Uterine leiomyomata, or fibroid tumors, can be completely asymptomatic or cause serious health issues. Fibroids are noncancerous tumors that develop along the lining of uterine walls. They vary greatly in size and can be smaller than a peanut or larger than a coconut. In his book, "100 Questions and Answers about Uterine Fibroids," published in 2010, Dr. Lloyd Greig writes that 50 to 80 percent of women have uterine fibroids by age 35.
Prolonged or Heavy Bleeding
Fibroid tumors can cause heavy menstrual bleeding or prolonged menstrual cycles. The blood loss can be so great that a woman with uterine fibroids may develop anemia and require iron supplements. The risk of heavy bleeding increases with the size and number of tumors. Because the bleeding can interfere with personal activities and the ability to work, many women opt to have hysterectomies, the surgical removal of the uterus. In the March 2003 issue of "Obstetrics and Gynecology," Dr. Ganesa Wegienka writes that uterine fibroids are responsible for 30 percent of all hysterectomies performed in the United States each year.
Enlarged Uterus
Fibroid tumors can greatly enlarge the size of a woman's uterus. Because uterine fibroids can grow very large, physicians will often describe the size of a fibroid by comparing it to the size of a pregnant woman's uterus. A uterus with multiple fibroids may also become misshapen, due to the location of the fibroids and their multiple sizes.
Hemorrhoids and Constipation
There are different types of uterine fibroids. Subserosal fibroids protrude outside of the uterus. Depending on their size, subserosal fibroids can press on the rectum, leading to chronic constipation and hemorrhoids. Women who take iron supplements to combat anemia due to heavy bleeding may also experience constipation due to the iron. A woman who has uterine fibroids should report any changes or problems with bowel movements to her physician. He may recommend a change in diet, medication, or in severe cases, surgery.
References
- "100 Questions and Answers about Uterine Fibroids"; Lloyd Greig, M.D.; March 2010
- "Obstetrics and Gynecology"; Self-Reported Heavy Bleeding Associated With Uterine Leiomyomata; Ganesa Wegienka, Ph.D.; March 2003
