Dangers of Uterine Fibroids and Cysts

The harms of uterine fibroids and cysts mainly include menstrual abnormalities, compression symptoms, reproductive effects, risk of malignant transformation, and reduced quality of life.

1. Abnormal menstruation

Uterine fibroids may cause increased menstrual flow, prolonged menstrual periods, or irregular bleeding. Long-term blood loss may cause anemia. Cysts such as ovarian cysts may interfere with hormone production and cause menstrual irregularities. Patients may experience symptoms of anemia such as fatigue and dizziness, which need to be confirmed through routine blood tests. If necessary, iron supplements such as compound ferrous sulfate folic acid tablets and ferrous succinate tablets can be used as directed by the doctor.

2. Symptoms of oppression

Enlarged fibroids or cysts may press on the bladder and cause frequent urination, press on the rectum and cause constipation, and press on the ureters may cause hydronephrosis. Large fibroids may also cause a feeling of distension in the lower abdomen or pain in the lower back. Ultrasound examination can determine the degree of compression. If symptoms are severe, surgical resection, such as laparoscopic myomectomy or cyst removal, may need to be considered.

3. Impact on fertility

Submucosal fibroids may prevent embryo implantation, intramural fibroids may change the shape of the uterine cavity, and ovarian cysts may interfere with ovulation. These factors can lead to infertility or an increased risk of miscarriage. Patients preparing for pregnancy are recommended to undergo gynecological ultrasound and hormone level assessment first, and if necessary, undergo hysteroscopic myomectomy or cyst puncture.

4. Risk of malignant transformation

The probability of uterine fibroids becoming malignant into sarcomas is low, but rapid growth of fibroids requires vigilance. About 10% of ovarian cysts may be malignant, especially new cysts after menopause. Regular gynecological examinations are crucial. Tumor markers such as CA125 need to be detected in suspicious cases. Total hysterectomy or cytoreduction may be required after diagnosis.

5. Decreased quality of life

Chronic pelvic pain, dyspareunia, repeated medical visits and other factors may cause anxiety and depression. Some patients need to use sanitary napkins for a long time due to heavy menstrual flow, which affects social activities. It is recommended to improve mood through low-intensity exercise, psychological counseling, etc. When pain is severe, analgesics such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules can be used for a short period of time.

It is recommended to review gynecological ultrasound every 6-12 months, and women over 40 years old to undergo breast examination. Avoid daily intake of estrogen-containing health products and increase your intake of cruciferous vegetables appropriately. Symptoms such as severe abdominal pain and abnormal vaginal bleeding require immediate medical attention. Pre-menopausal women should take contraceptive measures to reduce the stimulation of hormone fluctuations.