Overview of Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors of the female reproductive system. They are formed by the proliferation of uterine smooth muscle cells and are more common in women of childbearing age between 30 and 50 years old.Most patients have no obvious symptoms, but some may haveIncreased menstrual flow, prolonged menstruation, bloating or compression in the lower abdomen(such as frequent urination, constipation).According to the growth position, it can be divided intoSubmucosal fibroids, intramural fibroids, and subserosal fibroids.Diagnosis mainly relies on ultrasound or MRI. Treatment requires observation, medication or surgery based on age, symptoms and fertility needs.This article will systematically introduce the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Causes and risk factors

The specific cause of uterine fibroids is not yet clear, but research suggests that it is related toincreased estrogen levelsClosely related, genetic factors (such as family history), obesity, late childbearing, etc. may increase the risk of disease.Data shows that about 20%-30% of women over 30 years old have uterine fibroids, and the incidence rate is higher among black women.In addition,Fibroids may increase in size during pregnancy and usually shrink after menopause.Environmental factors such as diet (excessive red meat intake) or stress may also indirectly affect hormone levels, but there is no direct evidence.

Common symptoms and complications

Symptoms are related to fibroid size, number, and location.Abnormal menstruation(such as anemia caused by excessive menstrual bleeding) is the most typical manifestation; larger fibroids may compress the bladder or rectum, causing difficulty in urination or constipation.Submucosal fibroids may affect fertility and increase the risk of miscarriage.It is worth noting thatAbout 70% of patients are asymptomatic, only discovered during physical examination.If the fibroids increase rapidly in a short period of time or do not shrink after menopause, you need to be alert to the possibility of malignant transformation (the incidence rate is less than 0.5%).

Diagnosis and treatment options

Diagnosis first choicePelvic ultrasound, if necessary, use MRI to clarify the location of the fibroids.Treatment needs to be individualized: regular follow-up for asymptomatic patients; drugs (such as GnRH agonists) can shrink uterine fibroids or relieve symptoms; surgery includesMyomectomy, hysterectomyetc., minimally invasive techniques (such as hystero-laparoscopy) are widely used.In recent years, non-invasive therapies such as focused ultrasound (HIFU) have become increasingly popular, but the indications need to be strictly evaluated.

Summary and daily management

Although uterine fibroids are benign lesions, long-term management is important.It is recommended that women have regular gynecological examinations and seek medical attention promptly if they experience any abnormal symptoms.keepHealthy weight, balanced diet (reduce high estrogen foods)May reduce risk.Treatment selection should be based on physician recommendations and individual needs to avoid over-intervention.Most patients have a good prognosis and their life span will not be affected, but they need to pay attention to their quality of life and fertility protection.

Quote sources:
1. "Obstetrics and Gynecology (9th Edition)", People's Medical Publishing House
2. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) Guidelines, 2021
3. National Health Commission's "Standards for Diagnosis and Treatment of Uterine Fibroids"