Uterine Fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop during the childbearing years. The condition of uterine fibroids is typically characterized by heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure or pain, periods lasting longer than a week, or frequent urination. This is a chronic condition that can last many years.
Uterine fibroids can cause abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pressure, and can have a negative effect on fertility. In general, fibroids that press on the endometrium can cause abnormal bleeding. When the fibroids grow larger the uterus expands and puts pressure on organs that are close by, such as the urinary bladder and the rectum. This can lead to a feeling of fullness, constipation, and frequent urination. In extreme cases the uterus can be the size of a full-term baby, reaching all the way up to the liver and diaphragm. Fibroids usually do not cause extreme pain, however, sometimes a fibroid might lose its blood supply due to rapid growth. This causes the fibroid to die (degenerate) which can be very painful. The pain will usually get better over a period of few days but sometimes requires surgical intervention. Fibroids that press on the endometrium probably decrease the chance of getting pregnant since this can interfere with the implantation of the embryo. Unfortunately, there are no carefully designed scientific studies that evaluate the effects of fibroids on fertility, however, based on the best available evidence, fibroids that distort the uterine cavity should be removed in patients with infertility problems.
To learn more about Uterine Fibroid Studies, or participating in upcoming clinical trials at GLRG contact us today at (989) 895-9100.