Let’s talk about fibroids ladies. Uterine fibroids are very common amongst us ladies, particularly for women aged 40+. Uterine fibroids are medically known as a leiomyoma. Fibroids are generally benign, harmless and can often go away on their own. There have been many times throughout my life where I’ve had a pelvic ultrasound and my fibroids have disappeared then re-appeared. 

Uterine fibroids occur when muscle cells in the uterus multiply too many times. As cells multiply, lumps of various shapes and sizes form. Research shows that hormones estrogen and progesterone play a role in the growth of fibroids. Some women are more likely to develop fibroids due to a genetic inheritance, and 60 % of women with African ancestry by the age of 35 will have developed fibroids. During peri-menopause women will often grow fibroids then they will disappear, decline or shrink after menopause. Only 10-20% of fibroid cases require surgery.

Uterine fibroids are a common cause of abnormal heavy periods. Symptoms associated with fibroids include:

➕Periods that are heavy, long and/ or painful
➕Irregular bleeding
➕Pelvic Pain
➕Constipation
➕Iron deficiency Anemia
➕Frequent Urination
➕Bloating
➕Irritable Bowel Syndrome
➕Difficulty conceiving or carrying to term.
Fibroids are often diagnosed by a pelvic ultrasound and are classified by location, number and size.

There are 3 common locations:

1️⃣ Intramural- Grow within the uterine wall and can cause heavy menstrual flow, urinary frequency, back and pelvic pain

2️⃣ Submucosal -Grow under the uterine lining (endometrium) and the least common and can protrude into the uterine cavity
3️⃣ Subsersoal- Grow on the outer surface of the uterus.

In Chinese Medicine we described fibroids by their shape and size:

Pea 1cm
Walnut 3cm
Lemon 5.5cm  
Apple/pear 7.5cm  
Orange 9cm  
Grapefruit 11.5cm

If you are concerned, please consult your medical professional to ascertain your diagnosis. 

Amanda is the founder of Angea and has over 12 years of experience working with women to support their health journey. In addition to being a registered doctor of Chinese medicine, Amanda is a yoga teacher and founder of Mindful Pregnancy Yoga Training. Amanda offers acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and womb healing treatments at Angea.