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Birla Fertility & IVF

Understanding Intramural Uterine Fibroids: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

  • Published on October 26, 2023
Understanding Intramural Uterine Fibroids: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Uterine fibroids are common benign growths that develop within the uterine muscle. Intramural fibroids are the most common form among the others. They have a big effect on a woman’s general health and reproductive health. We’ll go further into the realm of intramural uterine fibroids in this comprehensive blog, looking at their causes, symptoms, and several treatment choices. Individuals can make informed judgments, seek the right medical advice, and investigate treatment options that fit their unique requirements and reproductive objectives by gaining a thorough awareness of intramural fibroids.

What are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids, also called leiomyomas or myomas, are benign growths that start in the uterine wall’s smooth muscle. These growths are grouped according to where they are found inside or around the uterus, and they can range in size and quantity. Particularly intramural fibroids, which form inside the uterine wall, can impact a woman’s fertility, menstrual cycles, and general quality of life.

Causes of Intramural Uterine Fibroids

Although the exact causes of intramural uterine fibroids are unknown, a number of factors may play a role in their growth. These include:

  • Hormonal changes (particularly those caused by oestrogen and progesterone) and the impact of growth factors. These elements frequently interact to cause the formation of intramural fibroids, even though their precise causes are not always obvious.

Common Symptoms of Intramural Uterine Fibroids

Numerous symptoms associated with intramural uterine fibroids include:

  • Menstrual Changes: Prolonged periods, heavy bleeding, and irregular menstruation are common signs.
  • Pelvic Pain and Pressure: Fibroids can result in lower abdominal pain, discomfort, and a feeling of fullness or pressure.
  • Pelvic Pain During Sexual Interaction: Intramural fibroids can cause pain or discomfort during sexual interaction.
  • Problems with fertility: For some women, fibroids may be a factor in infertility or repeated miscarriages.

Diagnosis for Intramural Fibroids

Experts may use a range of examinations and imaging procedures to diagnose intramural uterine fibroids, including:

  • Pelvic Exam: Fibroids can occasionally be found during a physical examination of the pelvis.
  • Ultrasound: The uterus and any existing fibroids are clearly visible in transvaginal or abdominal ultrasound imaging.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): The uterus and fibroids can be seen in incredibly fine detail thanks to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies.
  • Hysterosonography: In order to improve ultrasound imaging, sterile saline is injected into the uterus during hysterosonography.

Treatment Options for Intramural Uterine Fibroids

The size and area of the uterine fibroids, the intensity of the symptoms, and the patient’s reproductive objectives all play a role in determining the best course of treatment for intramural uterine fibroids. Options for treatment include:

  • Watchful Waiting: Experts could advise “watchful waiting” if fibroids are small and asymptomatic rather than recommending prompt treatment.
  • Medication: Hormonal medications, such as hormonal birth control pills or IUDs, can ease symptoms like heavy monthly bleeding.
  • Minimally Invasive Procedures: Fibroids can be reduced or removed while retaining fertility using techniques including uterine artery embolization, myomectomy, and laparoscopic, or hysteroscopic surgery.
  • Hysterectomy: A hysterectomy, which removes the uterus and, in turn, the fibroids, may be advised in severe cases or when fertility is unaffected.

Fertility and Pregnancy

Fertility and pregnancy outcomes can be impacted by intramural uterine fibroids. Fibroids may obstruct implantation, foetal development, or labour and delivery, depending on their size and location. Nevertheless, many women with intramural fibroids are able to become pregnant and give birth without complications, especially if they receive the right medical attention and monitoring.

What you can ask an expert for uterine fibroids?

The following are a few questiosn you can ask an expert for uterine fibroids:

  • What are the common causes that risk uterine fibroids to develop?
  • What are the typical signs and symptoms associated with fibroids?
  • How can intramural uterine fibroids affect fertility and pregnancy?
  • What diagnostic tests are advised to detet the root cause of fibroids?
  • Are fibroids associated with an increased risk of cancer?
  • Can uterine fibroids affect the result of pregnancy?
  • Are there any lifestyle modifications or natural remedies that can help manage uterne fibroids?
  • Can I get pregnancy after uterine fibroids removal surgery?
  • Can manopause affect fibroids?
  • Do lifestyle influence the occurence of fibroids?
  • Can intramural fibroids recur aftr surgical treatment?

Conclusion

Intramural uterine fibroids are a common issue that has an impact on women’s general health, including their ability to procreate. People can choose their care in an informed manner if they are aware of the causes, symptoms, and possible treatments. Individuals can traverse the difficulties of intramural fibroids and enhance their quality of life, whether it entails symptom management, fertility preservation, or improved reproductive health, by seeking expert advice and investigating personalized treatment plans. If you are diagnosed with any fertility issues and looking for any effective treatment, call us today or book an appointment today by filling out the required details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • How common are intramural uterine fibroids?

It is most common and is diagnosed in women between the ages of 30-45 years. Therefore, it is better to get a routine check-up in order to eliminate the risk of uterine fibroid and to get timely treatment.

  • Can intramural uterine fibroid be cured with medication?

It typically varies from one patient to another based on the severity of the condition. In addition, the expert may recommend the first line of treatment, such as medication or hormonal therapy. If the medication does make any difference, the expert may advise another treatment option to treat the condition.

  • Can other signs and symptoms indicate uterine fibroids?

Heavy bleeding, irregular periods, and frequent miscarriages are common signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids. However, these signs also indicate uterine polyps and hormonal imbalances.

  • Can uterine fibroid treatments require surgical procedures?

Not really; the treatment is determined by the expert based on the severity of the condition and the size, including the location of the uterine fibroid. Though myomectomy is the most common surgical procedure recommended to remove uterine fibroids.

  • Can intramural uterine fibroids affect pregnancy results?

Yes, there is a possibility that women diagnosed with uterine fibroids may face issues with fertility. Most of the time, women with uterine fibroids feel pressure in their pelvic region and are not able to carry a full term pregnancy.

  • What is the common age for uterine fibroids to occur?

Some reports state that about 20% to 80% of women experience uterine fibroid by the time they reach the age of 50. In addition, it is also said that the most common age bracket for uterine fibroids in women is 35-50 years old.

Written by:
Dr. Manika Singh

Dr. Manika Singh

Consultant
With more than 10 years of experience, Dr. Manika Singh is an IVF expert , specializing in both male and female infertility. Her extensive career include roles in both government and private hospitals, imparting a comprehensive knowledge in reproductive health and fertility care.
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

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