Fibroids are abnormal growths in or around the uterus in women. These growths consist of muscle and fibroid tissue and may vary in size. Since fibroids generally do not have any symptoms, most women are unaware of their presence inside the body. Often times, fibroids disappear over time without treatment, but in some cases treatment includes medication or surgery. Routine checkups with the top Gynecologist in Rawalpindi or your area are essential for timely detection and treatment of such problems.
Although Fibroids are a common gynecology problem, many women diagnosed with them are exposed to countless myths. Some of the most common myths associated with Uterine Fibroids are:
- Myth: Fibroids are cancerous growths
Reality: Fibroids are benign. They are not linked to uterine cancer and are often treated without surgery - Myth: Hysterectomy is the only effective treatment for uterine fibroids
Reality: While in the past, hysterectomy was mostly the only treatment for fibroids, this is not the case today. With the advancement of medical science, fibroids may now be treated through non-surgical procedures such as Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). In UFE, uterine fibroids are shrunk by limiting their supply of blood and nutrients - Myth: UFE is a painful procedure
Reality: Since it is a nonsurgical procedure, it does not involve any incisions or stitches. To minimize discomfort to patients, a light sedative is used in place of general anesthesia - Myth: Fibroids cause infertility
Reality: Asymptomatic Fibroids generally do not cause problems of infertility. In case of affecting fertility, treatment can help women in conceiving - Myth: Fibroids only affect women in their 30s and 40s
Reality: Fibroids may affect women of all ages - Myth: Fibroids can not recur, once removed
Reality: Post treatment, it is possible that new fibroids develop. Therefore, routine checkups are absolutely essential - Myth: Fibroids always result in heavy and painful menstruation
Reality: This is not always the case. Many women experience no symptoms. Many others, experience other symptoms such as backaches, constipation, and bladder dysfunction - Myth: If left untreated, fibroids continue to increase in size
Reality: It varies on a case to case basis, but many fibroids do not grow beyond a certain size. Some do not grow at all - Myth: Fibroids must be removed
Reality: Many fibroids are asymptomatic. In this case, doctors often do not pursue any treatment. If treatment is required, for examples in cases where fibroids lead to heavy bleeding, severe pain, or fertility issues, surgery is not the only option. Medication and UEF are also useful treatment options - Myth: Taking medication can make fibroids disappear
Reality: While nonsurgical fibroid treatments are an option in some cases, they may not be long term solutions. Medication such as Progesterone-based pills or shots can lessen heavy bleeding due to fibroids. Others may result in shrinking fibroids over time. However, stopping medication may result in a return of symptoms - Myth: Fibroids disappear after menopause
Reality: This is not always the case. Some women need to continue treatment post menopause as well
It is important to distinguish between facts and myths regarding Fibroids. While research may help, it is not a replacement of professional advice. It is best to consult the top Gynecologist in Lahore or one near you.
