By Briana Davis, Clinical Trials of Texas, Inc.
SAN ANTONIO - Uterine fibroids are the most commonly occurring pelvic tumors found in women, affecting 20 to 80 percent of women of reproductive age. While fibroids rarely develop into cancer, they can be responsible for extreme pain and discomfort in affected women, making them one of the most common indications for a hysterectomy.
An exact cause of uterine fibroids has not been identified; however, researchers believe that fibroids may be related to estrogen and progesterone hormone levels which are highest during childbearing years and may promote tumor growths. The chance of developing uterine fibroids increases with age, especially during a woman’s 30s and 40s. By age 50, nearly half of all women will have fibroids; however, fibroids typically shrink and cause no symptoms in women who have gone through menopause. Other research has indicated that fibroids may be the result of genetic abnormalities.
The severity of symptoms related to uterine fibroids depends on several factors such as the size and location of the fibroid. Many fibroids are so small that they are only recognizable through the use of a microscope while in extreme cases uterine fibroids can weigh several pounds. Small fibroids are typically asymptomatic, while larger fibroids often result in uncomfortable symptoms. The most common symptoms include heavy menstrual bleeding or painful periods that last seven or more days, a feeling of pelvic pressure or fullness, frequent urination, lower back or leg pain, pain during intercourse and constipation.
A pelvic exam and ultrasound are the most common and cost effective ways to diagnose uterine fibroids. Fibroids can sometimes be difficult to identify, especially in women who are significantly overweight. A pelvic MRI or CT scan may also be required to confirm the diagnosis.
There are numerous treatment options available, both surgical and medical, to manage uterine fibroids. Severe cases will often require surgical methods to significantly improve quality of life. One of the most common surgical methods is a hysterectomy, which involves the removal of the uterus. A myomectomy is another option which involves selective removal of just the fibroids within the uterus, leaving the uterus intact. Less invasive procedures include an endometrial ablation which removes or destroys the lining of the uterus, or a uterine fibroid embolization which involves cutting off the blood supply to the fibroids causing them to shrink significantly.
Uterine fibroids that present milder symptoms may be treated with medication. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are often used to treat mild pain. Several medications typically taken for birth control may also be prescribed to regulate and reduce heavy menstrual periods. Additionally, drugs that decrease the production of estrogen from the ovaries called gonadotropin releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa) may also be prescribed to shrink the size of the fibroids.
If left untreated, uterine fibroids usually aren’t dangerous and do not cause significant medical problems for affected women. However, they will often cause discomfort and may lead to complications such as iron deficiency anemia and urinary tract infections. In rare cases, fibroids may also cause infertility.
Clinical Trials of Texas, Inc. is currently conducting a research study for women who have been diagnosed with uterine fibroids and are experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding. If you would like to learn more about this study, please call 210-949-0122 or visit us at
SAresearch.com.
