Do fibroids get larger during menstruation?

Ladies, are you wondering if your fibroids get larger during menstruation? Well, wonder no more! In this informative article, we will address this age-old question and put those worries to rest. As your trusty guide in all things uterine-related, let’s dig into the nitty-gritty of fibroid growth.

What Are Fibroids?

First things first – let’s define what exactly fibroids are. Simply put, they’re benign (non-cancerous) growths that can develop in the uterus. They vary greatly in size and shape but usually range from pea-sized to as big as a grapefruit (not edible).

While most women with uterine fibroids often experience little or no symptoms, they can present menstrual pain/discomfort along with heavy bleeding.

How do you know if you have fibroids?

Fibroid detection could be a bit tricky because sometimes there may not be any signs/symptoms. However common ones include:

  • Lengthened periods
  • Excessive menstrual cramping
  • Anemia (a medical condition caused by lack of blood supply)

If ever unsure whether you have it or not; visiting an ob-gyn will go far beyond assumptions.

Does Menstruation Affect fibroid size?

This is where most ladies get curious about their hormonal cycle influencing the growth rate of their uterine myomas (yes that’s another name for them). According to experts on this matter;

The increase\expansion (enlargement) of tumors has been associated with estrogen production. So since a woman’s body produces Estrogen hormones during menstruation,… Connect the dots

Estrogen –(increases)-> Tumors

Menstrual Period = Increased Estrogen Production

Therefore …??

The Truth About Fibroid Growth During Menstruation

Yes, fibroid growth can occur during menstruation. However, it’s essential to note that this doesn’t happen in all women with the condition (Don’t panic yet). Studies show that while most uterine myomas do expand and cause heavier bleeding during menstrual cycles, a good percentage of these tumors remain constant.

If you notice significant changes such as an increase in blood flow or an excruciating pain around your pelvic region, kindly visit your doctor for proper check-ups because it could be one of many things.

Factors That Influence Fibroid Growth

It’s vital to know other possible factors that contribute to fibroid growth as you learn about how periods affect them. Some include:

  • Family history (genetics)
  • Obesity
  • Consumption of processed foods (healthy diet matters)
    These few will only give us glimpse another article might get into full detail.

How Do You Manage Fibroids During Menstruation?

Now we know that not every woman has increased tumor size during their menstrual cycle – phew! But suppose you’re one who experiences discomforts step forward let’s help keep those troubled times bearable..

Pain Management

In cases where heavy cramps come knocking on the door; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen are said to work wonders against prostaglandins which are tiny muscle hormones associated with period pains

Heating pads also help relax cramped muscles when appropriately placed on areas where pain is experienced.

Management Of Heavy Bleeding

Fibroids can create substantial concern for excessive bleeding episodes inexperienced by ladies especially involving clots (a little buzz worthy) Here are ways they have managed it;

  1. Iron Supplements: The loss of blood often results in iron deficiency/anemia so taking supplements like Ferrous Sulfate or Ferrous Gluconate helps boost red blood cells count.
  2. Birth Control: Birth control medications that are high in estrogen can decrease bleeding or eliminate periods altogether.
  3. Ablation Therapy: surgical therapy which involves the removal\destruction of fibroid tissues with good success rate in controlling heavy bleeding episodes.

Phew! This was a long read, but we bet you enjoyed every bit of it. Uterine Fibroids might seem like an elephant in the room to most women, #NoShameLadies; it happens to 20-80% female population across all ages!

In conclusion, while menstrual cycles do have a link with fibroid growth and expansion, not every woman who has them experiences this phenomenon. Keep track of your symptoms (don’t overthink on this), and if there’s any cause for concern, go see your doctor immediately because earlier detection means better chances for management.

Stay healthy!

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