Can Uterine Fibroids Cause Urinary Tract Symptoms?
Do you know that lump in your throat feeling when you're nervous? Imagine that in your uterus - that's how uterine fibroids can feel. Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. But can these pesky intruders cause urinary tract symptoms? Stick around as we unravel this mystery.
What are Uterine Fibroids?
Ever found a random rock in your garden? Well, uterine fibroids are similar unwanted guests, but in your uterus. They're usually benign, or non-cancerous, and can range in size from tiny, unnoticed growths to large masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. Just as every rock is unique, every woman's experience with fibroids can be different. Some women may not even realize they have them, while others may experience heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and yes, even urinary symptoms.
Can Uterine Fibroids Cause Urinary Tract Symptoms?
So, can these unwanted uterine guests cause a ruckus in your urinary tract? In a word - yes! A study by Candace Parker-Autry and colleagues found that there's a link between fibroids, particularly those located at the front of the uterus, and urinary symptoms [2]. Women with larger uterine volumes also had higher chances of experiencing urinary problems. Think of it as hosting a large party in a small apartment - as the number of guests (fibroids) increase, the apartment (uterus) gets crowded, putting pressure on the neighboring structures like the urinary tract.
Impact of Uterine Fibroid Surgery on Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms
Now that we know fibroids can cause urinary issues, the question arises: can getting rid of these intruders through surgery help? Well, as per a study by Elsa Berujon et al., surgical treatment for fibroids can indeed reduce lower urinary tract symptoms [1]. It's like evicting those unruly guests from your apartment - once they're gone, things start getting back to normal.
Additionally, uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), a less invasive procedure that blocks the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink. A study by David Shveiky and colleagues found that UFE can also lead to significant improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms [3]. Imagine it as cutting off the party music and snacks - the guests eventually lose interest and leave, restoring tranquility.
Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids and Associated Urinary Tract Symptoms
Living with uterine fibroids isn't something you just have to accept, like bad weather. There are several treatment options available, ranging from medications to manage symptoms, to surgical procedures like a myomectomy (removing the fibroids) or uterine fibroid embolization. And guess what? These treatments can help manage those troublesome urinary symptoms too!
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Uterine fibroids, though benign, can be troublesome guests, causing symptoms like pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and yes, even urinary tract issues. But there's good news - help is at hand. With the right treatment, it's entirely possible to evict these unwanted guests and regain control over your body and life. So, if you're dealing with persistent urinary tract symptoms and suspect fibroids might be the cause, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with our specialists at Indiana Vascular. Our expert team is here to provide personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your needs, ensuring you feel comfortable in your own body once again.
Sources
Berujon, E., Thubert, T., Fauvet, R., Villot, A., & Pizzoferrato, A. C. (2022). Impact of uterine fibroid surgery on lower urinary tract symptoms. Journal of gynecology obstetrics and human reproduction, 51(5), 102355. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jogoh.2022.102355
Parker-Autry, C., Harvie, H., Arya, L. A., & Northington, G. M. (2011). Lower urinary tract symptoms in patients with uterine fibroids: association with fibroid location and uterine volume. Female pelvic medicine & reconstructive surgery, 17(2), 91–96. https://doi.org/10.1097/SPV.0b013e31820c99a9
Shveiky, D., Iglesia, C. B., Antosh, D. D., Kudish, B. I., Peterson, J., Huang, C. C., & Spies, J. B. (2013). The effect of uterine fibroid embolization on lower urinary tract symptoms. International urogynecology journal, 24(8), 1341–1345. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-012-2013-7
