What are the consequences of not removing a large uterine fibroid?

If uterine fibroids are not removed when they are large, they may cause compression of surrounding tissues, infertility or miscarriage, abnormal delivery, and other problems. Generally, surgical removal is recommended when the diameter of uterine fibroids is larger than 5 cm.

1. Compression of surrounding tissue structures: If uterine fibroids are not removed in time, they may compress surrounding tissue structures, leading to a series of uncomfortable symptoms. For example, when the fibroids in the lower segment of the anterior wall of the uterus are large, they may compress the bladder, causing symptoms such as frequent urination and urgency; when the cervical fibroids are large, they may cause difficulty in urination or even urinary retention. When the fibroids on the posterior wall of the uterus are large, they may cause lower abdominal distension and constipation. When broad ligament fibroids or giant cervical fibroids develop laterally and are embedded in the pelvic cavity, they will compress the ureter, causing obstruction of the upper urinary tract, ureteral dilatation, and even hydronephrosis.

2. Infertility or miscarriage: Uterine fibroids may also affect women's fertility. Submucosal fibroids can easily cause infertility or affect the implantation of fertilized eggs, leading to early miscarriage. When intramural fibroids are too large, they can cause deformation of the uterine cavity, leading to infertility, or miscarriage due to insufficient blood supply to the endometrium. This is a very important issue for women who want to get pregnant.

3. Abnormal delivery: For pregnant women, uterine fibroids may cause a series of problems during delivery. If the fibroids grow in a low position, it may hinder the descent of the fetal presenting part, resulting in abnormal fetal position, low-lying or anterior placenta, and obstruction of the birth canal in the late pregnancy and delivery. This not only poses a threat to the safety of mother and baby, but may also require cesarean section to solve the problem.

4. Impact on quality of life: The presence of uterine fibroids not only causes physical discomfort, but may also affect women's quality of life. Long-term abdominal pain, menstrual abnormalities, anemia and other symptoms can make people feel exhausted and even affect work and daily life. In this case, surgical removal of fibroids can significantly improve these symptoms and improve quality of life.

5. Potential risk of malignant transformation: Although most uterine fibroids are benign, they may become malignant in rare cases. In particular, fibroids that grow rapidly or continue to grow after menopause may be at risk of malignant transformation. Regular examinations and timely treatment can reduce this risk.

6. Psychological burden: Women who have suffered from uterine fibroids for a long time may have a psychological burden because of their concerns about the progression of the disease. Emotions such as anxiety, worry, and even depression can have a negative impact on physical health. Surgical removal of fibroids can reduce this psychological burden and make people feel more relaxed.

If uterine fibroids are not removed when they are large, there may be many adverse consequences. In order to avoid these problems, it is recommended that female friends have regular gynecological examinations and undergo surgical treatment in a timely manner when the fibroids are found to be large and the symptoms are obvious. This can not only protect your health, but also improve your quality of life and make you feel more at ease.