Myoma

Myoma, also known as uterine fibroids, are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They are composed of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue, and can vary in size, shape, and location.

Types of Myomas

There are several types of myomas, including:

• Intramural myomas: These grow within the muscular wall of the uterus.
• Submucosal myomas: These grow just beneath the uterine lining (endometrium) and can protrude into the uterine cavity.
• Subserosal myomas: These grow on the outer surface of the uterus.
• Pedunculated myomas: These grow on a stalk-like structure and can be either submucosal or subserosal.

Symptoms of Myoma

The symptoms of myoma can vary depending on the size, location, and number of fibroids. Common symptoms include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding: Prolonged or heavy bleeding during periods.
• Pelvic pain: Pain in the lower abdomen, back, or thighs.
• Prolonged menstrual periods: Menstrual periods that last longer than usual.
• Frequent urination: Pressure on the bladder from a large fibroid can cause frequent urination.
• Constipation: Pressure on the rectum or intestines from a large fibroid can cause constipation.
• Pain during sex: Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
• Infertility: Large fibroids can interfere with fertility by blocking the fallopian tubes or altering the shape of the uterus.

Treatments for Myoma

The treatment options for myoma depend on the size, location, and symptoms of the fibroids, as well as the patient's overall health and reproductive goals. Treatment options include:

• Watchful waiting: Monitoring the fibroid with regular ultrasound exams to see if it grows or causes symptoms.
• Medications: Hormonal medications, such as birth control pills or gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, can help reduce symptoms and shrink the fibroid.
• Minimally invasive procedures: Procedures such as uterine artery embolization (UAE), magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS), or radiofrequency ablation can shrink or destroy the fibroid.
• Surgical procedures: Myomectomy (surgical removal of the fibroid) or hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) may be necessary for large or symptomatic fibroids.
• Alternative therapies: Acupuncture, herbal supplements, and dietary changes may help alleviate symptoms, but their effectiveness is not well-studied.

Risk Factors for Myoma

Certain factors can increase the risk of developing myomas, including:

• Family history: Women with a family history of fibroids are more likely to develop them.
• African American ethnicity: African American women are more likely to develop fibroids and experience symptoms.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of developing fibroids.
• Early onset of menstruation: Women who start menstruating at a young age are more likely to develop fibroids.
• Late menopause: Women who experience late menopause are more likely to develop fibroids.

Complications of Myoma

Untreated myomas can lead to complications, including:

• Anemia: Heavy menstrual bleeding can cause anemia.
• Infertility: Large fibroids can interfere with fertility.
• Miscarriage: Fibroids can increase the risk of miscarriage.
• Pregnancy complications: Fibroids can cause preterm labor, placental abruption, or fetal growth restriction during pregnancy.