So you are experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding and not sure about the causes. It could be an indicator that uterine fibroids have developed in your uterus.
Uterine fibroids are the noncancerous growth of the muscle in your uterus. While it is noncancerous, it can wreak havoc on your uterus. For example, it can cause heavy bleeding, pain, miscarriage, uterine cancer, infertility, and other pregnancy issues.
Vaginal bleeding is considered abnormal if it occurs:
- Between periods
- After sex
- During menstruation
- After menopause.
One of the main causes of vaginal bleeding could be uterine fibroids. However, there are several treatment options available to cure this health issue. The treatment you undergo depends on where it is located and how big it is.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Fibroids are also known as myomas or leiomyomas. More than 35% of women experience the symptoms of fibroids during their childbearing years. Also, 80% of women develop fibroids at the age of 50.
Fibroids occur due to hormonal changes, genetics, extracellular matrix (ECM), and other growth factors. According to experts, fibroids usually occur due to genetics. If your mother has fibroid issues, then there is a high chance that you will develop it, too.
For most women, fibroids causes no symptoms at all. On the other hand, it can contribute to a lot of uncomfortable conditions:
- Painful sex
- Bladder and bowel pressure
- Frequent urination
- Change in the size and shape of the uterus
- Infertility, etc.
While fibroids may sound scary, they are not life-threatening. As said earlier, these are the noncancerous growth of the muscle in the uterus and there are several treatment options available.
How Do Uterine Fibroids Contribute To Heavy Menstrual Bleeding?
Heavy menstrual bleeding lasts up to more than 8 days. However, no study claims that uterine fibroids cause heavy menstrual bleeding, but there are some theories that you should be aware of. Some of these are:
- Fibroids can put pressure against the uterine lining, which can result in more bleeding.
- Fibroids don’t allow the uterus to contract, and it becomes difficult to stop bleeding.
- Fibroids contribute a lot to the growth vessels, resulting in irregular periods.
- Prostaglandins can also cause heavy bleeding. These are elevated levels of hormones.
If your menstrual bleeding is related to uterine fibroids, it can be based on the location of fibroids, the presence of ancillary prostaglandins, and any distortion to the lining of the uterus.
Uterine Fibroids Diagnosis
If you experience heavy menstrual bleeding, consult a professional doctor immediately. While most women don’t experience any symptoms, still it is crucial to get to the roots of the causes.
The fibroid screening process includes:
- Sonogram – Your practitioner will perform a sonogram to confirm the fibroids.
- MRI – It is used to detect the total number, size, and location of the fibroids.
- Pap Smear – It is used to test cervical cancer.
Based on your condition, your doctor will recommend minimally invasive treatment to treat uterine fibroids.
Conclusion
The treatment for uterine fibroids is quite individualized. Uterine fibroids can be treated, but the treatment option may vary depending on your condition.
So, if you experience unusual heavy menstrual bleeding, consult a professional doctor immediately.