Fibroids are benign tumours which can develop in the wall of the uterus.
Commonest tumours for the female genital tract
Types:
Classified according to their location in the uterus.
sub serous – fibroids form on the outer wall of the uterus called serosa.
Intramural – fibroids appear within the muscular wall of uterus called the myometrium
Submucosal – fibroids project partially or completely into the uterine cavity
Diagnosis:
Pelvic exam
Ultrasound
MRI
HSG or Hysteroscopy to visualize the cavity.
Treatment:
Watchful expectancy in asymptomatic patients.
Medical Management
Tranexamic Acid-to reduce heavy flow during periods
NSAIDS- to reduce pain during periods
OCPs
Gn-RH agonists
Surgical Management
Myomectomy– Removal of the fibroids alone , conserving the uterus. The route of surgery may be: Open Laparoscopy ,Hysteroscopy depending on the size, number and location of fibroids
Hysterectomy-Removal of the uterus in older women who have completed child bearing.