Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that originate in the uterine wall and affect almost all women by the time they reach age 50. Despite the prevalence of the problem (a staggering 26 million women in the United States now have uterine fibroids), there are few reliable resources for managing the condition. Myths abound about the effects of uterine fibroids on fertility and the link between fibroids and cancer. That is why it is crucial for women with fibroids to arm themselves with information before making a treatment decision. You should consider working with your professional at Alate Health. Keep reading to learn about these common misconceptions about uterine fibroids.
1. Fibroids in the uterus are a normal part of female reproductive biology
This is more of an exaggeration than a myth regarding the topic. Most American women will have uterine fibroids throughout their reproductive years, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Many women with uterine fibroids are not even aware they have them, making it difficult to get an accurate count.
Fibroids in the uterus might be as little as a grain of rice or as big as a huge orange. The bigger masses, not the smaller kernel-sized fibroids, tend to draw attention. So, although it is possible to estimate the number of women who do not seek treatment for uterine fibroids, this cannot be done with any certainty.
2.Uterine fibroids are malignant tumors
Most women who hear they have uterine fibroids immediately want to know, “Are fibroids cancerous?” Thankfully, the negative response is true! There is no correlation between fibroids and uterine cancer. Uterine fibroids can diminish your quality of life. Most women with fibroids may manage their symptoms without resorting to drastic measures like chemotherapy or open surgery. Medications and less invasive surgeries may effectively cure fibroids in most women.
3. There is no other therapy available than hysterectomy
Treatment for uterine fibroids should be individualized according to the patient’s symptoms, motivations, and reproductive status. While hysterectomy (or the removal of the uterus) is the only technique to eliminate uterine fibroids permanently, there are other options for managing the condition. Myomectomy is one alternative to hysterectomy, which removes fibroids from the uterine wall. Endometrial ablation, which destroys the uterine lining to treat tiny tumors, is another (removing just the fibroids). In addition, drugs and non-invasive treatments may be used to lessen excessive bleeding and decrease fibroids.
4. Fibroids make it impossible to conceive or maintain a pregnancy
Patients often think that fibroids cause infertility. Nevertheless, not all fibroids have this effect. Several variables affect a woman’s ability to conceive and maintain a healthy pregnancy. Fertility issues are rare in women with undiagnosed fibroids. Treatment for fibroids may increase fertility if they prevent pregnancy. Many pregnant women with fibroids have no complications.
If you’re dealing with uterine fibroids, arming yourself with the facts and dispelling the misconceptions is essential. You may get the information you need about your diagnosis and treatment options from a certified expert. Schedule a consultation with Alate Health to get to the bottom of uterine fibroids.