If you have been experiencing long and heavy periods, there is a possibility that you may have fibroids. They are common non-cancerous tumors that form in the uterus, and they can often cause changes in your menstrual cycle.
According to a recent study, about 59.8 percent of women with a uterine fibroid diagnosis experienced heavy bleedings.
This blog post will discuss how fibroids can affect your period cycle and what you can do to manage the symptoms. In addition, it will provide advice on when to see a doctor if you are concerned about periods lasting long.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop in or around the uterus. It’s estimated that up to 80% of women develop uterine fibroids, although not all women experience symptoms.
Fibroids can vary in size, from tiny seedlings to large masses. They can grow inside the uterus, in the lining, or attach to the outside of the uterus. They can also grow in clusters.
While most fibroids are benign, some may be cancerous (malignant). They are rare and usually only occur in postmenopausal women.
What Causes Uterine Fibroids?
The cause of uterine fibroids is unknown, but several risk factors may contribute to their development, including:
* Age: Fibroids are most common in women aged 30-50.
* Family history: If your mother or sisters have had fibroids, you’re more likely to develop them.
* Obesity: Women overweight or obese are at greater risk of developing fibroids.
* Ethnicity: African American women are more likely to develop uterine fibroids than women of other races.
How Does Fibroid Affect Menstrual Cycle in Women?
Hormones regulate menstrual cycles, and fibroids can disrupt this delicate balance. They can cause excess estrogen production, which can lengthen the menstrual cycle.
Estrogen is the hormone that helps the uterine lining thicken and shed during menstruation. Fibroids can also cause the uterine lining to grow faster than normal, leading to a longer menstrual cycle.
In some cases, fibroids can make periods so heavy that women experience anemia or need blood transfusions. It happens because fibroids can cause the uterine lining to shed excessively.
They can also cause pelvic pain and severe pressure to disrupt a woman’s daily activities. The pain is caused by the fibroid pressing on surrounding tissues or organs.
If you have fibroids and your periods are heavy or last longer than usual, you may want to talk to your doctor about treatment options.
How Can You Manage Periods With Fibroids?
If you have periods lasting long with fibroids, you might be wondering how to manage them. Here are some tips:
– Use a period tracker app to keep track of your cycle. It can help you predict when your next period will start and end.
– Talk to your doctor about birth control options. Some types of birth control can help shorten or lighten your period.
– Try over-the-counter pain relief medication. For example, ibuprofen can help reduce cramps and pain.
-Surgery or other medical procedures can be used to remove fibroids or shrink them. However, it is usually only recommended if other treatments haven’t worked.
Final Thoughts
Periods are a natural and necessary process for women. However, fibroids can cause havoc on a woman’s body and her monthly cycle when they are present. If you are experiencing heavy bleeding, pain, or other abnormal symptoms, consult with your doctor.
Throughout the year, our writers feature fresh, in-depth, and relevant information for our audience of 40,000+ healthcare leaders and professionals. As a healthcare business publication, we cover and cherish our relationship with the entire health care industry including administrators, nurses, physicians, physical therapists, pharmacists, and more. We cover a broad spectrum from hospitals to medical offices to outpatient services to eye surgery centers to university settings. We focus on rehabilitation, nursing homes, home care, hospice as well as men’s health, women’s heath, and pediatrics.
