Fibroids
Fibroids
Fibroids (/ˈfaɪ.brɔɪdz/), also known as uterine leiomyomas or myomas, are noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus (womb).
Etymology
The term "fibroid" comes from the Latin word "fibra" and the suffix "-oid", meaning "resembling fiber". The medical term "leiomyoma" is derived from the Greek words "leios" (smooth), "mys" (muscle), and "-oma" (tumor).
Definition
Fibroids are benign tumors made of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue. They originate from the smooth muscle layer (myometrium) and the accompanying connective tissue of the uterus.
Types of Fibroids
There are three main types of fibroids:
- Subserosal fibroids - These fibroids develop on the outside of the uterus.
- Intramural fibroids - These fibroids grow within the muscular wall of the uterus.
- Submucosal fibroids - These fibroids are found in the inner layer of the uterus.
Symptoms
While many women with fibroids do not experience noticeable symptoms, some may have symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged menstrual periods, pelvic pressure or pain, frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, constipation, and backache or leg pains.
Treatment
Treatment for fibroids can range from medication to manage symptoms to surgery (myomectomy, hysterectomy) depending on the severity of the symptoms and the patient's overall health and plans for pregnancy.
Related Terms
- Menorrhagia - Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Dysmenorrhea - Painful menstrual periods
- Endometrium - The lining of the uterus
- Hormone therapy - Treatment using hormones to shrink fibroids or manage symptoms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fibroids
- Wikipedia's article - Fibroids
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