Many women may delay fibroid treatment if they feel they are able to manage the symptoms but as with all medical conditions, the earlier a condition is treated, the easier and more effective treatment is likely to be. Here are some FAQs regarding the non-treatment of fibroids:
Do fibroids get worse with time?
Fibroids do tend to continue growing and so are most likely to get worse with time.
Do fibroids always grow back?
With other treatment options, fibroids can grow back but with Uterine Fibroid Embolisation, the chances of fibroids growing back is less than 3%.
Which is more painful between fibroid treatment and untreated fibroid symptoms?
If you leave symptomatic fibroids untreated, your situation will deteriorate, increasing the level of pain experienced. The low levels of iron will also remain low or get worse which will impact energy levels and affect your quality of life.
Do untreated fibroids cause infertility?
Infertility is a complex problem and should be evaluated holistically. Fibroids can cause fertility problems, but many other things can also cause fertility problems. It is advisable to consult with a fertility specialist regarding infertility issues.
How do untreated fibroids affect pregnancy?
There is no certainty. Sometimes there is no effect and sometimes they can cause a miscariage. It is advisable for your obstetrician to monitor the fibroids throughout your pregnancy. See here for more information on fibroids and pregnancy.
Do fibroids disappear after menopause?
No, but they can shrink in size and in some cases the symptoms they cause can go away.
Can untreated fibroids result in internal bleeding?
No.
Can untreated fibroids cause heavier menstrual bleeding and more painful menstrual cramps?
Most definitely, this is one of the most common symptoms of fibroids.
Can fibroids be cancerous?
It is very very uncommon and unlikely for fibroids to be cancerous but only through a medical examination can the possibility be completely ruled out.
Can untreated fibroids cause urinary incontinence?
Yes. Urinary incontinence is an uncomfortable and common condition in which a person loses control of their bladder which could lead to involuntary leakage of urine that can be triggered through sneezing, coughing or laughing. When fibroids grow in size they can press against internal organs such as the bladder and cause them to not function properly.
What effects do untreated fibroids have on exercise and active hobbies?
Various pressure symptoms dependent on the size and position of the fibroids. Pain and heavy bleeding can make you tired and unable to exercise properly. They can also affect your mental health, for example, becoming despondent due to putting on weight, inability to control weight and other symptoms that affect daily life.
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