Do uterine fibroids have a genetic component?

Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 21, 2024
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Uterine fibroids indeed have a certain hereditary quality, similar to some other tumors or diseases, with a definite familial genetic component. However, the condition of uterine fibroids varies from person to person and is also related to acquired factors such as estrogen levels. The majority of uterine fibroids are simply carried, with the incidence in the population reaching over 20%. Many people with uterine fibroids do not need to worry about them, and no surgery is required, as regular check-ups are sufficient. After menopause, some fibroids may shrink and gradually disappear on their own. Some uterine fibroids during the reproductive years will ultimately require surgery, and there is also a small chance of needing surgery after menopause.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Uterine fibroid examination items

When suspecting that a woman has uterine fibroids, the first step is to perform a routine gynecological examination by opening the vagina with a speculum. This is necessary because some women's uterine fibroids are located on the cervix; at this point, it is possible to see an increased size of the cervix and the fibroid may be visible protruding from the cervix. Moreover, during the bimanual gynecological examination, one may find that the uterus is enlarged and irregularly shaped with localized protrusions. Generally, the mobility is quite good. Additionally, some auxiliary examinations can be combined, such as the most common transvaginal ultrasound or pelvic abdominal ultrasound. For suspected submucosal uterine fibroids, a hysteroscopic examination can also be performed for diagnosis.

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Written by Jia Rui
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to check for uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are a type of benign tumor of the female reproductive organs. Uterine fibroids are a common gynecological disease and are frequently occurring; they can be clearly seen via abdominal ultrasound. Uterine fibroids mainly form due to the proliferation of uterine smooth muscle cells, with a small amount of fibrous connective tissue existing as a supportive tissue. If the fibroids do not exceed five centimeters and do not affect menstruation or present any clinical symptoms, conservative treatment can be considered, with attention to regular follow-up examinations.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Do fibroids cause stomach pain?

Uterine fibroids, if merely present and not too large, generally do not cause abdominal pain. If there are symptoms of abdominal pain, it is necessary to check whether there is pelvic inflammatory disease by examining if there is tenderness in the uterus and adnexal areas. Uterine fibroids, if accompanied by adenomyosis, can also cause abdominal pain, particularly progressive dysmenorrhea symptoms. Therefore, if there is abdominal pain, it is essential to first perform an ultrasound to understand the specifics of the uterine fibroids, whether there are other masses in the pelvic area that might be twisted, and also to check for inflammation, the presence of an intrauterine device, etc.

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Written by Li Lin
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can uterine fibroids eat donkey-hide gelatin?

Patients with uterine fibroids can consume donkey-hide gelatin. This is because uterine fibroids often cause increased menstrual flow and prolonged menstrual periods. Due to the long-term increase in menstrual volume and duration, there is an increase in blood loss, leading to anemia. The main functions of donkey-hide gelatin are to nourish the blood, moisten dryness, and stop bleeding, making it suitable for patients with uterine fibroids. Consuming donkey-hide gelatin can alleviate the anemia and excessive menstrual bleeding caused by uterine fibroids. However, donkey-hide gelatin is relatively heaty, so it should not be consumed in excess.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to check for uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids can primarily be diagnosed through ultrasound and gynecological examinations. Uterine fibroids are relatively easy to diagnose; an ultrasound can reveal irregular masses on the uterus or solid echoes, with a fairly intact capsule, which could be either solitary or multiple, confirming the presence of uterine fibroids. During a gynecological examination, an irregular uterine shape with localized protrusions can be felt, which are fairly mobile and typically not associated with significant pain, further confirming the presence of uterine fibroids.