Q. What are the potential complications or risks associated with untreated fibroids?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
While many women with fibroids may not experience significant complications, untreated fibroids can lead to various potential risks and complications, depending on the size, number, and location of the fibroids. Some of the potential complications associated with untreated fibroids include:
1. Menstrual Issues:
- Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia): Fibroids can cause excessive menstrual bleeding, leading to anemia and fatigue.
- Prolonged Menstrual Periods: Fibroids may contribute to longer periods, increasing the discomfort and inconvenience for affected individuals.
2. Pelvic Pain and Pressure:
- Pelvic Pain: Fibroids can cause pelvic pain or discomfort, which may range from mild to severe.
- Pressure on Nearby Organs: Large fibroids can exert pressure on the bladder or rectum, leading to urinary or bowel symptoms such as frequent urination or constipation.
3. Reproductive Issues:
- Infertility: Fibroids, especially when they distort the uterine cavity or block fallopian tubes, can contribute to fertility problems.
- Pregnancy Complications: Fibroids may increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, including a higher likelihood of cesarean section, breech birth, or preterm delivery.
4. Urinary and Bowel Issues:
- Frequent Urination: Fibroids pressing on the bladder can cause a frequent need to urinate.
- Constipation: Fibroids, especially those pressing on the rectum, may lead to constipation or difficulty with bowel movements.
5. Backache or Leg Pains:
- Fibroids pressing on nerves in the back can cause backache or leg pains.
6. Impact on Quality of Life:
- Chronic symptoms such as pain, heavy bleeding, and pressure can significantly impact a woman's quality of life, leading to emotional and psychological distress.
7. Rare Complications:
- Red Degeneration: In rare cases, fibroids may undergo a process called red degeneration, causing severe pain and requiring medical attention.
- Torsion of a Pedunculated Fibroid: If a fibroid has a stalk (pedunculated fibroid), it may twist on its stalk, leading to pain and potential complications.
It's important for individuals with fibroids to seek medical advice if they experience symptoms or have concerns about their impact on health and well-being. Healthcare providers can evaluate the severity of symptoms, discuss available treatment options, and recommend an appropriate management plan based on the individual's specific circumstances and preferences. Early intervention and management can help prevent or minimize potential complications associated with untreated fibroids.
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