CHECK-UP:There is a two-three fold increased risk of developing fibroids if a sister or mother has had them, writes MARION KERR.
WHEN I developed urinary frequency I was surprised to be told it may be caused by pressure from a uterine fibroid. What exactly are fibroids and how common are they?
Uterine fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) tumours of the smooth muscle cells of the womb. They are very common and may occur in up to 66 per cent of women by the age of 50.
Although we don’t know what causes them, there appears to be a familial predisposition, with a two-three fold increased risk of developing fibroids if a sister or mother has had them.
Apart from my urinary problem I have no other symptoms. Is this unusual?
While some women with fibroids have no symptoms, others may experience a range of problems including abnormal uterine bleeding.
While some report fatigue as a result of anaemia from excessive menstrual blood loss, in others the uterus can become enlarged as a result of fibroids and press on the bladder causing urinary frequency.
It may also press on other internal organs causing the pain which typically worsens during menstruation. Fibroids may also cause fertility problems.
I am booked in for a test – a transvaginal ultrasound – to confirm the diagnosis. What does this involve?
Although large fibroids can usually be detected by a pelvic examination, an additional test such as a transvaginal ultrasound may be used to determine the size and location of the fibroids. It involves the use of sound waves, via a probe inserted into the vagina.
Another test called a hysteroscopy provides a visual inspection of the inside of the uterus using a small, telescopic device.
How can fibroids be treated?
Fibroids which are not causing symptoms do not require treatment. For fibroids causing symptoms, the treatment options will depend on the size, location and number of fibroids present and whether the woman wishes to maintain her fertility. The growths may be removed during the hysteroscopy procedure or they may be surgically removed (myomectomy). Alternatively a procedure called uterine artery embolization (UAE) which involves blocking the blood flow to the main artery supplying the uterus, may be used. This causes shrinkage of the fibroid and can reduce the amount of blood lost during menstruation.
Small fibroids can be treated with a hormone-releasing device. Hysterectomy or removal of the womb may be recommended in some women.