Uterine fibroids are harmless tumors that form and develop inside of your uterus. Over the years, you could have heard some widespread myths about uterine fibroids. Most of these fibroid myths are based on outdated medical knowledge or widespread myths. Therefore, it is critical for women with fibroids to gather information about each uterine fibroids treatment Houston, TX option to avoid being misled by common myths and misconceptions about the condition.
Here are common myths about uterine fibroids;
1. All fibroids cause pain
One of the top misconceptions about fibroids is that they are all excruciatingly painful. In fact, many women with fibroids don’t have any symptoms and may not even be aware of their condition until a regular pelvic examination by their doctor reveals it. This is because fibroids can be of any size or form. While smaller fibroids may also be troublesome depending on their position, larger fibroids often cause more pain. While some fibroids make individuals uncomfortable, this is not always the case.
2. A fibroid tumor is cancerous
Given that fibroids are tumors and that most people presume tumors to be malignant, it is clear why individuals might believe this gynecological fibroid myth. Most fibroids are harmless or noncancerous, yet rare occurrences might progress to malignancy. Less than one in 1,000 occurrences, according to the Office of Women’s Health, involves a malignant fibroid. The likelihood of acquiring a malignant fibroid is unaffected by having fibroids.
3. Fibroids always cause infertility
While fibroids can affect pregnancy by increasing the risk of preterm births, altering the shape of the cervix, lowering the number of sperm that can enter the uterus, or changing the baby’s positioning, they are typically not a problem because they are only present in 2–12% of pregnant women. The majority of fibroids do not become too big or create issues. If a fibroid develops, it typically grows during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.
4. A Hysterectomy is the only treatment option for fibroids
A Hysterectomy has long been the solution for many women’s health concerns, including painful fibroids. However, fibroid removal or shrinkage does not necessitate invasive surgery, and it is clearly not the best choice for many women. Women may choose to have hysterectomies in specific circumstances, but you could fall into the latter category. A myomectomy or uterine fibroids embolization are further alternatives. UFE can remove fibroids and eliminate their bothersome symptoms without the need for surgery, incisions, vaginal access, or uterine removal.
5. Fibroids only affect women in their 30s and 40s
Since studies estimate that 70 to 80 percent of all women get fibroids between the ages of 35 and 54, this misconception about fibroids is readily debunked. But, especially at any time throughout the reproductive years, fibroids can also appear in women as young as their 20s. Progesterone and estrogen levels fall after menopause, which is the only period when fibroid risks tend to decrease since progesterone and estrogen are linked to fibroid formation.
As surprising as it may sound, many women do not know what fibroids are or how they may significantly impact their lives. If you have uterine fibroids, you need the information to distinguish between myths and facts to help you make informed decisions about your health.
Call Alate Health to book your appointment to learn about fibroids and treatment options.
