Health Risks of Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are benign (noncancerous) tumors that grow in the uterus (womb). They are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue and can range in size from very small to large. In most cases, uterine fibroids do not cause any symptoms and do not pose any significant health risks. However, in some cases, they can cause a variety of symptoms and complications, including:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods: Fibroids can cause heavy bleeding during menstruation, which can lead to anemia (low levels of iron in the blood).
- Pelvic pain: Fibroids can cause pelvic pain or pressure, especially if they are large or are located near the bladder or rectum.
- Difficulty becoming pregnant: Fibroids can interfere with the fertilization of an egg or the implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus, leading to difficulty becoming pregnant.
- Urinary problems: Fibroids can press against the bladder, causing frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder completely.
- Constipation: Fibroids can press against the rectum, causing constipation.
- Miscarriage: In rare cases, fibroids can increase the risk of miscarriage.
If you have uterine fibroids and are experiencing any of these symptoms or complications, it is important to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can help you determine the best course of treatment.
Contact us today for fibroid screening and treatment.
Here are some references that provide more information on the potential health risks associated with uterine fibroids:
- Mayo Clinic: “Uterine Fibroids” (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/uterine-fibroids/symptoms-causes/syc-20354287)
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: “Uterine Fibroids” (https://www.acog.org/patient-resources/faqs/gynecologic-problems/uterine-fibroids)
- National Institute of Child Health and Human Development: “Uterine Fibroids” (https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/uterine/conditioninfo/treatments)
- World Health Organization: “Uterine Fibroids” (https://www.who.int/reproductivehealth/topics/menstruation/fibroids/en/)
- American Society for Reproductive Medicine: “Uterine Fibroids” (https://www.asrm.org/globalassets/asrm/asrm-content/news-and-publications/patient-fact-sheets-and-booklets/fibroids.pdf)
