1. What are fibroids?

These are muscular tumors that grow in the uterus wall. They are also referred to as myoma or leiomyoma. Many people usually think that fibroids are cancerous, but this is not true. Fibroids are not cancerous but just smooth muscle growth. Studies show that about 70% of women are more likely to get fibroids at some point in their lifetime.

Fibroids may grow as one tumor, or they could be numerous. Their size also varies. Some of them can be as tiny as a pea or seed, while some can be as big as a grapefruit.

2. Fibroids are pretty common

Another fact that every woman should know about fibroids is that they are very common. Research by the National Institute of Health revealed that 80% of all women will develop fibroids at some point in their lifetime. Fibroids are also common in women in their 40s and 50s. So even if you find yourself with fibroids, don't think of it as an uncommon condition

3. The causes of fibroids are still unknown

There is still no evidence that points out what exactly causes fibroids. However, scientists believe that several factors could be contributing to this condition. These factors include:

• Family history
• Obesity
• Alcohol use
• A diet with a high amount of red meat

While fibroids tend to develop from the uterus muscle tissue, they have a different genetic profile than healthy uterine muscle tissue. In addition to that, they have more progesterone and estrogen receptors. These two types of hormones usually increase during pregnancy, promoting the growth of fibroids.

4. Fibroids are treatable

Some women with fibroids may not show symptoms. However, for those with symptoms, they can be treated. There are various treatment options available for fibroids. Find a doctor through uterine fibroid treatment Australia and discuss your options today. Usually, fibroids are diagnosed through an ultrasound or CT scan.

5. Fibroids may or may not cause symptoms

As already mentioned above, some women with fibroids may not show any symptoms. They usually get surprised when diagnosed with fibroids during their regular gynecological check-up. The fibroid may be felt during a pelvic exam. The symptoms of fibroids include:

• Frequent urination
• Pain during sex
• Heavy bleeding or painful periods
• Constipation
• Back pain
• A feeling of fullness in the pelvic area
• Etc…

Remember that too much bleeding due to fibroids can make one develop anemia. In addition to that, a huge fibroid that pushes the uterus out of shape can lead to miscarriage because it makes it hard to maintain a pregnancy. And if they block the fallopian tube, it may be hard to get pregnant.

6. Fibroids come in different shapes and sizes

As already mentioned, fibroids generally come in varying shapes and sizes. Some can be very small, while others can be very huge to a point that they affect the uterus shape and size. Fibroids are also categorized based on their location in the uterus. Those that grow within the uterus wall are called intramural fibroids, while those that pop out of the uterine wall are known as submucosal fibroids.