Fibroid treatment In Jaipur

Uterine fibroids are a very common gynaecological condition among women of reproductive age. They are noncancerous tumours made of muscle and fibrous tissue that can grow in or around the uterus. Medically, they are also known as leiomyomas. 

• Studies suggest that fibroids affect around 20% to 40% of women during their reproductive years. 
• Up to 70% to 80% of women may develop fibroids by the age of 50.
• Many women with fibroids do not have any symptoms and may not know they have them.
• However, larger fibroids or multiple fibroids may cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, back pain, frequent urination and pain during sex.
• Fibroids can develop as a single growth or in clusters. 
• They can range from a few millimetres to more than 20 centimetres in size. 
• Some are as small as a seed, while others can grow as large as a watermelon.

These growths can develop in different parts of the uterus. They may grow within the uterine wall, inside the uterine cavity or on the outer surface of the uterus.

The exact cause of fibroids is not fully understood. However, hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone are believed to play an important role in their growth. Other factors that may increase the risk of fibroids include: 

• A family history of fibroids
• Obesity or excess body weight
• Early onset of menstruation
• Being between 30 and 50 years of age

Fibroid symptoms often improve after menopause as hormone levels naturally decline.

Uterine fibroids are classified based on where they grow within or around the uterus. The four main types include:

• Intramural fibroids: These are the most common type of fibroid. They grow within the muscular wall of the uterus.
• Submucosal fibroids: These develop just beneath the inner lining of the uterus. Even small submucosal fibroids can cause heavy menstrual bleeding and fertility problems.
• Subserosal fibroids: These form beneath the outer lining of the uterus. They can grow larger over time and may put pressure on nearby organs, such as the bladder or bowel.
• Pedunculated fibroids: These are attached to the uterus by a thin stalk or stem. They are less common and may develop either inside or outside the uterus. They are often described as mushroom-shaped.

Many women with fibroids do not have any symptoms. In some cases, fibroids are discovered during a routine pelvic examination or ultrasound scan. When symptoms occur, they may include:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Bleeding between periods
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Lower back pain
• Frequent urination
• Difficulty emptying the bladder
• Constipation
• Pain during sex
• Abdominal bloating or swelling
• Difficulty getting pregnant

Heavy bleeding caused by fibroids can lead to anaemia. This may result in fatigue, dizziness and weakness.

When you visit us with symptoms of fibroids, we begin by discussing your symptoms, medical history and menstrual cycle. Our experienced gynaecologists may perform a pelvic examination to check for changes in the size or shape of the uterus.

If fibroids are suspected, additional tests may be recommended. These tests help confirm the diagnosis and identify the size, number and location of the fibroids.

These tests may include:

• Ultrasound: This is usually the first test used to diagnose fibroids. It uses sound waves to create images of the uterus and helps identify the size and location of the fibroids.
• MRI scan: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides detailed images of the uterus. It helps assess larger or multiple fibroids and supports treatment planning.
• CT scan: A computed tomography (CT) scan uses X-rays to create detailed images of the pelvic organs. It is not routinely used to diagnose fibroids but may be recommended in selected cases.
• Hysteroscopy: During this procedure, a thin tube with a camera is passed through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. This allows our specialists to examine fibroids growing inside the uterine cavity.
• Hysterosalpingography (HSG): This specialised X-ray uses a contrast dye to assess the uterus and fallopian tubes. It may be recommended for women experiencing fertility problems.
• Sonohysterography: In this test, sterile saline is introduced into the uterus through a thin tube. The fluid helps create clearer ultrasound images of the uterine cavity.
• Laparoscopy: In some cases, a small incision is made in the abdomen to insert a thin camera and examine the uterus and surrounding organs more closely.

Based on the results of these tests, our specialists create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your symptoms, fertility goals and overall health.

At the CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur, we understand that every woman's experience with fibroids is different. The size, number and location of fibroids can vary from person to person. Our specialists create a personalised treatment plan based on your symptoms, overall health and fertility goals.

If your fibroids are small and not causing symptoms, treatment may not be needed right away. In such cases, our gynaecologists may recommend regular monitoring with pelvic examinations and ultrasound scans.

However, if fibroids are causing heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, anaemia, urinary problems or bowel symptoms, treatment may be recommended. When planning your treatment, our specialists consider:

• The number of fibroids
• The size and location of the fibroids
• The severity of your symptoms
• Your age and overall health
• Your desire to preserve fertility
• Your plans for pregnancy

Medications for Fibroid Management

Medicines can help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. In some cases, they may also help shrink fibroids.

Our specialists may recommend:

• Pain relief medicines: These help reduce pain and discomfort associated with fibroids.
• Iron supplements: If heavy bleeding has caused anaemia, iron supplements may help restore iron levels.
• Hormonal medications: These can help control heavy bleeding and reduce menstrual cramps.
• GnRH agonists: These medicines temporarily lower hormone levels and may help shrink fibroids before surgery.
• Oral medications: Medicines such as tranexamic acid may help control heavy menstrual bleeding.

Our experts explain the benefits and possible side effects of each medicine before starting treatment.

Minimally Invasive and Surgical Treatment Options

If medicines do not provide adequate relief, our specialists may recommend a procedure or surgery. The right approach depends on the size, location and number of fibroids, as well as your fertility goals.