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What are Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are benign tumors that develop from the muscle tissue of the uterus. They can be found in approximately 70-80% of women of reproductive age and often cause no symptoms.

What are Fibroids (Leiomyomas)?

Fibroids are benign tumors that develop from the smooth muscle cells of the uterus. They are also called leiomyomas or myomas. They can occur singly or in multiple numbers. Their size can vary from a few millimeters to several centimeters. Fibroids are the most common pelvic tumors in women and are very common in women of reproductive age.

Fibroids are classified into three types based on their location:

- Subserosal fibroids: Fibroids that grow on the outer surface of the uterus.

  • Intramural fibroids: Fibroids that grow within the uterine wall. This is the most common type.

  • Submucosal fibroids: Fibroids that grow toward the uterine cavity. This type causes the most symptoms.

  • Causes and Risk Factors

    While the exact cause of fibroids is not fully known, estrogen and progesterone hormones are known to play an important role in fibroid growth. Risk factors include:

    - Family history (genetic predisposition)

  • Early onset of menstruation

  • Obesity

  • Never having given birth

  • Vitamin D deficiency

  • High red meat consumption

  • Alcohol use

  • Fibroid Treatment Methods

    Fibroid treatment is determined based on the size, number, location of the fibroid, the patient's age, and future pregnancy plans. Treatment options include:

    - Medication: Hormone-regulating drugs to control fibroid growth

  • Myomectomy: Surgical removal of fibroids (uterus is preserved)

  • Laparoscopic surgery: Minimally invasive fibroid removal

  • Robotic surgery: Robot-assisted precise fibroid surgery

  • Hysteroscopic myomectomy: Removal of intrauterine fibroids with a hysteroscope

  • Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus in advanced cases

  • Symptoms

    • Heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding
    • Bleeding between periods
    • Pelvic pain and pressure
    • Frequent urination
    • Constipation
    • Abdominal bloating
    • Back pain
    • Painful intercourse
    • Infertility or recurrent miscarriages

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can fibroids cause cancer?+
    Fibroids are benign tumors and their chance of becoming cancerous is very low (less than 0.1%). However, regular follow-up is important.
    I have fibroids, can I get pregnant?+
    Fibroids can make pregnancy difficult but do not make it impossible. The size and location of the fibroid are important. If necessary, pregnancy can be planned after surgery.
    What is the recovery process after fibroid surgery?+
    Recovery after laparoscopic and robotic fibroid surgery is much faster than open surgery. Generally, daily activities can be resumed within 1-2 weeks.

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