Silent epidemic: a debilitating illness secretly affects up to 70% of women.

They are not often discussed, yet fibroids are more common than one might think. These mysterious growths in the uterus affect millions of women, often without their knowledge, but they can cause problems that alter their entire lives. From heavy menstrual bleeding to complications during pregnancy—fibroids remain largely an underexplored and underdiagnosed issue, as noted by BBC Science Focus.

Fibroids significantly impact women's health, affecting up to 70-80% of women by the age of 50. These benign tumors of muscular and fibrous tissue in the uterus vary in size, shape, and location. They are typically classified based on their position within the layers of the uterus: intramural fibroids grow within the muscular wall, subserosal fibroids are closer to the outer surface of the uterus, and submucosal fibroids are located near the center of the uterus, where a baby develops.

Common symptoms include heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic and back pain, as well as pressure-related issues such as frequent urination and constipation. Large fibroids can alter the shape of the uterus, complicating pregnancy and increasing the risk of miscarriage, preterm delivery, and the need for cesarean delivery, explains Dr. Michelle Griffin, director of MFG Health Consulting.

Some cases during pregnancy may lead to "red degeneration"—a severe condition that requires immediate medical attention due to intense pain and systemic symptoms.

The causes of fibroid development remain unclear, although it is known that genetic factors, family history, and hormone levels (estrogen and progesterone) play a significant role. These hormones may promote fibroid growth, explaining their increase during pregnancy. During a routine ultrasound, fibroids are often discovered incidentally, especially during pregnancy examinations, highlighting the low awareness surrounding their diagnosis and impact.

Treatment options for fibroids depend on the severity of symptoms and future pregnancy plans, says Griffin. Medications such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists lower hormone levels to reduce fibroids, but they are not suitable for long-term use due to significant side effects such as hot flashes, infertility, and osteoporosis.

The recently approved GnRH antagonist Linzagolix has a less pronounced side effect profile, allowing for longer-term use. Surgical interventions, including myomectomy or hysterectomy, may be necessary in severe cases but are not suitable for women planning to conceive.

Despite available treatment options, awareness of fibroids remains critically low, leading to delays in seeking medical help. Addressing this gap is essential to overcoming the stigma surrounding menstrual health and improving access to vital treatment options, according to Griffin.

Important! This article is based on the latest scientific and medical research and does not contradict them. The text is for informational purposes only and does not contain medical advice. To establish a diagnosis, please consult a physician.