If fibroids (also known as uterine fibroids or leiomyomas) go untreated, they can lead to various complications and symptoms depending on their size, number, and location within the uterus. Some potential consequences of untreated fibroids include:
- Increased Bleeding: Fibroids can cause heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), which can lead to anemia if left untreated.
- Pelvic Pain and Pressure: Fibroids can cause pelvic pain and pressure, especially if they grow large or press on nearby organs.
- Urinary Symptoms: Large fibroids can press on the bladder, leading to frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder completely.
- Infertility or Pregnancy Complications: Fibroids can interfere with fertility by blocking the fallopian tubes or distorting the shape of the uterus. They can also increase the risk of pregnancy complications such as miscarriage, preterm birth, or breech presentation.
- Anemia: Chronic heavy bleeding due to fibroids can lead to iron deficiency anemia, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms.
- Complications during Pregnancy and Delivery: Large fibroids can interfere with the growth of the fetus or the ability of the uterus to contract properly during labor, increasing the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery.
- Degeneration: Fibroids can undergo degeneration, a process in which the blood supply to the fibroid is compromised, leading to severe pain and requiring medical attention.
- Rare Complications: In rare cases, fibroids can lead to complications such as urinary tract infections, hydronephrosis (enlargement of the kidneys due to obstruction of urine flow), or deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in the legs).
It’s important for individuals experiencing symptoms of fibroids to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and management. Treatment options may include medication to manage symptoms, minimally invasive procedures to remove or shrink fibroids, or, in severe cases, surgical removal of the fibroids or the uterus (hysterectomy).
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