Women often encounter various reproductive issues that can range from benign to potentially serious conditions. One of the common concerns is the presence of growths in the uterus, which can lead to uncertainties and varied health outcomes depending on their nature.
Dr. Deepika Alva, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospitals in HRBR Layout, Bengaluru, emphasizes the complexity and significance of diagnosing uterine growths, noting that self-diagnosis isn’t feasible. Symptoms that should prompt a visit to the doctor include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, difficulty urinating, and constipation. Diagnostic procedures such as pelvic exams, ultrasound, MRI, CT scans, hysteroscopy, or endometrial biopsy help determine the nature of these growths.
Benign Uterine Growths: More Common Than Cancerous
Dr. Alva underscores that uterine growths are predominantly benign rather than cancerous. The most prevalent benign tumors affecting women are uterine fibroids (leiomyomata), composed of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue within the uterus. While the exact causes remain unclear, factors like hormonal imbalances, genetics, lifestyle choices, and obesity may contribute to their development. Fibroids can be asymptomatic initially but may eventually manifest with symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, abdominal pressure, pelvic pain, urinary issues, pain during intercourse, and complications affecting reproduction.
Can Benign Growths Progress to Cancer?
According to Dr. Alva, the likelihood of benign uterine growths transforming into cancer is minimal. For instance, uterine fibroids have a very low chance of becoming cancerous (approximately one in 350 cases). However, postmenopausal women or those with a history of abnormal uterine bleeding may require closer monitoring, as polyps in such cases carry a slightly higher risk of malignancy.
Treatment Options
Treatment for benign uterine growths depends on factors such as size, symptoms, and individual circumstances. Options include hormonal therapy, minimally invasive procedures like uterine artery embolization, or surgical interventions such as myomectomy (fibroid removal while preserving the uterus), polypectomy (polyp removal), or hysterectomy in severe cases.
In the event of cancerous tumors (uterine or endometrial cancer), treatment options may involve surgical procedures like hysterectomy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy.
Conclusion
Regular check-ups and monitoring are crucial for evaluating changes in size or symptoms of uterine growths. Dr. Alva stresses the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate management tailored to each patient’s needs and conditions.
This comprehensive approach aims to empower women with knowledge and proactive healthcare measures, ensuring timely intervention and optimal outcomes in managing uterine growths.
