Fibroid degeneration takes place if a uterine fibroid outgrows its limited blood supply and begins to die.
Fibroids are benign uterine growths made of smooth muscle cells and fibrous tissue.
Some people experience pain and bleeding with fibroids, while others experience their first symptoms when the fibroids degenerate.
Grace Cary / Getty Images
Grace Cary / Getty Images
What Is Fibroid Degeneration?
When fibroids grow too large, the body can no longer provide them with enough nutrients to sustain them.
They then begin to break down in a process called fibroid degeneration.
Symptoms
You may not be aware you have fibroids as many people have nosymptoms.
The size and location of uterine fibroids usually determine whether or not you will develop symptoms.
For some people, a degenerating fibroid is what first draws attention to their fibroids.
How long does fibroid degeneration take?
Unfortunately, theres no simple answer as to how long fibroid degeneration can take.
In these cases, the stalk can become twisted, cutting off the blood supply to the fibroid.
If this occurs, not only is the pain intense, but it lasts longer than a normal degeneration.
In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the fibroid.
Increases in estrogen during pregnancy can increase the chances of fibroid growth.
Fibroid Degeneration in Pregnancy
Fibroid enlargement may be influenced by increased estrogen levels during pregnancy.
The larger the fibroid, the more likely it is that fibroid degeneration will occur.
Large fibroids outgrow their blood supply.
Even more, the growing uterus may distort and kink blood vessels, compromising the fibroid’s blood supply.
It may be a troublesome cause of pregnancy complications, such as severe pain, in many women.
Is Fibroid Degeneration a Good Thing?
Diagnosis
The first signs of fibroids may be detected during a routine pelvic exam.
Pain medication may provide relief for a few days or weeks until the pain subsides.
There are many treatment options for fibroids so ensure you discuss all your options with your healthcare provider.
When this happens, the fibroid undergoes a process of breaking down called fibroid degeneration.
This process can cause symptoms like severe abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, and fever.
Fibroid degeneration is usually treated with home remedies such as heating pads or massage.
Pain-relieving medication can also help.
Ask your healthcare provider about treatments for the fibroids themselves, such as birth control pills or surgery.
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