A woman’s reproductive system is prone to many diseases, which can lead to other severe complications. Uterine fibroids are one of the most occurring growths in many females. According to research, uterine fibroids are growths that develop inside or outside the uterus. However, studies and research show that uterine fibroids cannot develop into cancer cells. They are also not life-threatening, but they can cause reproductive system complications if not treated early. For the diagnosis and treatment of uterine fibroids, consult St. Louis uterine fibroids specialists since they are the best in women’s health.
The primary types of uterine fibroids
There are four major types of uterine fibroids. The type of fibroids differs according to their location. These types include:
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- Subserosal fibroids. Subserosal fibroids develop outside your uterus, and they can make your uterus appear bigger. The effect of these fibroids can be seen from the outside.
- Intramural fibroids. These types of fibroids are the most appearing. They develop inside the muscles of your uterus. Intramural fibroids can grow bigger, making your uterus shrink.
- Pedunculated fibroids. When subserosal fibroids develop a stem that supports the tumor, they are called pedunculated fibroids.
- Submucosal fibroids. Submucosal fibroids develop at the middle layer of your uterine wall. They are not more prevalent than the other types of fibroids.
According to the women’s health office, women between the ages of 30 to 50 are likely to get uterine fibroids. Below are signs and symptoms that may suggest the presence of uterine fibroids.
Signs and symptoms of fibroids
There are many signs and symptoms that you can observe and notice the presence of fibroids. Some of these symptoms are prevalent to every woman despite other underlying factors. They include:
- Abdominal, pelvic, and lower back pain
- Heavy bleeding during menstruation
- Increased cramp pain
- Increase in belly size (swelling)
- Blood clots
If you experience the above symptoms for a few days, it is vital to seek help from the doctor. A diagnosis will be made to check the presence of uterine fibroids.
Ways uterine fibroids can be diagnosed
Fibroids can be diagnosed in different ways. These ways include:
- Magnetic resonance imaging. A device using magnetic fields and computer technology is used to generate a detailed picture of your uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. Using the image, your doctor can locate fibroid’s growth inside or outside the uterus. Magnetic resonance imaging is the best way of diagnosing fibroids since even small growths can be seen.
- Ultrasound. An ultrasound device generating high-frequency waves is inserted into the cervix to generate images. Pictures can be seen on a monitor showing the shape and size of your uterus. Overgrown fibroids can be located, and a proper treatment strategy is arranged.
Uterine fibroids can cause severe uterine complications if not treated early. It is vital to get the best gynecologist who can treat both inside and outside uterine fibroids. Midwest Institute for Non-Surgical Therapy has the best doctors you can visit for fibroids diagnosis.