Treating Intramural Fibroids Effectively
An intramural leiomyoma of uterus—also known as an intramural fibroid—is a benign tumor that forms within the muscular wall of the uterus. These are the most common type of fibroid and can range in size from very small to quite large, sometimes significantly impacting a woman’s health and fertility.
What Causes Intramural Leiomyomas?
While the exact cause is not fully understood, intramural fibroids are believed to be influenced by hormonal and genetic factors. Estrogen and progesterone stimulate fibroid growth, and fibroids tend to shrink after menopause when hormone levels decline. Women with a family history of fibroids are also at higher risk.
Recognizing Symptoms
Many women with intramural leiomyoma of uterus experience no symptoms at all. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:
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Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
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Pelvic pain or pressure
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Pain during intercourse
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Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
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Constipation
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Lower back pain
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Abdominal bloating or distension
Fibroids can also interfere with fertility and increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, especially if they are large or distort the shape of the uterus.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of an intramural fibroid typically begins with a pelvic exam, followed by imaging:
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Ultrasound: The most common and accessible method for identifying fibroids.
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MRI: Used in more complex cases to get detailed images of the uterus and fibroid location.
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Sonohysterography or hysterosalpingography: May be used to evaluate the uterine cavity.
These diagnostic tools help doctors determine the size, location, and number of fibroids, which informs the treatment plan.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on symptoms, the size of the fibroid, the patient's age, and whether future fertility is desired.
1. Watchful Waiting:
If the fibroid is small and not causing symptoms, regular monitoring may be enough.
2. Medication:
Hormonal treatments like birth control or GnRH agonists can help manage symptoms like heavy bleeding but won't eliminate fibroids.
3. Minimally Invasive Procedures:
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Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): A non-surgical treatment that shrinks fibroids by cutting off their blood supply.
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MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound: A newer option that uses high-intensity ultrasound waves to destroy fibroid tissue.
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Radiofrequency Ablation: Another minimally invasive technique that uses heat to shrink fibroids.
4. Surgery:
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Myomectomy: Removes fibroids while preserving the uterus, ideal for women who wish to have children.
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Hysterectomy: Complete removal of the uterus, usually a last resort when other options fail or are not suitable.
Why Choose USA Fibroid Centers?
USA Fibroid Centers specialize in Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)—a non-surgical, outpatient procedure that effectively treats intramural fibroids while preserving the uterus. With expert interventional radiologists and state-of-the-art technology, they offer personalized care with minimal recovery time.
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