Uterine fibroids are the tumor-like growth of the uterine cells in the female body which are non-cancerous in nature. It is mostly present in females of child bearing age. This is also known as leiomyomas. Uterine fibroids are not the risk factors of uterine cancer and it almost never develops into cancer. There can be one uterine fibroid or number of uterine fibroids present of either a very small size or larger size that can enlarge the size of the uterus. In rare cases, the uterine fibroids can become so large that it enters the rib cage and causes further complications. Uterine fibroids in the initial stage cause no symptoms so it may be difficult to know about the presence of uterine fibroids. Many women may find the uterine fibroids in their uterus during the examination of the pelvic region due to other reasons. Symptomatic uterine fibroids show the symptoms according to the size and location of the fibroids. There are different types of uterine fibroids according to the location. The Intramural fibroids that grow within the muscular wall of the uterus. Submucosal fibroids bulge in the cavity of the uterus. Subserosal fibroids appear on the outside of the wall of the uterus. Although the uterine fibroids are not risky, they can cause some complications like discomfort and bleeding that can lead to decreased red blood cells in the body. So medical or surgical treatment should be done to treat uterine fibroids.
Types of Obstetrics And Gynaecology Uterine Fibroids Treatment India
Some common treatments used for uterine fibroid are:
- Watchful waiting
- Medications
- Uterine fibroid embolization
- Myomectomy
- Hysterectomy
- Ultrasound Surgery
Watchful Waiting
If the fibroids are small and not causing any symptoms, a watchful waiting approach may be used. In this time period, regular monitoring is performed to check the size of fibroids and the involvement of surrounding structures.
Medications
Some specific medications are also used for the treatment of uterine fibroids. Some of these medications are:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These can help to manage pain and reduce menstrual cramping.
- Hormonal birth control: Oral contraceptives, hormonal patches, or intrauterine devices are used to control the heavy menstrual bleeding. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists: These medications cause the effect of a temporary menopause-like state, which shrinks the fibroids and reduces symptoms.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization
The uterine fibroid embolization procedure involves blocking the blood vessels that supply the fibroids and. Less supply of blood causes them to shrink. It is used to treat the symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pain.
Myomectomy
Myomectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of fibroids. It is used for women who want to be fertile.
Hysterectomy
Hysterectomy involves the removal of the uterus and is considered the definitive treatment for uterine fibroids. But it is not suitable for women who have not completed their family or when the size of fibroid is too large and causes severe complications.
Ultrasound Surgery
The ultrasound waves are used in this surgery to destroy the uterine fibroids. It is very effective in reducing symptoms but is not suitable for every woman.
Diagnosis of Obstetrics And Gynaecology Uterine Fibroids Treatment India
Following are the ways to diagnose the uterine fibroids:
Medical History
The doctor makes the diagnosis after suspecting the uterine fibroids according to the symptoms, menstrual cycle, and the past medical history.
Physical Examination
The doctor will perform a physical examination which also includes a pelvic examination. The doctor feels for any abnormalities in the uterus during examination. Enlarged areas can be detected in physical examination.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests, such as ultrasound, are commonly used to see the clear picture of the uterus. According to the picture, doctors can detect the presence of fibroids. Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the uterus. It also detects the size, location and nature of uterine fibroids.
Other Imaging Techniques
Some of the advanced imaging techniques like MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) or CT (Computed Tomography) scans may be used for more clear pictures and detailed information about the fibroids. It is also used when the surgery is recommended for the removal of uterine fibroids.
Cost of Uterine Fibroids Treatment in India
The cost of uterine fibroids treatment in India ranges from 1000 USD to 3000 USD. The cost may vary according to the hospitals’ facilities, type of treatment procedure performed and the complications during or after the surgical procedure.
Cost of different Uterine Fibroid Treatments in India:
- Fibroid Removal Surgery 1066 USD 1420 USD
- Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) 1598 USD 2131 USD
Symptoms and Risk factors
Some common symptoms of uterine fibroids are:
- Heavy bleeding during menstruation
- Prolonged menstrual periods
- Severe menstrual cramps
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Increase frequency of urination
- Difficulty in emptying the urinary bladder completely
- Constipation
- Bloating
- Back or leg pain
- Painful intercourse
- Enlarged abdomen or uterus
- Anemia due to heavy bleeding
- Abdominal or pelvic swelling
- Painful bowel movements
- Infertility
- Miscarriages or pregnancy complications
Risk Factors for Uterine Fibroids
Age
Uterine fibroids are most likely to develop in the child bearing age. It is mostly present in the women of age group 30 to 45 years. After menopause, the risk of uterine fibroids decreases.
Hormonal Factors
The conditions in which there is increased production of estrogen and progesterone hormones, are more susceptible to cause the uterine fibroids. It is mostly present in hormone replacement therapy and pregnancy.
Ethnicity
African women are more likely to develop uterine fibroids than any other ethnicity. They also have more severe symptoms associated with uterine fibroids.
Obesity
The overweight or obese women usually have an increased risk of uterine fibroids. Excess of weight can lead to imbalance of hormones that increases the susceptibility of uterine fibroids.
Nulliparity
Women with no child are more prone to develop the uterine fibroids. Pregnancy and childbirth have the protective effect against uterine fibroids.
Hypertension
There is a positive correlation between high blood pressure and the development of fibroids in the uterine cavity.
Lifestyle
Sedentary lifestyle with no physical activity, a diet high in red meat and low in fruits and vegetables, and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of uterine fibroids.
