Some subserosal fibroids are pedunculated (attached by a narrow stalk).
While rarely dangerous, these growths can cause uncomfortable symptoms and interfere with nearby organ functions.
Uterine fibroids can grow as large as a watermelon.
Grace Cary / Getty Images
This article covers the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of subserosal uterine fibroids.
Age
The risk of fibroids increases with age, particularly from age 30 through menopause.
Fibroids often shrink aftermenopause.
It is rare for fibroids to develop before a person has begun menstruating for the first time.
The risk is about three times higher than average if the family member gave birth to the person.
Black people also respond differently than White people to standard medical treatment for fibroids.
This is likely due tohealth disparitieslinked to medical racism.
Hormones
Uterine fibroids are affected by the levels of estrogen and progesterone (sex hormones).
The use of artificial hormones, such as those used inbirth control pills, often slows down fibroid growth.
The consumption of alcohol may also increase the risk of fibroids.
Several treatments are available for fibroids.
Removal of the ovaries along with the uterus causesmenopause to begin immediately.
This can make cancer harder to treat.
These particles float downstream and block the small blood vessels.
This deprives the fibroid of nutrients.
The procedure causes the fibroid to soften, bleed less, and shrink in size.
The procedure is considered safe and is usually performed on an outpatient basis.
The procedure uses a machine called the ExAblate.
MRgFUS has a low risk of complications and a short recovery time.
As with any pop in of medication, always consult with a healthcare provider before using herbs or supplements.
It can be used by itself or with a standard treatment for fibroids.
Drinking green tea could be helpful in relieving fibroid symptoms.
How fast do fibroids grow?
Thegrowth of fibroidscan vary and be difficult to predict.
One study indicated that average fibroid growth is 89% per 18 months.
The study also found that very small fibroids tend to grow more quickly than larger ones.
Why do fibroids cause heavy bleeding?
Another factor may be that fibroids dont allow the uterus to contract well enough to effectively stop menstrual bleeding.
Fibroids also produce growth factors (proteins) that stimulate the blood vessels of the uterus.
This causes more blood in the uterine cavity, leading to heavier periods.
How do you deal with fibroids during pregnancy?
The hormones released during pregnancy to support the growth of the baby can also cause fibroids to get bigger.
While they are often asymptomatic, subserosal fibroids can cause pain, discomfort, and other bothersome symptoms.
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