Understanding an Enlarged Uterus with Fibroids: Symptoms and Treatment
An enlarged uterus with fibroids can significantly impact a woman's life, causing discomfort and various symptoms that affect both physical health and emotional well-being.
Understanding this condition, its symptoms, and available treatments is crucial for effective management and improved quality of life.
If you or a loved one are living with an enlarged uterus due to one or more fibroids, our team at Georgia Fibroids is here to help eliminate symptoms and get you feeling better sooner. Continue reading to learn more about this common fibroid-causing condition.
Enlarged Uterus with Fibroids: A Brief Overview
Fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas, are noncancerous growths that develop in the uterus, varying in size from small to large and sometimes causing the uterus to enlarge.
While the exact cause of fibroids remains unclear, hormonal imbalances and genetic factors are believed to contribute to their development.
Symptoms of an Enlarged Uterus with Fibroids
The symptoms associated with an enlarged uterus due to fibroids can vary significantly among individuals. Some women may experience no fibroid symptoms at all, while others might face more severe, regular complications.
Common fibroid symptoms that might benefit from uterine fibroid embolization include:
- Menstrual Changes: Heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding is a typical symptom. Women may also experience periods lasting more than a week, severe menstrual cramps, and spotting between periods.
- Pelvic Pain and Pressure: Fibroids can cause pelvic discomfort, ranging from mild to severe pain. Some women might experience pressure in the pelvic area, leading to a feeling of fullness or bloating.
- Urinary Problems: Large fibroids can press against the bladder, leading to frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder.
- Constipation: Fibroids pressing on the rectum can cause constipation or difficulty having bowel movements.
- Back or Leg Pain: In some cases, fibroids can cause back or leg pain due to pressure on nerves in the pelvis.
- Enlarged Abdomen: A visible increase in abdominal size or a feeling of abdominal enlargement or bloating may occur in some women.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
When an enlarged uterus with fibroids is suspected, a fibroid specialist may recommend various diagnostic tests, such as ultrasounds, MRIs, or CT scans, to confirm the condition and assess the size, number, and location of the fibroids, especially if they’re directly impacting the size of your uterus.
The treatment approach for an enlarged uterus with fibroids depends on the severity of symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, and the woman's age and desire for future fertility.
Enlarged uterus with fibroid treatment may include:
- The Watch and Wait Approach: Regular monitoring without immediate intervention may be recommended in cases where fibroids are small and asymptomatic.
- Prescription Drugs: Hormonal medications or other drugs may be prescribed to help manage symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pain.
- Minimally Invasive Procedures: Procedures like uterine artery embolization (UAE), which cuts off the blood supply to the fibroids, or MRI-guided focused ultrasound surgery (FUS), which uses focused ultrasound waves to destroy fibroids, can be options for certain patients.
In severe cases or when fertility is not a concern, surgical procedures like myomectomy (removing the fibroids while leaving the uterus intact) or hysterectomy (removing the uterus) may be considered.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
Specific lifestyle changes and home remedies can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being, including:
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Regular physical activity
- Practicing relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation, to reduce stress
Get Effective Fibroid Treatment for an Enlarged Uterus in Georgia
If you're experiencing symptoms of an enlarged uterus with fibroids, taking proactive steps is crucial for your well-being. In fact, seeking timely medical advice and exploring treatment options tailored to your needs are essential.
Don't let fibroids impact your life – take the first step toward managing your symptoms and reclaiming your health. Schedule a consultation with the dedicated fibroid specialists at Georgia Fibroids today.
