Uterine fibroids are tumors which are found on the uterus or womb of woman. They are made of similar muscle fibers of the wall of the uterus only a way denser. These tumors are usually benign and are partly or completely round in appearance. They are present in almost 50% of the female population but in most cases stay undiagnosed for life.
The exact cause for the growth of uterine fibroids is still unknown. But it may be due to various reasons like genetic deformity, modification in growth, defect in the blood vessel or reaction of the tissues to some injury etc. It has been seen that a woman with a family history of uterine fibroid is more prone to the development of this tumor. It can be also associated with certain race. For some unknown reasons, African women are more susceptible to have these fibroids even in their young age in comparison to Caucasian women who usually develop them at their middle age. It is also seen more in women who suffer from hypertension or uterine infection and who had their first periods before the age of 10.
In most cases, women are absolutely unaware of the presence of any tumor as generally they are benign and have no or very mild symptoms. Such uncomplicated fibroids need no treatment but only occasional visits to the physician. They are usually detected during prenatal tests or routine gynecological check-ups. But few women do show serious and painful uterine fibroids symptoms like painful and heavy menstrual bleeding, heaviness in the lower abdomen, frequent urination and pain in the lower back. Other uterine fibroids symptoms include pain during sexual intercourse and bleeding even after the menstrual cycle is over.
A uterus of an average size is located below the pelvic bone and near the urinary bladder. Any growth in the uterus might create pressure on the rectum or bladder. However no damage is caused to the organs but the patient may feel constipated and find it difficult to control the urge to urinate. For the same reason, pain may be felt during or after intercourse. If the uterus grows big enough, it may show a swelling in the lower abdomen much like a pregnant woman. This is one of the visible uterine fibroids symptoms. Expanded uterus may not be dangerous but is highly noticeable and uncomfortable. Fibroids need oxygen and blood like any other living tissue to survive. If the blood vessels cannot supply enough blood to a quick growing fibroid, it suffers from cell death. The dead cells may release certain chemical substances, which causes the uterus to swell and be painful. Under mild pain, hot water bags may give momentary relief but severe pain requires removal of the dead or dying tumor by means of surgery.
Uterine fibroids may occur in women of any age once they are reproductively active. Reproductive dysfunction like infertility, frequent miscarriages or onset of untimely labor may be considered as uterine fibroids symptoms. But once the tumor is surgically removed, fertility is usually reinstated.