Fibroid Awareness Week: 5 important things women should know about condition causing infertility
The annual Fibroid Awareness Week is held from April 18 to 24. This week is designated to demonstrate support for all women who have fibroids. These are non-cancerous growths that form in the uterus's muscular wall. A small fibroid may not cause any issues during pregnancy, while larger ones could potentially lead to complications such as miscarriage, preterm labor, or even infertility in some cases.
This commemoration's goal is to increase public awareness of a prevalent but under-discussed health issue that affects 20% to 80% of women by the time they reach the age of 50. Risk factors for fibroids include age, family history, ethnic origin, obesity, and eating habits, including ingesting too much red meat.
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Importance of Fibroid Awareness Week
The importance of Fibroid Awareness Week cannot be overstated. It is an essential event because it helps raise awareness about a condition that affects a significant number of women worldwide. During this week, people learn about the symptoms, causes, and treatment options available for fibroids.
Additionally, it provides an opportunity to share information, experiences, and support with fellow women who are going through or have undergone treating fibroids. Education and awareness can help reduce the stigma around the condition and encourage more open communication between patients and healthcare providers.
5 facts about fibroids
1. Risk factors
Fibroids may be caused by a variety of reasons, the exact source of which is unknown. Your chance of developing it can be raised by being a person of color, being older than 40, having a family history of the condition, starting your period at an exceptionally young age, and being overweight.
2. Treatment is not mandatory
Roughly 25–30% of the women who may acquire uterine fibroids by the age of 50 will exhibit symptoms that require medical attention. A basic pelvic exam may reveal that you have fibroids, but if you are symptom-free, you generally won't need treatment.
3. Delayed treatment may increase symptoms
The typical woman experiences fibroid symptoms for three years or longer before seeking therapy. This is frequently because people don't know enough about the problem, believe their symptoms to be ‘normal’, or are afraid that seeking medical attention would result in a hysterectomy.
4. Affects fertility
The potential impact that fibroids may have on your ability to become pregnant is another reason to seek treatment. Although most women with fibroids are able to give birth without any problems, a breech position may increase your risk of early delivery or the need for a C-section by six times. Additionally, fibroids may hinder the process of labor or allow for placental abruption.
5. Hysterectomy is optional
You might want to give fibroid treatment another thought if you're putting off getting it because you're worried about needing a hysterectomy. Dr Spieldoch typically suggests the most conservative treatments that are available. A final resort and for really severe situations, surgical removal of your uterus is frequently recommended.