What are Fibroids?
Fibroids (or myomas/leiomyomas) are non-cancerous growths within the muscle of the uterus (womb). They are very common, occurring in up to 40% of women at some point during their lives, and are usually diagnosed during the reproductive years, from late teens to menopause.
What are Fibroids? Common Myths
Myth 1: Fibroids are cancerous
Truth:
Fibroids are NOT cancerous. Uterine fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop in or around the uterus. They are very common, especially in women of reproductive age, and most do not cause serious health problems. In extremely rare cases, a cancerous tumor called a leiomyosarcoma can develop in the uterus, but this is not the same as a fibroid and occurs in only a tiny fraction of cases. Having fibroids does not increase your risk of uterine cancer.They rarely become cancerous, so having fibroids is usually not life-threatening.
Myth 2: Fibroids always require surgery
Truth:
Many fibroids can be treated without open surgery, including with Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) or medication, depending on symptoms and size. if they do not cause any symptoms at all, no treatment is necessary and they can be left alone.
Myth 3: Fibroids always affect fertility
Truth:
Not all fibroids impact fertility. Only certain fibroids that distort the uterine cavity or are very large may interfere with conception or pregnancy.
Need more information on Fibroids Treatment in Kenya?
If you think you are experiencing symptoms of uterine fibroids and looking for effective treatment in Kenya, Dr. Ravjit Sagoo and his team are here to help. Learn more about the UFE procedure offered by Dr. Sagoo at Aga Khan University Hospital, MP Shah Hospital and Avenue Hospital in Nairobi. Clinics are only at Aga Khan and MP Shah Hospitals. Schedule a consultation to discuss fibroid treatment options.