Category: Fibroids

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Fibroids

Tranexamic Acid for Fibroids

Control heavy bleeding from fibroids, with oral contraceptives or GnRH agonists. Another option is the use of tranexamic acid.

Heavy menstrual bleeding from fibroids is often accompanied by heavy cramping, both of which leave those inflicted, fatigued, and sometimes unable to work and fully participate in their lives.

In the earlier stages of fibroids, some physicians will try to control the common symptoms of heavy bleeding with oral contraceptives or GnRH agonists and will treat pain and discomfort with anti-inflammatory drugs. However, if this isn’t working, another option your doctor may try is the use of tranexamic acid.

For several decades the medical field has relied on tranexamic acid to help blood clot in order to reduce blood loss during surgery, or as a result of trauma, childbirth, and more. Belonging to a category of drugs called antifibrinolytics, tranexamic acid works by preventing the breakdown of a protein called fibrin, which is the main protein in a blood clot.

The history of using tranexamic acid in the treatment of heavy bleeding caused by menstruation, trauma, and childbirth, is a rather interesting one. It all started in Japan in the 1950s, at a time when postpartum hemorrhage was a leading cause of maternal death.

Utako and Shosuke Okamoto, a Japanese husband, and wife, both biochemists in Tokyo, had been working diligently to identify a drug that could reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhaging and save more women. The couple knew that there was an enzyme in the blood that breaks down blood clots, and sought to discover a medicine that would inhibit this action. What they discovered was the bleeding reduction effect of tranexamic acid.

In 1962, Utako and Shosuke Okamoto, published their findings in The Keio Journal of Medicine. Though at first, practitioners were slow to start using tranexamic acid, eventually it caught on as a useful treatment to control bleeding during routine procedures such as tooth extractions.

Following a few years of further research regarding the effectiveness of tranexamic acid, the medical field finally began to utilize this form of treatment. As a result, tranexamic acid is now used to treat bleeding-related issues in everything from that of trauma patients, pregnant women, hemophiliacs, and women experiencing too much blood loss during menstruation due to fibroid-related heavy bleeding, as well as other uterine conditions.

Though tranexamic acid is effective in controlling blood loss during surgery or as a result of trauma, the only FDA-approved usage of tranexamic acid is for heavy menstrual bleeding ( caused by fibroids or other conditions) and hemophiliacs.

Tranexamic acid comes in a tablet form and is usually taken with or without food three times a day for up to 5 days during monthly menstruation, starting on the first day of a period. These tablets need to be taken at around the same time every day of a menstrual period.

Though it is effective at reducing menstrual bleeding, tranexamic acid isn’t without its problems.

For starters, it’s expensive.

Sold under the brand name Lysteda, tranexamic acid can cost around $170 for 30 tablets of 650 mg. Not only is it a little pricey, but it can also have the following side effects:

abdominal or stomach pain, discomfort, or tenderness
fever or chills
difficulty with moving
headache, severe and throbbing
joint or back pain
muscle aching or cramping
muscle pains or stiffness
stuffy or runny nose
fatigue

Tranexamic acid also has many drug interactions that are not safe, and it can not be taken with any of the following medications:

estrogens
birth control pills, patches, injections, rings or other devices that contain both estrogen and a progestin
certain medicines used to help your blood clot
tretinoin (taken by mouth)

The Bottom Line:

Tranexamic acid is a nonhormonal option that reduces menstrual blood loss in patients with heavy menstrual bleeding due to uterine fibroids. Though it is more expensive than oral contraceptives, anti-inflammatory drugs, and hormone therapies- it is an option when those treatments are not recommended or desired. That being said, tranexamic acid may reduce fibroid-related heavy bleeding, however, it does not affect or address the underlying cause- The fibroids themselves.

In order to truly eliminate fibroid symptoms, fibroids need to be treated directly. In our next article, we will begin to look at surgeries and non-invasive procedures that can shrink and/or eliminate uterine fibroids.

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Fibroids

Oriahnn: A New Combination Oral Therapy

A combination therapy that was recently approved by the FDA for the treatment of heavy bleeding caused by uterine fibroids called Oriahnn.

In the previous weeks, we’ve dug deeper into the use of Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, and birth control in treating fibroid symptoms. This week, we’re going to look at a combination therapy that was recently approved by the FDA for the treatment of heavy bleeding caused by uterine fibroids called Oriahnn.

Oriahnn is a prescription drug, that has been created by combining three different oral therapies. These include a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist and two hormones: estradiol (a form of estrogen), and norethindrone acetate (a form of progestin).

The GnRH agonist in Oriahnn is elagolix, which causes a decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels in the body. The decrease in these hormones causes a temporary menopause-like state which reduces the size of the fibroids and the size of the uterus. It also inhibits menstruation, thus enabling women with bleeding-induced anemia, to increase their stores of iron. GnRH agonists can also improve fibroid-related symptoms such as frequent urination and constipation.

One of the problems with GnRH agonists is that the decrease in estrogen caused by them can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis.  Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens the bones, thus putting them at a greater risk for sudden and unexpected bone fractures. Since estrogens play a central role in the homeostasis of the skeleton, estrogen deficiency seems to be primarily responsible for the adverse skeletal effects of GnRH agonists. As a result of the estrogen decrease caused by GnRH therapy, bone turnover can increase while bone mineral density can decrease, thereby increasing the risk of fractures.

This is where the addition of estradiol and norethindrone comes in.

Estradiol is a type of estrogen hormone used by women to help reduce the symptoms of menopause. And, in the case of treating fibroids, it helps to prevent the bone loss that can be caused by using a GnRH agonist alone.

Norethindrone is a progestin hormone. The addition of this hormone helps to inhibit estrogen-related fibroid growth and therefore helps to keep the fibroids from growing.

Studies have found that Oriahnn is effective in reducing fibroid-related heavy menstrual periods. The combination of GnRH agonist, estradiol, and norethindrone has proven to be effective with a lower risk of adverse problems than can come from GnRH agonists alone. However, when it comes to eliminating fibroids completely- this medication can not achieve that outcome.

Here are some of the pros and cons associated with this new medication:

Pros:

Works to lighten heavy periods for a majority (7 out of 10) of women

Can reduce period bleeding by 50% after 1 month

Non-surgical treatment option for uterine fibroids

Can take with or without food

Cons:

Treatment is limited to 24 months because of the risk of permanent bone loss

Unknown if it’s safe or works for children under 18 years of age

Interacts with many medications

No generic available,  so it might be expensive

Needs to be taken twice a day

The bottom line:  The FDA’s most recent approval of the medication Oriahnn to control heavy bleeding in women with uterine fibroids, is potentially a better medicine than a GnRH agonist alone- but it is not without its problems. Oriahnn is not recommended for long-term use and it doesn’t eliminate fibroids. In order to shrink or eliminate fibroids, a non-invasive procedure such as Uterine Fibroid Embolization, or sometimes surgery is usually the best choice.

Next week we will wrap up our look at oral therapies used to treat uterine fibroid symptoms, by looking at the use of Tranexamic Acid to reduce fibroid-related bleeding.

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Using Birth Control Pills to Reduce Fibroid Symptoms

Depending on the severity of fibroid symptoms, sometimes progesterone-containing birth control can be effective at reducing them.

A class of medication that is sometimes used to treat fibroid symptoms is progesterone-containing birth control.

Depending on the severity of fibroid symptoms, sometimes progesterone-containing birth control can be effective at reducing them.

Though the exact cause of uterine fibroids remains unknown, there is evidence to suggest that their growth is influenced by hormones. The hormones most connected with fibroids are estrogen and progesterone, which are also affected when birth control pills are used.

The two main types of birth control pills are those that contain estrogen and progesterone and those that only contain progesterone. These birth control pills work by preventing the egg from becoming fertilized by the sperm. Or, in the case of the estrogen and progesterone-containing pills, the hormones are used to stop ovulation entirely. Both types of birth control pills are used to prevent pregnancy and are sometimes prescribed to lessen the severity of period-related issues like heavy periods, mood swings, and cramps.

One of the most common symptoms associated with uterine fibroids is heavy menstrual periods. This is where birth control comes into the picture.

Many physicians have found that birth control pills can help reduce the symptom of heavy bleeding and often prescribe them to women with uterine fibroids for this reason. While this may be effective in the short term, birth control pills can not shrink or eliminate fibroids. In fact, in the case of estrogen-containing birth control, the increase in estrogen can actually cause fibroids to grow.

Therefore, when using birth control to help alleviate fibroid symptoms, or as a primary form of birth control, it is important that they are low estrogen or predominantly progesterone-containing pills.

Some examples of low estrogen birth control pills are:

 Lo Loestrin FE:

Lo Loestrin provides the lowest daily dose of estrogen at 10 mcg. This birth control could be a good choice for women with fibroids because it can decrease heavy periods and reduce pain from menstrual cramps, and the low dose of estrogen most likely will not cause fibroids to grow. Loestrin is the name brand of this birth control, however, many less expensive generic options are also available.

Norethindrone Birth Control:

Norethindrone is a progestin-only pill (POP), often referred to as the “mini pill”. Since there is no estrogen in this pill, there is no risk of it causing fibroids to grow. Norethindrone can also decrease fibroid symptoms such as heavy and painful menstrual periods.

Given that some of the most commonly prescribed birth control pills out there can increase estrogen and therefore increase the size of fibroids, birth control is not always the best solution. If the fibroids are small, and the symptoms are mild, a low estrogen or progesterone-containing birth control pill may be beneficial. However, it is important to keep in mind that birth control can sometimes mask the severity of fibroids and other underlying conditions.

The bottom line, if you are experiencing heavy and painful periods due to uterine fibroids, your doctor may suggest taking birth control pills to reduce your bleeding. Though the pills may help control some symptoms of uterine fibroids, birth control pills will not effectively treat them.

Addressing the cause of the fibroid’s symptoms, which is, of course, uterine fibroids, can reduce and eliminate symptoms entirely. So it’s important to talk to your doctor about the different treatment options that are available. And, if you are thinking of going on birth control pills, make sure to keep in mind the type and any impact it could have on your fibroids.

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Fibroid Medications: GnRH Agonists

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists are one of the most common medications used to treat uterine fibroids.

When it comes to treating uterine fibroids, informed decisions are the best decisions. Therefore it is important to take a look at all of the fibroid treatments that are available. Whether it’s surgery, UFE, or medication, you and your doctor can find the one that’s best for you.

The first mode of treatment we are going to look at is a type of medication called Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists are one of the most common medications that are used to treat uterine fibroids. These medications can be taken via a nasal spray or an injection.

GnRH agonists work by decreasing estrogen and progesterone levels in the body. The decrease in these hormones causes a temporary menopause-like state which reduces the size of the fibroids and the size of the uterus. It also inhibits menstruation,
thus enabling women with bleeding-induced anemia, to increase their stores of iron. These medications can also improve fibroid-related symptoms such as frequent urination and constipation.

GnRH agonists are sometimes prescribed in order to help shrink fibroids prior to surgery.

The most commonly prescribed Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists are Lupron, Synarel, and Zoladex. Though these medications improve symptoms and shrink fibroids, they do not eliminate them completely. Furthermore, it is estimated that 40% of women taking these medications experience the side effects of hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause, which can be problematic. Other common side effects are:

– mood changes
– increased sweating
– muscle stiffness
– vaginal dryness

The most concerning side effect of GnRH therapy is osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens the bones, thus putting them at a greater risk for sudden and unexpected bone fractures. Since estrogens play a central role in the homeostasis of the skeleton, estrogen deficiency seems to be primarily responsible for the adverse skeletal effects of GnRH agonists. As a result of the estrogen decrease caused by GnRH therapy, bone turnover can increase while bone mineral density can decrease, thereby increasing the risk of fractures.

The side effect of osteoporosis is typically associated with the long-term use of GnRH agonists. However, regardless of the amount of time, stopping this form of treatment can lead to rapid regrowth of the fibroids and the uterine size. Therefore, typically the best use of these medications is usually a short-term administration of them, as a preoperative course in order to shrink the uterus and fibroids in preparation for surgery.

GnRH agonists are not the only medication that is used in the treatment of uterine fibroids. Depending on the severity of the fibroid symptoms, sometimes progesterone-containing birth control can be effective. Next week, we will take a look at this form of treatment.

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Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids

It's important to discuss the various treatment options for your fibroids.

Over the next few weeks, we’re going to take a deeper look at all of the treatment options available for women with uterine fibroids.

We will look at what those options are and how they work. As well as discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each treatment.
Some of the treatment methods we will cover are:

Medications:

  • Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists. These medications can be taken via a nasal spray or injection and they work by shrinking your fibroids.
  • Birth control: Birth control can also be used to help with symptoms of fibroids — specifically heavy bleeding during and between periods and menstrual cramps.
  • Progesterone-containing agents — pills, implants, injections, or an intrauterine device (IUD) — may also control bleeding.

Oral therapies:

  • Elagolix is a new oral therapy indicated for the management of heavy uterine bleeding in premenopausal women with symptomatic uterine fibroids.
  • Tranexamic acid is an antifibrinolytic oral drug that’s indicated for the treatment of cyclic heavy menstrual bleeding in women with uterine fibroids.

Non-Uterine Sparing Surgical Treatment:

  • Hysterectomy- During this surgery, your uterus is removed. By removing your uterus completely, the fibroids can’t come back and your symptoms should go away.

Uterine-Sparing Surgery and Non-invasive outpatient procedures:

  • Abdominal Myomectomy: Open abdominal surgery to resect symptomatic uterine fibroids
  • Laparoscopic myomectomy: Laparoscopic removal of uterine fibroids
  • Laparoscopic myolysis: Uses a laser probe to heat coagulate uterine fibroid
  • Uterine Fibroid Embolization: Small particles are injected into the arteries supplying the uterus, cutting off blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink and die.

Ultimately your treatment plan will depend on a few factors, including:

  • The number of fibroids you have.
  • The size of your fibroids.
  • Where your fibroids are located.
  • What symptoms you are experiencing related to fibroids.
  • Your desire for pregnancy.
  • Your desire for uterine preservation.

Another deciding factor regarding the best treatment option for you will also depend on your future fertility goals. If you want to have children in the future, some treatment options are better than others. We will cover this in future articles as well.

In the meantime, talk to your healthcare provider about your thoughts, feelings, and concerns when discussing treatment options. And check back next week, as we dive deeper into the first of many treatment options, medication.

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The Four Types of Fibroids

Fibroids are diagnosed by type, based on their position within the uterine wall.

Fibroids are diagnosed by type, based on their position within the uterine wall, and are typically divided into four categories. These categories are:

  • Subserosal fibroids
  • Submucous fibroids
  • Intramural fibroids
  • Pedunculated fibroids

Though these names may be somewhat challenging to pronounce, they are fortunately fairly easy to explain.

Let’s start with Subserosal Fibroids.

  • Subserosal Fibroids are located near the outer layer of the uterus, known as the serosa. This particular type of fibroid grows toward the outside of the uterus. When they are small, they are unlikely to cause symptoms, and usually do not require treatment. However, they should be monitored in case they become larger and therefore symptomatic.

The next fibroid type is Submucosal Fibroids.

  • Submucosal Fibroids are also located near the outer layer of the uterus, however, they grow toward the internal layer of the uterus, called the mucosa, causing them to protrude into the uterine cavity. These fibroids tend to be symptomatic even at smaller sizes, and can even impact fertility. However, when caught early, these fibroids can be removed, thus preventing fibroid-related issues regarding pregnancy.

Another fibroid type is Intramural Fibroids.

  • Intramural FIbroids are located primarily within the width of the uterus. Because they grow toward the outside of the uterus, these fibroids usually cause symptoms similar to that of subserosal fibroids. And, just like with submucosal fibroids, if they are too large, they can also cause fertility issues and pregnancy complications.

The last type of fibroids is Pedunculated Fibroids.

  • Pedunculated Fibroids are a variation of the aforementioned fibroid types. They grow on a stalk on the outside or inside of the uterus. When small and subserosal ( growing on the outside of the uterine walls ), these fibroids are often asymptomatic. However, pedunculated submucosal fibroids, which grow inside the uterus, can cause various significant symptoms.

The classification of fibroids is somewhat limited, in that most fibroids are big enough or numerable enough to fall into several categories. However, identifying the type of fibroids can help in the diagnosis and treatment of them. If these fibroids are significant, like in the case of a large intramural fibroid with a significant part of it being submucosal, sometimes the solution is a hysterectomy. For women of childbearing age that want to conceive, an option for them is a myomectomy. This surgical operation can remove fibroids while preserving the uterus.

One of the best options out there for fibroid removal is Uterine Fibroid Embolization. Unlike the other treatment options available, UFE targets all of the fibroids in the uterus, making it effective for women with multiple fibroids, regardless of the fibroid’s size.

The bottom line is if you are experiencing symptoms that could be related to having uterine fibroids, help is available.

The first step is to make an appointment with your doctor. Your doctor can then order an ultrasound to find out where the fibroid or fibroids are located, and what type of fibroid it is. 

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Acid Reflux and Fibroids

Americans are gobbling up antiacids at a record pace, and amongst them are many women experiencing acid reflux due, in part, to uterine fibroids.

Americans are gobbling up antiacids at a record pace, and amongst them are many women experiencing acid reflux due, in part, to uterine fibroids.

Whether it’s Tums, Pepcid AC, or powerful acid-reducing drugs such as esomeprazole (Nexium 24HR), lansoprazole (Prevacid 24HR), and omeprazole (Prilosec OTC). 

So what exactly is acid reflux?

Acid reflux, also known as Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a digestive disorder that causes uncomfortable symptoms such as:

  • Heartburn – A burning sensation that can run from your throat to the center of your chest.
  • Regurgitation of food or sour liquid.
  • Chronic, dry cough.
  • Difficulty swallowing.
  • A sensation of a lump in your throat.
  • Horse or sore throat.

Acid reflux is caused by gastric acid from the stomach flowing back up into the esophagus. This typically happens when the lower esophageal sphincter, which is a muscle that briefly opens to let food into the stomach and closes to take food inside, relaxes too often or for too long. Not only can this cause the uncomfortable symptoms listed above, but when it occurs frequently and goes untreated, it can lead to serious health issues such as esophagitis, ulcers, strictures, aspiration pneumonia, and more.

Fortunately, acid reflux, when experienced infrequently, is normal. And, when experienced more frequently, is treatable. In fact, some estimates suggest that 95% of acid reflux issues can be resolved by making appropriate dietary changes.

So this is all very informative, but what does this have to do with women with uterine fibroids?

Well, in some cases, quite a lot.

Just like pregnancy can increase the experience of acid reflux due to the uterus becoming significantly enlarged above the belly button, this can also happen due to the same occurrence- but from uterine fibroids. The expanded uterus from the fibroids, especially in the case of large fibroids-  can cause pressure on the upper abdomen which can lead to abdominal pain, pressure, bloating, and yes, acid reflux.

Large fibroids in the uterus exacerbate issues with heartburn and acid reflux by making it more difficult for the lower esophageal sphincter to close properly. And, of course, when the sphincter is unable to work correctly, it leads to acid reflux.

One way to manage these acid reflux symptoms is to avoid alcohol and carbonated beverages. As well as steer clear of acidic foods such as citrus and tomatoes. Furthermore, researchers at the Cleveland Medical Center compiled a gastroenterologist-approved and research-backed list of the best and worst foods for acid reflux.

Best Foods for Acid Reflux

  • Chicken breast – Be sure to remove the fatty skin. Skip fried and instead choose baked, broiled or grilled.
  • Lettuce, celery and sweet peppers – These mild green veggies are easy on the stomach – and won’t cause painful gas.
  • Brown rice – This complex carbohydrate is mild and filling – just don’t serve it fried.
  • Melons – Watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew are all low-acid fruits that are among the best foods for acid reflux.
  • Oatmeal – Filling, hearty and healthy, this comforting breakfast standard also works for lunch.
  • Fennel – This low-acid crunchy vegetable has a mild licorice flavor and a natural soothing effect.
  • Ginger – Steep caffeine-free ginger tea or chew on low-sugar dried ginger for a natural tummy tamer.

Worst Foods for Reflux

  • Coffee and tea – Caffeinated beverages aggravate acid reflux. Opt for teas without caffeine.
  • Carbonated beverages – The bubbles expand in your stomach, creating more pressure and pain. Choose plain water or decaf iced tea.
  • Chocolate – This treat has a trifecta of acid reflux problems: caffeine, fat, and cocoa.
  • Peppermint –Don’t be fooled by its reputation for soothing the tummy; peppermint is an acid reflux trigger.
  • Grapefruit and orange – The high acidity of citrus fruits relaxes the esophagus sphincter and worsens symptoms.
  • Tomatoes – Also avoid marinara sauce, ketchup, and tomato soup – they’re all naturally high in acid.
  • Alcohol –This has a double whammy effect. Alcohol relaxes the sphincter valve but it also stimulates acid production in the stomach.
  • Fried foods – These are some of the worst foods for reflux. Skip the french fries, onion rings, and fried chicken — cook on the grill or in the oven at home.
  • Late-night snacks – Avoid eating anything in the two hours before you go to bed. Also, you can try eating four to five smaller meals throughout the day instead of two to three large meals.

Though this list of best and worst foods is a great resource and changing your diet can definitely help- When it comes to acid reflux caused by uterine fibroids, the most effective way to alleviate the symptoms is to treat the fibroids. This can be done by removing them or shrinking them through UFE.

Bottom line, if you are experiencing acid reflux as a result of your fibroids, there are solutions. In the short term, changing your diet can be very helpful. However, for long-term relief, it’s important to speak with your doctor and find the best fibroid treatment for your particular situation.

So call your doctor and set up an appointment today- and in the meantime, maybe pass on the McDonalds, and opt for some good ole’ chicken and rice instead.

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Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Uterine Fibroid Embolization is the only non-surgical procedure to date, that can be done to remove fibroids.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization is the only non-surgical procedure to date, that can be done to remove fibroids.

So what exactly is UFE? How does it work? Does it work? And…is it painful?

UFE is an outpatient procedure that begins with the use of conscious sedation ( an IV of a light sedative) to help you to relax and remain pain-free during the UFE procedure.

Once the sedating medicine has been administered, an expert radiologist will make a teeny tiny nick in the skin ( about the size of the tip of a pencil).

They will then thread a tiny 2mm catheter through the groin or wrist. Using moving X-ray technology (fluoroscopy), the interventional radiologist guides the catheter through the artery to the uterus.

Once it reaches the artery that supplies blood to the fibroids, the catheter is used to release tiny gelatin beads into the blood vessels, creating a blockage. This blockage cuts off the blood supply to the fibroids. And, without the fibroids being able to receive vital nutrients through the blood, they can not survive. Therefore, the fibroids shrink until they are altogether eliminated.

You might be thinking, that’s interesting and makes sense, but does it work? And what does it feel like afterward?

Immediately following the procedure, it is normal to experience some pelvic pain and pressure from the procedure. Sometimes this is accompanied by an overall feeling of malaise and decreased energy levels. Basically, you might feel like you have a cold or the flu. Fortunately, these symptoms do not last long and can be easily treated with pain medicine and anti-nausea medication, which the doctor will provide.

Though there are no restrictions after the procedure, most studies have found that it takes on average, between 9 and 12 days to fully recover. Of course, the exact recovery time varies from person to person based on numerous factors such as the size of the fibroids, the number of fibroids, and the severity of pre-UFE symptoms. In general, women who undergo UFE should plan for roughly 1 to 2 weeks of recovery before returning to all of their normal activities.

Post-procedure, the fibroids targeted during UFE commonly continue to shrink for 6-9 months or longer. As the fibroids continue to shrink, it is normal to experience some bleeding in-between cycles for the first few weeks. And, the first period following the procedure is likely to be heavier and more uncomfortable than usual- but this is temporary.

In fact, research has shown that approximately 85-90% of women achieve relief from their symptoms after UFE. In fact, UFE is so effective, that less than 2% of patients will require repeated treatment.

The bottom line, is if you are suffering from the painful and life-interrupting symptoms of fibroids, it’s worthwhile to look into UFE.

UFE is a very effective treatment and is performed by our expert radiologist here at MidAtlantic Fibroid Care.

So call us today and see if UFE is right for you.

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Fibroids and Constipation

Some women with fibroids also experience problems involving their bowels, such as bloating and constipation.

Fibroids have many symptoms such as heavy bleeding, bleeding between cycles, pain during intercourse, fatigue from anemia, severe pelvic pain, and abdominal swelling. As if those symptoms aren’t annoying enough, some women with fibroids also experience problems involving their bowels, such as bloating and constipation.

So why is this?

For starters, it has to do with the location of the uterus and the fibroids. The uterus rests directly in front of the colon, which is the part of the bowels that controls bowel movements. When fibroids develop in the back of the uterus, they can press on the colon from the outside, which can lead to significant constipation and bloating.  In order to deal with this, many women will resort to taking laxatives. However, this does not resolve the underlying issue, and when taken too often, it can actually make things worse.

In addition to this, some women with fibroids need to take iron supplements to combat blood loss from heavy periods to help prevent and treat anemia. Unfortunately, iron supplements can also cause constipation.

Another issue that can result from having fibroid-related constipation, is the development of hemorrhoids.  Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum that are caused by straining in order to have a bowel movement. These can be quite uncomfortable, and sometimes painful.

If left untreated, fibroid-related constipation can create additional stress and negatively impact a woman’s quality of life. It can also lead to other significant complications. Some of which are:

anal fissures

rectal bleeding

rectal prolapse

fecal impaction.

These issues, if left untreated, can begin to impact a woman’s social life, career, and relationships, as well as overall health. Therefore, if you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor about the situation- because fortunately, there are treatment options available.

One of the most successful treatments is Uterine Fibroid Embolization ( UFE), which we offer here at MidAtlantic Fibroid Care. UFE is a minimally invasive, outpatient treatment that can shrink fibroids, alleviate symptoms, and improve the overall quality of life. In fact, most women return to normal daily activities within one to two weeks.

When dealing with fibroid symptoms, it’s important, to be honest, and upfront with your doctor. Oftentimes women will avoid treatment for numerous reasons, one being that they feel embarrassed to discuss symptoms that have to do with going to the bathroom. It is not uncommon for women to be taught from a young age that they shouldn’t talk about bodily functions, which is a lesson that needs to change.

Discussing and sharing any and all information with your doctor regarding fibroid symptoms, big or small, is a necessary form of self-care. And taking that action to speak with your physician is nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, it’s something to be proud of because that action can lead to a happier, healthier, more comfortable life for you, and in turn, for those around you as well.

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Fibroids: Does Size Matter?

Fibroids can be as small as a pea and as large as a grapefruit. Fibroids can also occur as single entities, as a group, or as a cluster.

Fibroids can range in size, from as small as a pea to as large as a grapefruit. Fibroids can also occur as single entities, as a group, or as a cluster which can also vary in size.

In fact, the largest fibroid ever removed from a surviving human weighed over 100 pounds. Yikes.

While a fibroid of any size can cause potential complications, larger fibroids are more likely to cause more severe symptoms, and can even lead to hospitalization.

In fact, one study shows that in 2017, fibroids sent over 65,000 women to the emergency room. This is a big jump from another study in 2006, which showed that just over 23,000 women visited the ER because of fibroid symptoms.

Though women dealing with fibroids of any size can end up having to take a trip to the ER, larger fibroids are more likely to cause serious complications. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Impacting the uterine lining: fibroids found on the inside of your uterus may change the shape of your uterine lining. If not removed, they can impact your ability to become or stay pregnant.
  • Uterine damage: Fibroids that are larger than a three-month-old fetus can cause damage to your uterus during surgical removal, and should be treated before reaching that size.
  • Ruptures: Very large fibroids may burst inside you, causing sudden, extreme pain.
  • Blood clots: Though it is extremely uncommon, very large fibroids can cause you to develop a pulmonary embolism (blood clot in your lung), a potentially fatal complication.

Fibroid size can also cause painful bloating, and weight gain that can contribute to a series of other health issues.

Fibroids may not be entirely preventable, but they are treatable. And the earlier the detection, the better. By getting screened for fibroids and catching them early, most women can avoid developing larger fibroids, and can do so with a non-invasive procedure like Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE).

So the bottom line is to stay on top of your uterine health. If you think you may be experiencing symptoms from uterine fibroids, please make an appointment as soon as possible. The sooner they are found and treated, the better.

For more information on UFE, please call our office today at 301-622-536