Chances are that you aren’t aware you have fibroids, which are also referred to as leiomyomas or myomas. Most women don’t experience any symptoms. These fibroid cysts grow in the muscular wall tissue of your uterus. Not only are they non-cancerous, but also they won’t turn into cancer in a vast majority of cases. Women who do experience symptoms may communicate any of the following symptoms:
Heavy bleeding or painful periods
Anemia
Feeling a sense of fullness in your lower stomach
Noticing your lower abdomen appears to be distended
Having to frequently urinate
Pain during sex
Lower back pains
Complications during pregnancy and labor
Rarely, reproductive problems
There is no proof of what causes uterine fibroids; however, a clear link has been established between hormones (in particular, estrogen and progesterone) and their impact on uterine fibroids. Furthermore, the condition is found to be genetic, so if you have a close family member who experiences fibroids, you’re at a greater risk. Other risk factors include race, with African American women being more likely to get fibroids, and environmental factors such as birth control use, obesity, and early onset periods. Uterine fibroids should always be evaluated with a thorough consultation and examination by a physician for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.