Fibroids are abnormal noncancerous growths inside and outside of the uterus that occur in women of childbearing age. Fibroids heavily affect the African American and Latina community, however every group of women has a story to tell.
Although the cause of fibroids is still unknown, there exist some consistencies among those affected. These characteristics include, estrogen dominance, pregnancy, hormonal imbalance, a familial history of fibroids, and high body fat percentage.
There are several types of fibroids, named according to their uterine location that include:
- Intramural- lining of uterus (most common)
- Subserosal- outside of the uterus
- Pedunculated- a subserosal tumor on a stalk
- Submucosal – inner lining of uterus (most times causes fertility issues)
Tired of all the technical terms? Ok me too. So let’s get down to how fibroids, regardless of the type, can present themselves. Personally, I’ve experienced heavy periods, large blood clots, spotting between periods, heaviness in my uterus, anemia and bleeding with intercourse. Other symptoms include: constipation, frequent urination, pelvic/back cramping, increased clotting, infertility, miscarriages and others yet to be documented. Even with aforementioned symptoms, fibroids are typically diagnosed with a pelvic exam, ultrasound, and/or Pelvic MRI.
So how do we treat fibroids? Wouldn’t it be great if one pill would fix it all? But currently that’s not the case. Available options include: birth control pills, IUD, hormones therapy and/or surgery. Unfortunately, these options don’t guarantee that you will remain fibroids free.
Welcome to Fibroidoloy, where, as a community, we can support one another and create solutions together!
