Uterine leiomyoma, or fibroids, is a prevalent noncancerous tumor in women arising from the smooth muscle cells from the middle layer of the uterine wall. They tend to arise in the reproductive age and can present severe symptoms, including heavy menstrual bleeding and back pain.
In this article, we’ll discuss what uterine leiomyoma is and how healthcare professionals confirm fibroids:
A Quick Glance at Leiomyoma
Uterine leiomyoma or fibroids involve muscle and tissue growths that form on the uterine wall. While these growths are noncancerous, they can cause severe pain in women upon clustering of fibroids.
For instance, the development of these growths inside the cavity of your uterus can lead to heavy menstruation, pain during sex, bloating in the abdomen, frequent urination, and low back pain. However, in some cases, uterine leiomyoma may be asymptomatic.
How Can Doctors Diagnose Leiomyoma?
Healthcare providers will conduct routine pelvic exams and inquire about your medical history to diagnose uterine fibroids. However, you may need these tests to confirm your diagnosis:
Lab Tests
Your doctor may need blood tests to identify the root cause of irregular menstrual bleeding. With these reports, your healthcare professional will look for signs of ongoing blood loss.
An Ultrasound
The noninvasive imaging test utilizes sound waves to create a picture of your uterus, allowing them to confirm if you have fibroids. Additionally, they may map and measure the presence of these noncancerous tumors by moving the ultrasound device over your stomach.
Hysterosonography
Many healthcare professionals will request a hysterosnography to identify the presence of fibroids. The test involves saline water to expand the uterine cavity and get a clear picture of the uterus’s lining.
With hysteroscopy, your doctor can determine if you have submucosal fibroids growing in on or within the uterine line.
Imaging or CT Scans
The doctor may use Magnetic Resonance Imaging comprising magnetic or radio waves to show the size and location of fibroids in more detail. It also allows healthcare professionals to identify the different types of tumors for an accurate treatment plan.
Besides this, you may need a CT scan to give your doctor a detailed picture of your internal organs.
Hysterosalpingography
Hysterosalpingography uses a dye of contrasting material and X-rays to highlight the uterine cavity and provide an X-ray of your uterus. Your healthcare professional will recommend this test if heavy menstrual bleeding or infertility is a concern.
Thus, the test provides your doctor insights into whether the fallopian tubes are open or blocked by submucosal fibroids.
Laparoscopy
Your healthcare professional may require a laparoscopy to ensure you have uterine leiomyoma. During the test, they’ll create a small incision in the lower abdomen and insert a thin tube with a camera.
As a result, your doctor will get a closer look at your internal organs and potential fibroid growth.
The Bottom Line
People with uterine leiomyoma may experience heavy menstrual bleeding during and between their periods, discomfort during sex, constipation, and chronic discharge. However, many individuals may not experience any symptoms.
Thus, watchful waiting and discussing symptoms with a reliable, trustworthy gynecologist is crucial to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Contact your healthcare professional if you experience symptoms or believe you have uterine fibroids for a timely diagnosis.
Sources
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9130-uterine-fibroids
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/uterine-fibroids/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354294