Know about Fibroids

What are Fibroids?

Fibroids, sometimes referred to as “rasoli” or “gaanth” are balls of muscle that form in the uterus. The uterus is made up of muscles whose function is normally to contract during labor and result in delivery of baby. In some women, these muscles grow abnormally as Fibroids.

What are the Symptoms of Fibroids?

(Fibroids may be symptomless and can be detected on ultrasound)

• Painful periods (Dysmenorrhea) and Heavy periods sometimes causing anemia)
• Pain, pressure or feeling of fullness or tightness in the stomach
• Frequent Urination and Constipation
• Difficulty in getting pregnant

How are Fibroids Treated?

Treatment depends on the patient’s symptoms, age, whether future child-bearing is desired, size and location of fibroids.

There are a whole range of medical treatment for fibroids such as Pills, Injections & Intra-Uterine Devices. Some of these medications reduce heavy bleeding & some of them reduce the size of the fibroid.

The surgery to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus is called “Myomectomy”. It is very effective, especially for younger women who don’t want uterus removal. Older women may require a “Hysterectomy”, which is removal of the whole uterus. These surgeries can be done through Minimally Invasive routes such as Laparoscopy & Hysteroscopy.

Fibroids are not dangerous, but they certainly can reduce the quality of life. Rarely, cancer can develop in a fibroid. If you have a fibroid, or have symptoms which may be because of a fibroid, do not hesitate to visit the doctor so that you can formulate a plan which is best for you.