A uterine tumor is an abnormal growth that occurs in the uterus. Uterine tumors do not always present clear symptoms, which can lead to confusion for some individuals.
Recognizing the symptoms early can help determine the cause and guide the treatment plan if necessary.
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Characteristics of Uterine Tumors
A uterine tumor is an abnormal growth in the uterus. These tumors can be either benign or malignant. When a malignant tumor is present in the uterus, it is referred to as uterine cancer.
Uterine tumors typically refer to benign growths, commonly known as fibroids or myomas. In medical terms, they are also called leiomyomas.
There are three types of benign uterine tumors: leiomyoma, adenofibroma, and adenomyoma.
The size of uterine tumors can vary, ranging from 1 mm to over 20 cm. Small tumors often do not cause noticeable symptoms.
However, larger uterine tumors may present the following characteristics:
- Severe abdominal pain during menstruation
- Excessive menstrual bleeding
- Menstruation outside the normal cycle
- A feeling of fullness or bloating in the lower abdomen
- Frequent urge to urinate (due to the tumor pressing on the bladder)
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Lower back pain
- Pelvic pain
- Constipation or pressure on the rectum
- Incomplete urination
- Chronic vaginal discharge
- Enlarged lower abdomen resembling pregnancy
Causes of Uterine Tumors
Experts have not yet fully understood the exact cause of uterine tumors. However, one contributing factor is the hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Most uterine tumors grow larger when hormone levels rise and may shrink when hormone levels decline, typically as menopause approaches. This is why uterine tumors are more commonly detected during reproductive years when hormone levels are optimal or high.
Difference Between Uterine Tumors and Uterine Cancer
In general, a tumor refers to an abnormal mass that grows in any part of the body. This abnormal mass is called a tumor if it is benign.
Typically, benign uterine tumors have controlled growth and do not significantly harm the body. In some cases, the size of the tumor may remain unchanged for years.
On the other hand, uterine cancer usually involves an aggressive and uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. Uterine cancer is a malignant tumor that occurs in the uterus.
Can Uterine Tumors Be Treated?
Uterine tumors can be treated with various methods. The treatment usually depends on the size, number, location of the tumor, and the symptoms it causes.
If the uterine tumor is small and asymptomatic, treatment may not be necessary. Doctors typically recommend treatment when the tumor is large enough to cause complications, such as anemia due to excessive menstrual bleeding.
Treatment for uterine tumors may aim to inhibit tumor growth or alleviate symptoms. Some treatment options include:
- Pain relievers
- Iron supplements
- Birth control pills
- Surgical removal of fibroids, either through open surgery or laparoscopy
When to See a Doctor
If you experience symptoms of uterine tumors, such as:
- Persistent pelvic pain
- Menstrual bleeding or pain that disrupts daily activities
- Bleeding outside the menstrual cycle
- Weakness, fatigue, and lethargy, which may indicate anemia
You should consult an OB-GYN specialist immediately. Remember that uterine tumors are not always fatal. Often, they are benign and may not require specific treatment.
To confirm the diagnosis, consult a doctor. Through examination, you can also detect other potentially dangerous uterine conditions early for prompt treatment.
Visit the Advanced Cancer and Radiotherapy Centre at Mandaya Royal Hospital Group to consult with our experts. Contact us via WhatsApp, book an appointment, or download the Care Dokter app on Google Play and the App Store to schedule a consultation.
