Feeling something unusual in your stomach can be concerning. Many women who experience this discover that uterine fibroids are a common explanation. While finding a mass can be alarming, these growths are typically benign, meaning they are non-cancerous. This article explains what uterine fibroids are and why they might become noticeable.
Understanding Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the wall of the uterus. They are composed of muscle and fibrous tissue, which gives them a firm texture. These growths are very common, particularly among women of reproductive age. While their exact cause is not fully understood, they are thought to be influenced by hormones like estrogen.
Why Fibroids Become Palpable
Not all fibroids are noticeable; many remain small and asymptomatic. However, certain factors can cause fibroids to become palpable through the abdominal wall.
The size of the fibroid is a primary determinant; larger fibroids are more likely to be felt. As they grow, they can create a noticeable bulge or pressure.
The location of the fibroid significantly impacts its palpability. Fibroids that grow on the outer surface of the uterus (subserosal fibroids) or those on a stalk (pedunculated fibroids) can protrude outwards, making them more easily felt.
A fibroid’s growth pattern also contributes to its detectability. If a fibroid pushes against the abdominal wall or expands the uterus, it can lead to a sensation of fullness or a visible enlargement of the abdomen.
Accompanying Signs and Sensations
When fibroids become large enough to be felt, they often cause other symptoms due to their size and pressure on surrounding organs. One common symptom is heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, which can sometimes lead to anemia. Many women also experience a feeling of pressure or fullness in the lower abdomen.
Fibroids can also affect nearby bodily functions. Pressure on the bladder can lead to frequent urination or difficulty completely emptying the bladder. If fibroids press against the rectum, they can cause constipation or difficulty with bowel movements. Some individuals may also experience lower back or leg pain, especially if the fibroids press on nerves.
Navigating Diagnosis and Care Options
If you feel a mass in your abdomen, or experience new or worsening symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is an important step. They can determine the cause of your symptoms and discuss appropriate next steps. During a pelvic exam, a doctor may be able to feel irregularities in the uterus that suggest the presence of fibroids.
Diagnostic imaging is typically used to confirm fibroids and assess their size and location. An ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create images of the uterus, is often the initial diagnostic tool. In some cases, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan may be performed to provide more detailed images, especially for larger fibroids or when considering treatment options.
Care options for fibroids vary depending on their size, location, symptoms, and individual preferences. For asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic fibroids, watchful waiting may be recommended, as fibroids often shrink after menopause. Medications can help manage symptoms like pain and heavy bleeding, although they do not typically shrink fibroids significantly. For more bothersome symptoms, minimally invasive procedures exist that aim to reduce fibroid size or cut off their blood supply. Surgical options, such as myomectomy to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus, or hysterectomy, the removal of the entire uterus, are also available for severe cases.