Uterine fibroids are the most common reproductive tract tumors. Therefore, understanding the symptoms is important. Dr. James McGuckin of Pennsylvania Vascular Institute serving East Stroudsburg, Bethlehem, Limerick, King of Prussia, and Philadelphia, PA, can help you identify the symptoms of fibroid disease and learn more about its cause.
What is Fibroid Disease
Uterine fibroids typically develop as non-cancerous tumors in the uterine wall. They are made up of connective tissue and smooth muscle cells.
About 70% of women develop fibroids at some point in their life and many don't require treatment for the condition.
The size of fibroid tumors varies greatly with some women having tiny pea-sized fibroids and others having fibroids that can grow as large as a watermelon.
There are three main types of fibroids:
- Subserosal fibroid
- Intramural fibroid
- Submucosal fibroid
Subserosal fibroids are the most prevalent. Here, the tumor grows on the outer surface of your uterus. Intramural fibroids grow within the uterine muscular wall while Submucosal fibroids can project into the hollow space of your uterus.
Symptoms of Fibroid Disease
You might not experience symptoms of fibroid disease especially if your tumor is very small or you're going through menopause.
The symptoms you experience will depend on the size and location of your fibroid tumor. If you're experiencing any of these signs, it's time to schedule a consultation with Dr. McGuckin:
- Longer and heavier periods
- Bleeding between periods
- Pain during sex
- Pressure and fullness in the abdomen
- Painful periods
- Lower back and pelvis pain
- Frequent urination
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Causes of Fibroid Disease
The exact cause of fibroid disease is not yet known. However, the female hormones, estrogen and progesterone, seem to play a role in its development.
Other factors like a diet containing large amounts of red meat might also bear a relationship with fibroid disease.
Certain factors increase your risk of developing fibroids such as:
- Being African American
- Obesity
- Family history of fibroids
- Age
If you're concerned about fibroids, you should schedule a consultation with your doctor, Dr. McGuckin of Pennsylvania Vascular Institute serving East Stroudsburg, Bethlehem, Limerick, King of Prussia, and Philadelphia, PA, by calling 800-296-9294.