The Uterus: A Vital Organ for Women
The uterus is the source of diestrogen hormones, which are essential indicators of femininity. More importantly, it plays a crucial role in pregnancy, making it one of the most significant organs for women. Therefore, the uterus requires the utmost care and attention, and all women should prioritize its well-being.
The Overlooked Threat of Uterine Fibroids
Rear Admiral Dr. Sosakul Bunyaviroch, an obstetrician-gynecologist at Phyathai 1 Hospital, has expressed concerns about the rising prevalence of gynecological disorders in Thailand, particularly uterine fibroids, which are increasingly common.
What Causes Uterine Fibroids?
Medical science has yet to determine the exact cause of uterine fibroids. However, studies indicate a strong correlation with diestrogen hormone levels. Women of reproductive age, particularly those between 20 and 50, have higher levels of this hormone, which can stimulate abnormal muscle growth in the uterus, leading to fibroids.
Who Is at Risk?
Women most at risk for uterine fibroids include:
Working women who still menstruate and have never had children.
Women in menopause or post-menopause have a lower risk, as declining diestrogen levels cause fibroids to shrink and eventually dissolve.
How to Identify Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are often called a "silent threat" because more than 50% of affected women are unaware of their condition. The disease typically does not present noticeable symptoms or warning signs. Most women only discover they have fibroids during routine medical check-ups or annual health screenings. Therefore, awareness and education about uterine fibroids are crucial for early detection and prevention.
How Do Uterine Fibroids Affect Life?
Although fibroids are not a separate organ, they can significantly impact health. There are two types of fibroids:
Benign fibroids – generally harmless, with only a 1% chance of becoming cancerous.
Malignant fibroids – rare but can develop into uterine cancer.
Key Factors Contributing to Uterine Fibroids
Several lifestyle, dietary, and environmental factors can stimulate abnormal muscle cell growth in the uterus, forming fibroids. These can range from the size of a pea to as large as a watermelon.
Types and Locations of Uterine Fibroids
Dr. Sosakul explains that fibroids can develop in various parts of the uterus, categorized as follows:
Intramural fibroids – grow within the uterine muscle.
Subserosal fibroids – grow outward on the uterine surface.
Submucosal fibroids – grow inward into the uterine cavity.
Pedunculated fibroids – attach to the uterus via a stalk and may extend into or outside the uterus.
The most dangerous fibroids are those inside the uterus, as they can cause heavy bleeding. Conversely, fibroids outside the uterus tend to pose fewer risks.
Risk Factors for Uterine Fibroids
Women who may be at higher risk include:
Those aged 20-50
Those with abnormally high levels of diestrogen
Those with a family history of uterine fibroids or cancer
Warning Signs of Uterine Fibroids
Common symptoms include:
Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
Frequent urination due to fibroids pressing on the bladder
Pain during intercourse, possibly caused by fibroids in the cervix
Constipation, if fibroids press against the rectum
Abdominal bloating or swelling
Infertility or increased risk of miscarriage due to fibroids obstructing implantation or fetal development
How to Prevent Uterine Fibroids
Women can reduce their risk by:
Avoiding high-estrogen birth control pills
Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight
Monitoring their bodies for unusual symptoms
Undergoing annual check-ups, including pelvic exams and ultrasounds
Can Women with Uterine Fibroids Get Pregnant?
Pregnancy with fibroids can increase the likelihood of requiring a cesarean section. In some cases, fibroids may obstruct vaginal delivery. About 25-35% of women with fibroids experience fertility issues, miscarriage, or preterm labor due to complications with embryo implantation and uterine contractions.
What Is a Pelvic Examination?
Many women hesitate to undergo pelvic exams, despite them being the best method for diagnosing uterine fibroids and other gynecological conditions. Popular diagnostic methods include:
Pelvic exams by a gynecologist
Abdominal or transvaginal ultrasound
Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids
Dr. Sosakul explains that the treatment approach depends on the fibroid size and whether the patient wishes to conceive. Available treatments include:
Pain management – Suitable for small fibroids and older patients who cannot undergo surgery.
Surgical removal –
Abdominal surgery (Myomectomy) – Removing only the fibroid for women who want children in the future.
Hysterectomy – Removing the entire uterus in severe cases.
Laparoscopic surgery – A minimally invasive procedure using small incisions.
Vaginal surgery – Less painful and has a faster recovery, but it may be unsuitable for larger fibroids or those with pelvic adhesions.
Understanding uterine fibroids and seeking early diagnosis and treatment can help women maintain their reproductive health and overall well-being.
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Health problems in our bodies can manifest in various ways, depending on the condition. For women, abnormalities in the internal reproductive organs are particularly concerning because there are numerous potential diseases.
Uterine fibroids result from the abnormal growth of muscle cells in the uterus. They can develop outside the uterine wall, within the uterine tissue, or inside the uterine cavity.
