Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that form from the muscular tissue of the uterus. Medically known as leiomyomas, they are commonly referred to as uterine fibroids. While these growths are quite common, they do not all behave the same way. Some fibroids may be only a few millimeters in size and cause no symptoms, while others can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, anemia, pelvic or groin pain, pelvic pressure, frequent urination, or complications during pregnancy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As a result, detecting a fibroid through an ultrasound does not automatically mean that surgery is required. Treatment decisions depend on several factors, including the size and location of the fibroid, the number of fibroids present, any symptoms they may cause, whether they distort the uterine cavity, the woman\u2019s age, and her plans regarding pregnancy. So, why do fibroids develop? What symptoms do they cause? Do they affect pregnancy? At what size do they require surgery? Do they shrink after menopause? Can they be treated with herbal remedies? We have answered the 10 most frequently asked questions about uterine fibroids based on current medical knowledge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Uterine fibroids are growths that develop from the smooth muscle cells of the uterus and are usually benign. The exact cause of fibroids is not known, but genetic factors, hormones (especially estrogen and progesterone), and various growth factors are believed to contribute to their development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A woman may have a single fibroid or multiple fibroids of different sizes within the uterus. Fibroids are generally classified into three main groups based on their location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These structures grow toward the uterine cavity. Even when small, they can cause heavy menstrual bleeding and, if they distort the cavity, may impact reproductive outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These structures develop within the muscular wall of the uterus. They are among the most common types of fibroids. As they grow larger, they may cause bleeding, pain, pressure, and an increase in the size of the uterus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fibroids grow outward from the external surface of the uterus. Because they typically do not affect the uterine cavity, their impact on bleeding and fertility may be limited. However, when fibroids become large, they can exert pressure on surrounding organs like the bladder and bowel. The exact reasons why fibroids develop in some women and not in others are not fully understood. While genetic changes may play a role, the hormones estrogen and progesterone are also known to contribute to fibroid growth. A family history of fibroids is also linked to an increased risk. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fibroids are most commonly found during a woman’s reproductive years. After menopause, when hormone levels decline, many fibroids tend to shrink.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not every woman with fibroids experiences symptoms. In fact, many fibroids are discovered incidentally during routine gynecological examinations or ultrasounds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
When symptoms do arise, they are often influenced more by the location and number of fibroids, as well as their impact on the uterine cavity, rather than by the size of the fibroids alone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The most common symptoms of uterine fibroids include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Heavy menstrual bleeding, in particular, may lead to iron-deficiency anemia. Persistent weakness, palpitations, shortness of breath, or fatigue may sometimes be caused by unrecognized chronic blood loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pelvic ultrasound and transvaginal ultrasound are typically the first imaging techniques used for diagnosis. These methods provide information about the number, size, and location of fibroids within the uterus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In certain cases, saline infusion sonography or hysteroscopy may be utilized for a more detailed evaluation of the uterine cavity. Additionally, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be necessary when dealing with multiple or large fibroids, or when planning for surgery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Uterine fibroids are benign growths, and the vast majority are not cancerous. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
There is a rare type of cancer known as leiomyosarcoma that can arise from the smooth muscle tissue of the uterus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, it is not accurate to say that a fibroid gradually \u201cturns into cancer.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In rare cases, a uterine mass initially thought to be a fibroid may actually be a different type of tumor, which can be identified during postoperative pathological examination. For this reason, uterine masses that exhibit suspicious imaging findings, those that enlarge after menopause, or newly detected masses during the postmenopausal period require careful evaluation. It is also important to note that a rapidly growing fibroid does not necessarily indicate cancer. Fibroid growth rates can vary from one person to another, and growth rate alone is not enough to diagnose cancer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Can Uterine Fibroids Prevent Pregnancy or Affect Fertility?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not all fibroids prevent pregnancy<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The impact on fertility largely depends on the fibroid’s location. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Submucosal fibroids, which grow toward the uterine cavity, can reduce the chances of pregnancy and increase the risk of miscarriage because they may distort the area where an embryo would implant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some intramural fibroids that significantly distort the uterine cavity are also believed to affect fertility. In contrast, subserosal fibroids, which grow toward the outer surface of the uterus, generally have a more limited impact on fertility. During pregnancy, some fibroids may cause pain or affect the location of the placenta, the position of the fetus, the risk of preterm birth, and the method of delivery. However, many women with fibroids can conceive naturally and have a healthy pregnancy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When considering treatment for a woman planning to become pregnant, the size of the fibroid alone is not the only factor taken into account. The relationship between the fibroid and the uterine cavity, the woman’s age, ovarian reserve, other potential causes of infertility, and her previous pregnancy history are all evaluated together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the most common claims found online is that “a fibroid larger than 5 cm should be removed” or that “surgery is mandatory once a fibroid surpasses 7 cm.” <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, there is no universal size threshold for fibroid surgery applicable to all patients. For instance, a 2\u20133 cm submucosal fibroid, which is growing towards the uterine cavity, may cause significant bleeding or pose pregnancy-related issues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In contrast, a 6 cm fibroid that is growing outward from the uterus might not cause any symptoms at all. Surgery or treatment may be considered particularly in the following situations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Surgical removal of the fibroids while preserving the uterus is called myomectomy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Depending on the location, size, and number of fibroids, the following approaches may be used:<\/p>\n\n\n\n may be performed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Submucosal fibroids that extend into the uterine cavity can be removed hysteroscopically. This procedure involves passing instruments through the vagina and cervix, eliminating the need for an abdominal incision. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In some cases, when patients do not wish to preserve their fertility and other treatment options are not appropriate, a hysterectomy\u2014surgical removal of the uterus\u2014may be considered. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, it’s important to note that a diagnosis of fibroids alone does not automatically indicate the need for a hysterectomy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There is currently insufficient reliable clinical evidence to support the claim that onions or similar homemade herbal remedies can eliminate or shrink uterine fibroids. <\/p>\n\n\n\n While herbal products and various naturally derived compounds are being researched, the evidence is not strong enough to recommend these methods as alternatives to standard medical treatments for fibroids. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The main concern goes beyond whether a particular remedy is effective. If an individual experiences heavy bleeding, anemia, or significant pain and relies solely on herbal remedies while delaying medical evaluation, their underlying condition may worsen, adversely affecting their quality of life. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Moreover, not every product labeled as “natural” is safe. Some herbal products may interact negatively with prescription medications or could have harmful effects on the liver and kidneys. Therefore, any herbal products being considered should be discussed with a physician.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Fibroid-related pain does not occur in a specific location; it can vary based on the size and location of the fibroid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pain or pressure may be felt in the following areas: <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Lower abdomen <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Groin <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Waist or lumbar region<\/p>\n\n\n\n – Lower back <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Pelvis <\/p>\n\n\n\n Some women may experience more pronounced cramping during menstruation. Large fibroids can put pressure on surrounding tissues, leading to a persistent feeling of fullness or heaviness. Additionally, deep pain during sexual intercourse may occur. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, it is important not to automatically attribute pain in the lower back, hips, or legs to fibroids. Other conditions, such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, ovarian disorders, pelvic floor issues, and musculoskeletal problems, can also cause similar pain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you experience sudden-onset, very severe pain, it is essential to seek evaluation. Rarely, torsion of a pedunculated fibroid or impaired blood supply to the fibroid tissue can result in acute pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A significant number of fibroids tend to shrink after menopause due to the decline in estrogen and progesterone levels. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, it is important to note that not all fibroids will completely disappear after menopause. Some fibroids may still be present, and their behavior can be influenced by factors such as hormone therapy, body weight, and individual biological characteristics. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Furthermore, new vaginal bleeding occurring after menopause should never be considered normal. It is a misconception to assume that “I have a fibroid, so the bleeding must be from that.” Postmenopausal bleeding can result from various conditions, particularly those affecting the endometrium, and it must be properly evaluated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Additionally, uterine masses that continue to grow after menopause or are newly discovered during the postmenopausal phase should also be assessed by a gynecologist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Fibroid treatment extends beyond just surgical options. Depending on the symptoms, the fibroid’s location and size, the woman’s age, and her pregnancy plans, various medical treatments or interventional approaches may be considered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Medical treatments<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are various medication options that can be used to manage heavy bleeding or pain associated with fibroids, depending on the patient’s needs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These may include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Tranexamic acid <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Certain hormonal contraceptives <\/p>\n\n\n\n – A levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system <\/p>\n\n\n\n – GnRH agonists <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Certain GnRH antagonists<\/p>\n\n\n\n It’s important to note that not all of these medications are designed to eliminate fibroids. Some treatments primarily focus on reducing bleeding and pain, while certain hormonal therapies may temporarily decrease the volume of fibroids. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, fibroids may grow again after treatment is stopped.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What is uterine fibroid embolization?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Uterine artery embolization is an interventional radiology procedure that involves selectively blocking the blood vessels supplying fibroids. <\/p>\n\n\n\n During the procedure, a thin catheter is advanced through a blood vessel, and small particles are injected into the arteries that feed the fibroid. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As its blood supply diminishes, the fibroid gradually shrinks over time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It’s important to clarify the terminology: embolization is not classified as “minimally invasive fibroid surgery.” Instead, it is an interventional radiology procedure, while laparoscopic and hysteroscopic myomectomies are considered minimally invasive surgical options. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Embolization may be suitable for some women who want to preserve their uterus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, for women planning future pregnancies, the effects of embolization on fertility and pregnancy outcomes need to be carefully assessed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Therefore, myomectomy, embolization, and other treatment options should not be viewed as completely equivalent for patients who intend to have children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Are there other minimally invasive treatment options?<\/p>\n\n\n\n In certain patients, techniques like radiofrequency ablation (RFA), which utilize thermal energy to shrink fibroid tissue, may be considered. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The most suitable method should be chosen based on the number, size, and location of the fibroids, the symptoms they produce, and the patient’s future plans for pregnancy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Fibroids do not directly eliminate sexual desire. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, some women may find that fibroid-related symptoms can affect their sexual life, either directly or indirectly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In particular, these symptoms can include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Pain during sexual intercourse <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Pelvic pressure and fullness <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Heavy bleeding <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Fatigue due to anemia <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Chronic pelvic pain <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Changes in body image caused by significant abdominal enlargement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These factors can impact one’s sexual experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Additionally, the location of certain fibroids may lead to pain during deep penetration. It is important to note that not all pain during sexual intercourse is caused by fibroids; other conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic floor disorders, vaginal dryness, infections, and other gynecological issues can also contribute to pain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n How sexual life is affected after treatment varies depending on the procedure performed and the individual woman’s circumstances. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For some women, reducing fibroid-related symptoms like bleeding, pain, and pressure can enhance their quality of life and improve sexual comfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n No. The key question in treating fibroids is not merely, \u201cHow large is the fibroid?\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n A more comprehensive assessment should consider the following questions: <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Where is the fibroid located? <\/p>\n\n\n\n – How many fibroids are present? <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Does the fibroid distort the uterine cavity? <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Does it cause bleeding? <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Has it led to anemia? <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Does it cause pain or pressure? <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Is there a plan for pregnancy? <\/p>\n\n\n\n – How close is the patient to menopause? <\/p>\n\n\n\n For small fibroids that do not cause any symptoms, monitoring may be sufficient. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The goals of treatment can also vary from person to person. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For some women, the primary aim may be to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding, while for others, preserving fertility by restoring the uterine cavity might be the priority. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Because of this, two fibroids of the same size may be managed quite differently in two different women.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A gynecologic evaluation is recommended if any of the following apply to you: <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Your menstrual bleeding has become noticeably heavier than usual. <\/p>\n\n\n\n – Your bleeding lasts longer than normal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n – You experience very heavy menstrual bleeding. <\/p>\n\n\n\n – You have started bleeding between periods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n – You exhibit symptoms of anemia, such as weakness, palpitations, or shortness of breath. <\/p>\n\n\n\n – You have persistent groin or pelvic pain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n – You notice unexplained abdominal enlargement or a feeling of pressure. <\/p>\n\n\n\n – You have newly developed frequent urination or constipation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n – You experience new-onset pain during sexual intercourse. <\/p>\n\n\n\n – You are planning a pregnancy and are aware that you have fibroids. <\/p>\n\n\n\n – You have a history of recurrent miscarriage or infertility. <\/p>\n\n\n\n – You have developed bleeding after menopause. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Please note that very heavy vaginal bleeding or sudden-onset severe pelvic pain may require more urgent medical evaluation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Uterine fibroids are common, mostly benign growths in the uterus. It’s important to note that having a diagnosis of fibroids does not mean the same thing for every woman. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For one woman, a fibroid measuring 2\u20133 cm may cause heavy bleeding or complications related to pregnancy, while another woman might have a larger fibroid that remains symptom-free for years. Therefore, treatment should not be determined solely based on the fibroid’s size in centimeters. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Not all fibroids require surgery, nor do they all interfere with pregnancy. Additionally, having fibroids does not automatically mean that the uterus needs to be removed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Various treatment options, such as medical therapies, hysteroscopic or laparoscopic surgery, myomectomy, uterine artery embolization, and certain ablation techniques, may be appropriate for different patients and purposes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n At Gynovart, our goal in assessing fibroids is not only to identify their presence and size but also to analyze their location, relationship with the uterine cavity, associated symptoms, pregnancy plans, and the patient’s overall quality of life. This comprehensive evaluation allows us to provide a suitable follow-up or treatment plan tailored to the individual. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Since fibroids can vary greatly in behavior among different women, follow-up or treatment decisions should not be based on size alone. Factors such as the fibroid’s location, the symptoms it causes, the patient’s age, and her pregnancy plans must all be considered collectively. If you would like to discuss the diagnosis, follow-up, and surgical treatment options for uterine fibroids in Ankara, please contact. Dr. \u015ead\u0131man K\u0131yka\u00e7 Alt\u0131nba\u015f.<\/a> For more information and to schedule an appointment, please visit our contact page.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Why do fibroids develop? What symptoms do they cause? Do they affect pregnancy? At what size do they require surgery? Do they shrink after menopause? Can they be treated with herbal remedies? We have answered the 10 most frequently asked questions about uterine fibroids based on current medical knowledge.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":987512580,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[919],"tags":[3111,3105,3102,3104,3108,3113,3110,1073,3112,2260,1570,1156,3106,3114,2087,3109,3107,2259,3101,3103],"dipi_cpt_category":[],"class_list":["post-987512581","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog","tag-can-fibroids-become-cancerous","tag-can-fibroids-prevent-pregnancy","tag-causes-of-uterine-fibroids","tag-do-fibroids-affect-pregnancy","tag-do-fibroids-shrink-after-menopause","tag-fibroid-doctor-in-ankara","tag-fibroid-pain","tag-fibroid-surgery","tag-fibroid-surgery-in-ankara","tag-fibroid-symptoms","tag-fibroid-treatment","tag-fibroid-treatment-in-ankara","tag-fibroids-and-sexual-intercourse","tag-hysteroscopic-fibroid-surgery-in-ankara","tag-laparoscopic-fibroid-surgery-in-ankara","tag-non-surgical-fibroid-treatment","tag-uterine-fibroid-embolization","tag-uterine-fibroids","tag-uterine-leiomyoma","tag-when-should-a-fibroid-be-removed"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.drsadimankiykac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/987512581","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.drsadimankiykac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.drsadimankiykac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.drsadimankiykac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.drsadimankiykac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=987512581"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.drsadimankiykac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/987512581\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":987512587,"href":"https:\/\/www.drsadimankiykac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/987512581\/revisions\/987512587"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.drsadimankiykac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/987512580"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.drsadimankiykac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=987512581"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.drsadimankiykac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=987512581"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.drsadimankiykac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=987512581"},{"taxonomy":"dipi_cpt_category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.drsadimankiykac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/dipi_cpt_category?post=987512581"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}5. When Is Fibroid Surgery Necessary? At What Size Should a Fibroid Be Removed?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
\n
How is fibroid surgery performed?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
6. Can Fibroids Be Treated or Shrunk With Herbal Remedies, Onion Cures, or Similar Methods?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
7. Where Can Fibroid Pain Be Felt?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
8. Do Fibroids Shrink or Disappear After Menopause?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
9. How Are Fibroids Treated Without Surgery? What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
10. Can Uterine Fibroids Affect Sexuality and Sexual Intercourse?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Is the Same Treatment Approach Used for Everyone With Fibroids?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
When Should You Consult a Medical Specialist?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n