Fibroids: What are they and what do you need to know about them!
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Fibroids are basically tumors that develop in the uterus and are made up of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissues. The most important characteristic of fibroids is that they are mostly benign or noncancerous. They grow at different rates and a woman can have more than one fibroid at a given time. They can range from a size of a pea to the size of a watermelon. They can grow or shrink over time.
They are most common between the age of 30-40 and many women who have fibroids but do not even notice them. However, the cause of the formation of fibroids is still unknown, they are often formed due to increased estrogen levels in women.
Classification
However all fibroids are the same, they can be classified into different types depending upon their location:
- 1. Intramural fibroids - they are one of the most common types of fibroids and are ound in the wall of the uterus
- 2. Subserosal - they are found on the outside of the uterus
- 3. Pedunculated fibroids - they are basically subserosal fibroids who have now develpeed a slender base and now look like a stem
- 4. Submucosal fibroids - they are the least common types of fibroid and they appear in the middle muscle layer of the uterus
In most of the cases, fibroids do not interfere with women’s health, but when they do, they can cause:
1. Longer than usual periods
2. Painful periods
3. Painful intercourse
4. Lower backpain
5. Swelling in abdomen
Some women can even face issues fertility issues due to fibroids. They can also cause problems during pregnancy or labor.
Who is at the risk of getting fibroids?
While there is no hit and fast rule around who can or who cannot get fibroids, below are a few factors that can have an impact on the chances:-
1. Age: fibroids are most common in women eho are in their 30s and 40s. After menopause they usually shrink if they are present or are very much likely to even form if not present
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2. Family history: Having a family member who has fibroids increases your chance sof having them. Hence, if your mother or any other woman in family tree had fibroids, it is advisable to watch out for them and follow a healthy lifestyle with a healthy diet plan.
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3. Obesity: Overweight women are at a higher risk of getting fibroids. So mange your weight and follow healthy women care practices
How are fibroids diagnosed?
Ultrasound and MRIs are two of the most common tests that can detect fibroids. Apart from that, your doctor can also opt for a hysteroscopy or laparoscopy. It depends on your symptoms and your doctor.
What is the treatment of fibroids?
Many fibroids do not cause any problem, but if they are causing uncontrollable symptoms then your doctor can opt for medication. There is also a possibility of a surgery if the fibroids do not react to the treatment and keep on causing havoc! Now that you have some idea about fibroids, allow us to give you a few suggestions to practice a healthier lifestyle, because only then your body will get strong enough to fight out such battles. Follow the best diet plan for your body, get proper sleep and exercise regularly.
You can even checkout andMe’s Women wellness range and pick the products which match your requirements. All of them are carefully made with a lot of love for your body to feel perfect!
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