Intramural fibroids are one of the most common types of uterine fibroids. They are benign growths that form within the muscular wall of the uterus. These fibroids are known to cause a variety of symptoms, including heavy menstrual bleeding, pain, and pressure on nearby organs. One of the most common concerns that women with intramural fibroids have is whether these fibroids can cause bleeding. This article aims to explore this issue in detail, providing a clear understanding of how intramural fibroids can affect bleeding and overall menstrual health.
What Are Intramural Fibroids?
Intramural fibroids are a type of fibroid that grows within the walls of the uterus. These fibroids are usually round or oval in shape and can vary in size. While they are not cancerous, they can cause significant discomfort and impact a woman’s quality of life. The size and location of the fibroids determine the severity of the symptoms a woman may experience. Some women may have very small fibroids that cause no symptoms, while others may have large fibroids that cause heavy bleeding and other issues.
How Do Intramural Fibroids Affect Bleeding?
One of the primary concerns for women with intramural fibroids is whether these fibroids can cause abnormal bleeding. The answer is yes, intramural fibroids can lead to heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. There are several reasons why this happens.
First, intramural fibroids can interfere with the normal contraction of the uterine muscles. The uterus is made up of smooth muscle, and during menstruation, the muscles contract to help shed the uterine lining. If there are fibroids in the wall of the uterus, these fibroids can disrupt this process. As a result, the contractions may not be as effective, leading to prolonged bleeding.
Second, intramural fibroids can cause the uterine lining to become thicker in some cases. This happens because fibroids can change the blood flow in the uterus. When the blood supply to the uterine lining increases due to the presence of fibroids, the lining can become thicker. When this thicker lining is shed during menstruation, it can lead to heavier bleeding than normal.
Third, large intramural fibroids may put pressure on the blood vessels in the uterus, which can increase the amount of blood flow during menstruation. This pressure can lead to excessive bleeding that may last longer than a typical menstrual period. In some cases, this can lead to a condition known as menorrhagia, which refers to abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding.
Symptoms of Bleeding Caused by Intramural Fibroids
Women with intramural fibroids may experience a range of symptoms related to abnormal bleeding. Some of the most common symptoms include:
Heavy menstrual bleeding: This can involve soaking through pads or tampons every hour for several hours, or having to change pads or tampons overnight.
Prolonged periods: Menstrual periods may last longer than usual, sometimes lasting up to 7-10 days or more.
Spotting between periods: Some women with fibroids experience spotting or light bleeding between regular menstrual periods.
Anemia: Heavy bleeding over a long period of time can lead to anemia, which is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to tissues.
It is important to note that not all women with intramural fibroids will experience these symptoms. The severity of the symptoms depends on factors such as the size and location of the fibroids, as well as the individual’s overall health.
Diagnosis of Intramural Fibroids and Bleeding
If a woman is experiencing abnormal bleeding and suspects that she may have fibroids, she should seek medical advice. A healthcare provider will typically perform a pelvic exam and may use imaging tests to confirm the presence of fibroids. Common imaging tests used to diagnose fibroids include ultrasound, MRI, and hysterosonography.
An ultrasound is often the first test used, as it can provide clear images of the uterus and help detect the size and location of any fibroids. In some cases, an MRI may be used for a more detailed image, especially if the fibroids are difficult to see on an ultrasound. A hysterosonogram, which involves injecting a saline solution into the uterus and taking images, may be used if the fibroids are located inside the uterine cavity.
Once a diagnosis of intramural fibroids is confirmed, the healthcare provider will assess the severity of the bleeding and discuss possible treatment options.
Treatment Options for Bleeding Due to Intramural Fibroids
If intramural fibroids are causing abnormal bleeding, there are several treatment options available. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the severity of the bleeding, the size of the fibroids, and whether the woman is planning to have children in the future.
Medications: In many cases, doctors may recommend medications to help control heavy bleeding. Hormonal treatments, such as birth control pills, hormonal IUDs, or progestin therapy, can help regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce bleeding. Non-hormonal medications, such as tranexamic acid, may also be used to help reduce the amount of bleeding during menstruation.
Minimally invasive procedures: For women with larger fibroids or more severe symptoms, minimally invasive procedures may be recommended. One such procedure is uterine artery embolization (UAE), which involves blocking the blood vessels that supply blood to the fibroids. This can shrink the fibroids and reduce the bleeding. Another option is MRI-guided focused ultrasound, which uses sound waves to destroy fibroids without the need for incisions.
Surgical options: If the fibroids are large or if other treatments do not work, surgery may be necessary. A myomectomy is a surgical procedure in which the fibroids are removed from the uterus. This can help reduce bleeding and relieve other symptoms. In some cases, a hysterectomy, which is the removal of the uterus, may be recommended if the woman no longer desires fertility or if the fibroids are severely affecting her health.
When to See a Doctor
Women with intramural fibroids should see a doctor if they experience any of the following:
Excessive bleeding that soaks through pads or tampons every hour for several hours.
Periods that last longer than 7 days.
Spotting or bleeding between periods.
Severe pelvic pain or pressure.
Fatigue or dizziness due to heavy bleeding.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can help determine the cause of the bleeding and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Conclusion
Intramural fibroids can indeed cause bleeding, particularly in the form of heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. These fibroids can interfere with the normal function of the uterus, leading to an increase in blood flow and thicker uterine linings. The treatment options for managing bleeding caused by intramural fibroids range from medications to minimally invasive procedures and surgery, depending on the severity of the symptoms. Women who experience abnormal bleeding or other related symptoms should seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Related Topics:
