Why African and Middle Eastern Women Need to Pay Attention to Fibroids

Body

Did you know that women of African or Middle Eastern descent have a higher likelihood of developing fibroids than women from other ethnic backgrounds?

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Studies indicate that Black women are diagnosed with fibroids approximately three times more frequently than white women, often with more severe symptoms. 

In the Middle East, the prevalence of uterine fibroids among women is on the higher side of the global average, estimated to be around 30.6%.

This higher risk to African and Middle Eastern women–and the impact fibroids can have on our health–makes education around our bodies and regular check-ups with a gynecologist all the more important. 

With that in mind, here’s what you need to know about the main causes, symptoms, and treatment options of fibroids.

What are fibroids?

Fibroids, or uterine leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus. They vary in size, number, and location and can sometimes lead to discomfort, affecting a woman’s quality of life.

According to John Hopkins Medicine, in more than 99% of fibroid cases, the tumors are not cancerous and do not increase the risk for uterine cancer.

What causes fibroids?

Several factors may contribute to developing fibroids, including:

  1. Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone, the hormones responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle, seem to promote the growth of fibroids.
  2. Genetics: If a family member has fibroids, your risk may be higher.
  3. Lifestyle: Certain lifestyle factors, including diet, stress levels, and physical activity, can influence the likelihood of developing fibroids.
  4. Age and ethnicity: Fibroids are most commonly found in women between the ages of 30 and 50, and studies suggest that ethnicity plays a significant role in risk assessment.

What are the most common symptoms of fibroids?

Fibroids may go unnoticed in some women, especially if they are small or symptom-free. However, for others, fibroids can bring a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including:

  1. Heavy menstrual bleeding 
  2. Pelvic pain and pressure
  3. Lower back pain
  4. Frequent urination
  5. Painful sex

What happens if fibroids aren’t treated?

Leaving fibroids untreated carries several potential risks, though it's important to note that not all fibroids require treatment and risks vary based on size, location, and individual factors. 

Here are some of the main risks to consider:

  1. Physical symptoms that may worsen over time: This includes heavy menstrual bleeding that can lead to anemia, increasing pelvic pain or pressure, worsening urinary frequency or incontinence, and growing discomfort during intercourse
  2. Fertility difficulties: Depending on location, fibroids may interfere with embryo implantation or sperm movement.
  3. Pregnancy complications: These range from increased risk of miscarriage to preterm delivery, placental abruption, or cesarean delivery.
  4. Quality of life impact: Chronic pain can affect daily activities or impact intimate relationships.

What are the available treatment options for fibroids?

Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments available for fibroids, ranging from medication to surgery. 

Treatment plans depend on factors like the size and location of fibroids, symptoms, and whether a woman plans to have children.

1. Medication

Medications that control hormones, such as birth control pills, can help manage symptoms like heavy bleeding. Another drug called GnRH Agonists shrinks fibroids by reducing estrogen levels but is usually prescribed for short-term use due to side effects.

Note: Common side effects of the GnRH agonists and antagonists include symptoms of hypogonadism such as hot flashes, gynecomastia, fatigue, weight gain, fluid retention, erectile dysfunction and decreased libido. Long-term therapy can result in metabolic abnormalities, weight gain, worsening of diabetes and osteoporosis.

2. MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery (FUS)

This newer procedure uses high-frequency sound waves to target the fibroid tissue while leaving the surrounding healthy uterus largely unaffected.

3. Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE)

This procedure cuts off the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink.

4. Myomectomy

This surgical procedure removes fibroids but leaves the uterus intact, a good option for women who wish to have children.

4. Hysterectomy

In severe cases, doctors may recommend removing the uterus. This is typically a last-resort option when other treatments are ineffective, as it permanently impacts a woman’s ability to have children.

A Final Note

You have every right to feel good in your own body; don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Equip yourself with knowledge and look for reliable information from trusted sources.

If seeing a gynecologist isn’t an option for you, try finding a general doctor you trust to talk about your concerns.

Support Mauj’s Mission For the past four and a half years, we've been committed to providing free, accessible sexual and menstrual health education to Arab women. We're now inviting you to become an active supporter of this mission. Your financial contribution helps ensure that vital health information remains freely accessible to all women who need it. For $3.99 a month, your contributionwill directly support: Creating the sex ed content we all deserve Maintaining free access to sexual health information Making these resources available to more women across the region Support

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