Gynaecologist answered what complaints accompany uterine fibroids

Every girl should remember the need for regular gynaecological examinations even if she has no complaints. Unfortunately, diseases of the female organs can manifest themselves even at a very young age, so their detection should not be delayed. Lower abdominal pain, heavy and prolonged menstruation, anaemia are just some of the complaints that may indicate the development of fibroids, a fibrous benign tumour of the uterus.

The estrogen-dependent tumour can affect 50 to 80 per cent of women in their reproductive years, from adolescence to menopause. What symptoms indicate fibroids and whether they always require treatment, Angela Chaudhary, MD, head of the Department of Gynaecology and Gynaecological Surgery, told Northwestern Medicine.

Fibroids vary in size and are classified according to their location in the uterus.

Subserous fibroids - occur within the muscle wall of the uterus and put pressure on other organs.

Intramural - occur within the muscle wall and lead to an increase in the size of the uterus as it grows.

Submucosal - bordering the mucosa or endometrium.

Pedicled - grow on the surface of the uterus and are attached to it with a pedicle.

Very often, fibroids are asymptomatic and do not have a negative impact on a woman's health, but some patients may have numerous health complaints. The main symptoms of fibroids are prolonged and painful bleeding, which sometimes occurs even during the intermenstrual period, and pain or pressure that occurs when the fibroids compress neighbouring organs, such as the bladder or bowel.

In addition, women may complain of fatigue, anaemia, painful menstruation, frequent urination, painful intercourse, bloating and constipation, and pain in the lower abdomen and hip area. The presence of at least one of the symptoms is a reason to visit a specialist.

Doctor Angela Chaudhary reassures that in the absence of complaints, fibroids require only observation, and treatment may be required in case of heavy blood loss during menstruation, severe pain, or inability to become pregnant or bear a child.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL told about the serving of a notice of suspicion to a gynaecologist. The doctor is accused of making a mistake that cost the patient her uterus.