Overview of Large Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids are growths in the uterus. They’re also known as uterine leiomyomas or myomas. The uterus is formed of muscle, and fibroids grow fr om it. Fibroids can protrude from either the inside or outside of the uterus. Fibroids are not malignant and do not appear to be capable of becoming cancerous. However, it might be difficult to tell if a uterine lump is a typical fibroid or a rare malignant tumor.
Fibroids are extremely frequent. Approximately 80% of females will develop fibroids throughout their lifetime, though not everyone experiences troublesome symptoms. There are treatments for fibroid-related concerns such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, and pregnancy or infertility issues.
What Determines Fibroid Size?
Hormone levels, gene alterations, and other growth variables all have an impact on uterine fibroids’ size.
Hormone Levels
Estrogen and progesterone: These hormones induce the uterine lining to thicken with each menstrual cycle. They also appear to promote fibroid growth.
Pregnancy: During pregnancy, fibroids tend to grow due to elevated hormone levels.
Menopause: When hormone levels drop after menopause, fibroids tend to shrink.
Gene Alterations
Many fibroids have gene alterations that differ from those found in normal uterine muscle cells.
Other Growth Factors
Insulin-like growth factor, epidermal growth factor, and transforming growth factor-α may influence fibroid growth.
Other factors
Hormonal birth control: Birth control medications can feed and promote the growth of existing fibroids.
Stress: Stress can cause hormone levels to surge, promoting fibroid growth.
Phthalates: These compounds, also known as plasticizers, might cause the formation of uterine fibroids.
Also Read: How to get pregnant with uterine fibroids?
Which Size of Fibroid is Dangerous and Why?
Fibroids typically come in various sizes. Small growths normally measure from 1 to 5cm or are roughly the size of a fruit seed. A fibroid is termed medium-sized if it measures 10 cm or less, or is no larger than an orange. Large fibroids can grow to be as huge as a watermelon, measuring more than 10 cm. These big fibroids may cause issues such as:
Impact on the uterine lining: Fibroids detected inside your uterus might affect the shape of your uterine lining. If not removed, they can impair your ability to become or remain pregnant.
Uterine damage: Fibroids larger than a three-month-old fetus might cause uterine injury during surgical removal, thus they should be treated before they reach that size.
Blood clots: Although exceedingly rare, very big fibroids can result in a pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung), a potentially fatal consequence.
Because untreated fibroid growth can create a variety of issues, it’s critical to begin researching treatment options as soon as you obtain a diagnosis. Once you know how big your fibroids are, you and your doctor can determine if they should be medically removed or if alternative, less invasive methods will help you get relief from your problems.
Do check: What are the Signs and Symptoms of Fibroids?
Other Risks of Having an Extremely Large Uterine Fibroid
Large uterine fibroids can lead to significant issues, including:
Infertility: Fibroids can block the fallopian tubes or affect the structure of the uterine lining, making getting pregnant difficult.
Preterm labor and miscarriage: Fibroids may raise the risk of miscarriage and preterm labor.
Anemia: Heavy monthly bleeding can cause anemia, making you feel weak and exhausted.
Uterine Damage: Large fibroids might harm the uterus during removal by surgery.
Blood clots: Large fibroids can result in a pulmonary embolism, which is a blood clot in the lung.
Rupture: Large fibroids can burst within the uterus, causing abrupt and intense discomfort.
Twisting: A twisted fibroid can obstruct blood arteries, requiring surgery.
Urinary tract infections: A fibroid pushing on the bladder can cause issues while emptying your bladder.
Also Read: 5 Must Known Facts About Fibroid and Infertility
Which Treatment is Right for You?
There are numerous treatments for fibroids, and it can be difficult to determine which one is ideal. You ought to select a treatment based on your fibroid symptoms and whether or not you want to become pregnant in the future.
- If you experience significant menstrual bleeding, consider medicine first.
- If medication is not an option for you, or you are experiencing symptoms due to the size of your fibroids, you may want to seek surgical or interventional treatments such as Myomectomy . Myomectomy is the usual surgical option for those experiencing difficulty conceiving due to fibroids.
Before undergoing fibroid surgery, consult your doctor to ensure that all other possible causes of infertility have been addressed.
Conclusion
Every year, many women receive a diagnosis of uterine fibroids. But not all fibroid diagnoses are the same. The larger the uterine fibroid, the greater its impact on a woman’s health. This is especially true for adverse effects like weight gain and uterine bloating. If you have fibroids, visit a doctor as timely treatment can always prevent any further complications in the future.
FAQ’s on Uterine Fibroid
What Size of Uterine Fibroid Is Considered Large?
A uterine fibroid is regarded as large if it is 10 cm or more in size. This is about the size of a grapefruit or watermelon.
Is a 4 cm Uterine Fibroid Considered Large?
No, a uterine fibroid measuring 4 cm is considered small.
Are Uterine Fibroids Cancerous?
No, uterine fibroids do not cause cancer.
How Common Are Fibroids in the Uterus?
Uterine fibroids are quite common, affecting 20–70% of women during their reproductive years. They are most common among women in their forties and early fifties.