Fibroids are common yet largely misunderstood benign growths that develop in or around the uterus, affecting 70-80% of women by age 50. Despite their prevalence, fibroids often go undiagnosed, especially among women of color. These growths can cause significant health complications, affecting a woman’s quality of life, yet awareness remains limited. It’s time to address fibroids as a silent epidemic deserving of more attention.
Fibroids vary in size, shape, and location, and many women have more than one. While not cancerous, fibroids can cause troubling symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure on the bladder or bowel, frequent urination, constipation, bloating, and pain during intercourse. In some cases, fibroids can even cause a visibly swollen abdomen.
There are different types of fibroids, classified by their location in the uterus. Intramural fibroids are found in the muscle wall, subserosal ones grow near the outer wall, and submucosal fibroids develop closer to the center, where a baby would grow. Heavy bleeding, often caused by fibroids, is the leading cause of menorrhagia (excessive menstrual bleeding).
The cause of fibroids remains unclear, but genetics, family history, and ethnicity are considered risk factors, with women of African descent being at higher risk. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone are believed to contribute to fibroid growth, which is why they often enlarge during pregnancy when hormone levels are higher.
Fibroids are often discovered incidentally during routine pregnancy check-ups or ultrasounds, leaving many women unaware that their symptoms might be linked to fibroids. Healthcare providers must take fibroids seriously and investigate when symptoms like heavy bleeding or pelvic pain are reported.
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms. Asymptomatic or mild fibroids may require monitoring through ultrasound, while more severe cases may involve medications to shrink fibroids, though these can have side effects like hot flashes and bone loss. Surgical treatments like myomectomy (fibroid removal) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) are options for more serious cases, and uterine artery embolization, a less invasive procedure, can block blood flow to the fibroids.
Fibroids can complicate pregnancy, increasing the risk of miscarriage, preterm labor, and delivery complications. They can also hinder conception, and if they grow too rapidly during pregnancy, they may cause a painful condition known as “red degeneration,” which leads to fever, vomiting, and intense pain.
Despite available treatments, many women remain unaware of fibroids and their potential consequences. The stigma around menstrual health and pregnancy issues further silences the conversation, delaying diagnosis and care. Raising awareness, educating women, and improving access to resources is crucial for managing this condition.
Fibroids affect millions of women, yet they are often overlooked. It’s time to rethink fibroids as a serious health issue and provide the focus and resources needed to improve the lives of those affected.
Dr. David Hall is the owner of Hall Chiropractic Center. With over 40 years of experience, Dr. Hall is proud to serve the residents of Tega Cay and Fort Mill.
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