What is uterine fibroids? Is it serious? How big does a uterine fibroid need to be surgically removed?

What is uterine fibroids and is it serious?

Uterine fibroids are a common benign tumor in gynecology. They occur on the smooth muscle cells in the myometrium of the uterus. According to statistics, about 70% of women in their childbearing years suffer from uterine fibroids. Many people don't know much about this disease and have doubts about its severity. Below we will popularize the science of uterine fibroids so that you can better understand it.

1. Impact of uterine fibroids on quality of life

Most uterine fibroids are benign, but their presence may seriously affect the patient's quality of life. Once the size of uterine fibroids reaches a certain level, it will compress the surrounding organs and nerves, causing a series of symptoms, such as excessive menstruation, prolonged menstruation, abdominal pain, pelvic discomfort, etc. These symptoms will cause physical and psychological distress to patients, seriously affecting their normal life and work.

2. The impact of uterine fibroids on fertility

For women who are planning to get pregnant, the presence of uterine fibroids may have a certain impact on fertility. The growth of uterine fibroids will change the shape and structure of the uterine cavity, hinder embryo implantation, and increase the risk of early miscarriage. In addition, the location and size of the tumor may also affect the blood supply to the placenta and have an adverse effect on the health of the fetus. Therefore, for women who are planning to get pregnant, the presence of uterine fibroids needs to be taken seriously.

3. Timing of surgical resection of uterine fibroids

Generally speaking, for most patients with uterine fibroids, if the size of the tumor does not exceed five centimeters and there are no obvious symptoms, doctors will take a conservative observation approach, through regular review and monitoring of the tumor growth. However, when the size of the uterine fibroid exceeds five centimeters, or obvious symptoms occur, such as excessive menstruation, abdominal pain, etc., doctors usually recommend surgical removal.

The timing of surgical resection is not only related to the size of the tumor, but also factors such as the patient's age, fertility needs, and the severity of symptoms. For older women or women who have completed childbearing, the timing of surgical resection can be more flexible. For younger women, if the size of the uterine fibroids exceeds five centimeters or obvious symptoms occur, doctors usually recommend early surgical resection to avoid adverse effects on fertility.

In summary, although uterine fibroids are a common benign tumor, their severity cannot be ignored. The presence of tumors may lead to a decline in quality of life and have an adverse effect on fertility. The timing of surgical resection needs to be determined according to individual circumstances. When the tumor exceeds five centimeters or obvious symptoms appear, appropriate treatment measures should be taken in a timely manner. When facing uterine fibroids, early medical treatment and active treatment are important ways to protect women's health.