risk)
- women of African descent have a higher risk than other races
Symptoms
Most women have no symptoms while others may have:
- painful or heavy periods
- frequent urination
- pain during sex
- lower back pain
- abdominal pain
- abdominal distention
- constipation
- infertility
- anemia
- iron deficiency
- miscarriage
- bleeding during pregnancy
- premature labor
Treatment
- Treatment is typically not needed if there are no symptoms
- NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, may help with pain and bleeding
- Paracetamol may help with pain
- Iron supplements may be needed in those with heavy periods
- If greater symptoms are present, surgery to remove the fibroid (myomectomy) or uterus (hysterectomy) may be required
- Uterine artery embolization may also help
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