What are cysts and fibroids? Symptoms of uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts. Embolization of the uterine arteries for fibroids and uterine cysts

Fibroids and uterine cysts are quite common pathologies in women that require surgical treatment in the future. Both of these processes are benign, however, despite this, they can lead to quite severe complications.

Features of the appearance of fibroids

As with many diseases, in order to have a good understanding of the signs indicating these conditions, in addition, and the principles of their research and treatment, you must initially understand the process of the appearance of such pathological changes in the uterus.

The uterus itself is a special organ capable of housing the future fetus, providing its nutrition and development. It is formed by several layers: internal mucous, muscular (the largest layer) and serous.

The main place of formation of fibroids is localized precisely in the muscle layer (where this formation gets its name). It is formed among the fibers of muscle and connective tissue. Usually, in the process of its formation, it goes through three points of development: an active growth zone of fibroids is formed in the muscular uterine layer, then it begins to grow rapidly, and then its so-called “expansive” growth occurs (with the penetration of formation tissues into the tissues of structures lying next to it ).

It is the body of the uterus that is most susceptible to the formation of fibroids due to the presence of a well-developed muscular layer in it. Fibroids can also appear in the uterine cervix, but with much less probability than in its body.

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Pathogenesis of the condition

For fibroids, there is currently one main theory of its possible occurrence: hormonal. It has been established that the influence of certain hormones can play a role in triggering the formation of a myomatous node: estrone, follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol and luteinizing hormone. This point of view is further supported by the fact that a large amount of the hormones described above was found in the tissue itself, which significantly exceeds that in normal tissues.

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Causes of occurrence and appearance of the condition

As such, there are no reasons that can fully explain. There are prerequisite reasons that can lead to the possible appearance of myomatous lesions. Typically this is:

• exposure to severe stress overload;
• long-term performance of heavy physical work;
• imbalances in the production of female sex hormones;
• various conditions of the endocrine system organs;
• presence of abortions;
• inflammatory conditions of the internal female genital organs in the chronic phase (salpingitis, salpingoophoritis);
• absence of childbirth and breastfeeding until age 30;
• long-term use of oral contraceptives.

Myoma is a complex disease, and therefore there are a large number of its forms. They are distinguished by formation activity, place of formation, etc. But among them, the classification of fibroids according to their type of growth is most often used:

1. Forming under the serous (peritoneal layer) - subserous type.
2. Formed only in the layers of the myometrium - interstitial type.
3. Located under the mucous layer - submucosal.

This classification is convenient for the use of surgical therapy, for describing the exact location of the formation and for diagnosing possible complications (for example, bleeding in the submucosal variant).

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Clinical signs of the disease

Clinical signs depend on:

1. Location of the myomatous node.
2. Sizes.
3. The age of the woman herself.

There are a number of common signs: pain and bleeding. Painful clinical signs in a woman are defined as pain of a constant nature, without interruptions. They can occur both during the intermenstrual period and significantly intensify during menstruation itself. The pain is aching, pulling (cramping) in nature.

Bleeding is the most dangerous, as this may indicate the expansion of myomatous cells in the uterine vessels, which have powerful blood flow, and their possible damage. Initially, they look like a large amount of spotting, which can appear during the period between menstruation. It should be understood that in the genesis of bleeding, it is not so much the size of the fibroid that is important, but its location, since even a small tumor can form next to the vessel, deform it and lead to bleeding.

Such constant and prolonged blood loss leads to the development of anemia - a decrease in the total number of red blood cells and hemoglobin per unit volume of blood. As a result of this, various pathological conditions are already triggered in other organs that do not receive sufficient nutrition due to a decrease in the amount of blood in the bloodstream.

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Principles of cyst formation

Cysts in the uterus are also benign in their characteristics. In fact, these neoplasms are hollow inside and filled with liquid. They can occur both in the body of the uterus itself and in the uterine cervix.

The main reason for their appearance is blockage due to certain situations of the glands of the uterine cervix. As a result, the constantly formed secretion overstretches the gland itself and cysts form (the “self-filling” effect). Unlike fibroids, it is almost impossible to detect a cyst based on clinical signs, since it may not manifest itself in the clinic at all and can masquerade as any underlying gynecological disease. In the future, the cyst can cause infertility in a woman, and therefore, in case of any doubtful conditions, it is necessary to proceed with a thorough diagnosis.

Pathologies of the female reproductive system, in the absence of adequate treatment, can lead to serious consequences for the health and life of the patient.

The main danger is that such diseases develop, as a rule, without attracting attention: for example, symptoms of uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts often do not appear in the first stages of tumor formation - this makes their timely detection difficult.

Cystic tumors most often affect the right ovary. This feature can make it difficult to diagnose fibroids: many doctors believe that both pathologies should be located on the same side, and this is not always a true statement.

The development of pathologies of the female reproductive system is often asymptomatic, and yet the formed myomatous node can be compared to the size of a fetus carried to late pregnancy.

Therefore, it is necessary to visit a gynecologist at least 1-2 times a year in order to identify the disease at the earliest stage.

Causes of the disease

The main cause of both diseases is hormonal imbalance: it is the disruption of stable hormone levels that becomes a provoking factor for the development of tumors in the reproductive organs in women of childbearing age. After menopause, these formations usually regress.

Factors contributing to the formation of uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts:

• genetic predisposition;
• installation of contraceptive intrauterine devices;
• obesity, diabetes mellitus;
• and adrenal glands;
• , inflammation of the appendages;
• arterial hypertension;
• chronic infectious diseases;
• abortion (medical, instrumental), miscarriage;
• damage to the uterine cavity due to surgery or childbirth;
• frequent emotional and physical stress;
• lack of regular sexual intercourse;
• congestion in the pelvis;
• taking oral contraceptives, early menopause.

Despite the fact that scientists regularly conduct new research on this topic, it is not yet possible to determine the exact cause of fibroids and cysts.

Causes of hormonal imbalance

Disturbed hormonal levels are extremely favorable conditions for the formation of tumors in the organs of the female reproductive system.

In addition to the obvious reasons - taking hormone-containing drugs, age-related changes, gynecological operations, imbalance can also be provoked by more distant factors:

• diseases of the nervous system, stressful situations;
• mechanical injuries, brain pathologies with and;
• malnutrition, aggravated by anorexia or bulimia;
• lack of daily routine, leading to lack of rest, lack of sleep;
• grueling work;
• abuse of alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, medications;
• endocrinological operations on the thyroid gland, adrenal glands;
• sexually transmitted diseases (STDs);
• weakened immunity;

Treatment of uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts should begin with restoring hormonal balance, since there is a possibility that in the absence of an excess of hormones, the neoplasm will begin to regress on its own and disappear.

Possible complications

Myomatous nodes and cysts in themselves are very dangerous pathologies, and when they are combined, the risk of developing complications increases many times over.

As a rule, they are possible against the background of a long course of disease with significant tumor growth.

Large neoplasms in the organs of the reproductive system can be complicated by very serious consequences:

• transition of tumor to (malignancy);
• chronic infertility;
• development of endometriosis and adnexitis;
• microbial infection of the uterus and ovaries;
• deformation or rupture of formations.

The latter complications are the most severe: they can lead to heavy blood loss, which in large volumes (more than 15-20%) causes hemorrhagic shock and death of the patient. If you suspect fibroids, you must immediately call an ambulance and hospitalize the victim.

Also, very large tumors put a lot of pressure on nearby organs, which causes their deformation and disruption during operation.

If the patient is not diagnosed with infertility, then she still has the opportunity to become pregnant and carry a child to term even if she has a cyst or fibroid.

Uterine fibroids on ultrasound

However, the risk of complications also exists: possible inverted position of the fetus in the womb, various pathologies in development, premature birth, threat of miscarriage, etc. Such a pregnancy proceeds under regular supervision of a gynecologist, and in most cases the child is removed by cesarean section.

In many women, after childbirth, cystic and myomatous formations resolve spontaneously, without outside medical help, so pregnancy (if there are no direct contraindications) can be considered the most gentle method of treating benign tumors in the organs of the reproductive system.

The ovaries and uterus are very important organs not only for reproductive health, but also for the general health of a woman. The attitude towards them should be extremely attentive: the slightest deviations in this area should be monitored by a specialist.

If you consult a doctor in time, treatment of fibroids and ovarian cysts may not even be necessary: ​​therapy begins with regular monitoring of the tumor every 3-6 months using pelvic ultrasound.

Comparing the results, the gynecologist assesses the dynamics of growth (resorption) of the tumor and decides on the need for medical intervention. If you delay in providing professional help, the only way to solve the problem may be surgical intervention.

Fibroids and cysts of the ovary and cervix are common diseases of the female genital area, very often discovered by chance during a routine examination, and often cause the development of infertility in a woman.

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Ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids are gynecological diseases that require constant medical supervision. An annual gynecologist will help to promptly identify the first signs of a genital disease.

Cervical fibroids and cysts

Fibroids and ovarian cysts are often diagnosed in women over 30 years of age, very often in women of premenopausal age, and there are cases of fibroids being detected in young girls. It is not uncommon for fibroids to significantly decrease in size after menopause.

The real reasons for the development of the disease are still unknown. Factors that provoke the disease are:

• Failure of the hormonal system, hormonal imbalance.
• Hereditary predisposition to the disease.
• Chronic gynecological diseases.
• Abortion, severe traumatic childbirth and many other factors.

The female reproductive organ consists of the following layers - mucous, muscular and serous. Each layer has its own functions, due to which the fertilized egg is attached to the walls of the organ, the size of the organ increases along with the growth of the fetus, support for normal blood supply to the fetus, and delivery. Normal functioning of the endocrine system, the absence of chronic diseases of the reproductive system, and a healthy lifestyle have a great influence on reproductive function.

Myoma forms in the muscular (middle) layer of the reproductive organ. It develops in the muscle tissue of the organ. First, a small nodule appears, which may not show itself in any way, then, under the influence of various factors, the formation begins to increase in size. The tissues of the formation penetrate into nearby structures. Fibroids can form both in the body of the uterus and in the cervix. It is believed that one of the factors provoking the development of uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts is an imbalance of hormones in a woman’s body.

Uterine fibroids and cervical cysts are fairly common pathologies of the female genital area and can lead to serious complications if the diseases are not treated in a timely manner. Cervical cysts are found in 15% of women of childbearing age and can be single or multiple. The second name for a cervical cyst is Nabothian cyst, or retention cyst. The disorder develops when the epithelium lining the surface of the cervical canal changes. The modified epithelium ceases to perform a protective role and cannot withstand the acidic environment of the vagina - inflammation begins and the outflow of secretion from the nabothian glands is disrupted. The glands become clogged and Nabothian cysts form.

Nabothian formations of the cervix are prone to growth. If they reach a large size, they can deform the neck of the organ and cause disruption of the epithelial structure. This type is not prone to self-resorption and requires removal. Nabothian formations of the cervix do not degenerate into a malignant formation. If they are small in size, then in most cases they do not cause inconvenience and do not affect the menstrual cycle. Cervical cysts accompanying fibroids eventually manifest symptoms of discomfort associated with an increase in the size of the formation.

Ovarian cyst and uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts are different gynecological pathologies that may have the same cause of development. Often the impetus for the development of fibroids and ovarian cysts is abortion; hormonal imbalances, genital diseases and other factors also have an impact.

Uterine fibroids and the accompanying ovarian cyst are manifested by heavy and painful menstruation, the menstrual cycle is disrupted, sexual intercourse becomes painful, the woman experiences discomfort during physical activity, problems with defecation and urination may occur, and spotting appears between menstruation.

An ovarian follicular cyst forms if the follicle does not rupture after maturation. It fills with fluid and remains in the ovary. Sometimes an unruptured follicle can block the entrance to the fallopian tube and cause discomfort. Such a follicular cyst most often disappears after the next menstruation. A functional ovarian cyst occurs due to the expansion of the corpus luteum; it can occur due to rupture of blood vessels inside the follicle; if the development of the ovaries is disrupted during puberty, like a tumor, a malignant neoplasm of the ovaries subsequently develops.

Do right ovarian fibroids and left ovarian fibroids occur?

Fibroids cannot develop in the ovaries. The formation consists of chaotically intertwined smooth muscle fibers and affects the muscular layer of the uterus. The ovaries are covered with a thin tunica albuginea; under the tunica albuginea there is the ovarian cortex, glandular tissue. The central part of the organ is the medulla, which contains loose connective tissue and many vessels. The cortex of the ovary contains follicles in which eggs develop. Cysts form in the ovaries, which are fluid-filled cavities located on the surface of the ovary. They look like thin-walled sacs of liquid.

Why is an ovarian cyst dangerous?

Very often, the cause of the development of a cyst in the left ovary is colitis - inflammation of the sigmoid and ascending small intestine. Pathology in the right ovary can develop due to colitis, after surgery to remove appendicitis, or other surgical interventions in this area of ​​the abdominal cavity. Nabotovo, or functional formation of the ovary, is dangerous because it can rupture, causing the fluid contained in it to enter the abdominal cavity. This condition leads to the development of peritonitis and poses a threat to the woman’s health and life.

Rupture of the formation is accompanied by acute abdominal pain, high body temperature, nausea, vomiting, uterine bleeding, decreased blood pressure, dizziness, headache and loss of consciousness. If such symptoms appear, you should immediately seek medical help. Cysts and uterine fibroids require medical supervision and timely treatment. If a cyst and fibroid are diagnosed, the doctor will be able to tell you whether surgical intervention is required, whether you can not fear rupture of the cavity of the follicular formation and wait until regression begins, how to treat this type of fibroid, which treatment method is considered preferable in your individual case.

Treatment of uterine fibroids, cervical cysts, ovarian cysts

Treatment of cervical diseases is carried out using a laser and radio wave method. By influencing the formation using a non-contact method, the doctor achieves evaporation of the cyst, at the same time having a coagulating effect. Treatment of fibroids is carried out using various methods, depending on the size of the formation and the woman’s health condition. Treatments include hormonal therapy, embolization of the uterine arteries, laparoscopic and hysteroscopic removal of formations; in severe cases, radical treatment of uterine nodes is carried out - removal of the uterus. To receive qualified help for the treatment of diseases of the female genital area, you should be responsible when choosing a doctor. An experienced doctor will be able to prescribe adequate treatment, preserve the patient’s reproductive function and women’s health.

Treatment with hormonal therapy or surgical treatment does not lead to complete recovery; they affect existing fibroids, but cannot eliminate the cause of the disease. During surgical removal of fibroids, the doctor cannot always determine whether all fibroids have been removed. In some cases, small, inconspicuous nodules remain, which subsequently begin to develop. Embolization of the uterine arteries allows you to remove even subtle formations. After the emboli are introduced through the inguinal artery into the vascular system of the uterus, they enter the end vessels of the fibroids, clog the vessels, and lead to the death of the formations. The disintegration of nodes after the procedure takes a long time, sometimes the healing period takes about two years. The procedure is carried out very quickly, bloodlessly, under the control of X-ray equipment, and is performed by an experienced surgeon. Here you can. During the consultation, the doctor will tell you about all the positive aspects of uterine artery embolization, contraindications, and recovery periods after the procedure.

Bibliography

• Savitsky G. A., Ivanova R. D., Svechnikova F. A. The role of local hyperhormonemia in the pathogenesis of the growth rate of tumor nodes in uterine fibroids // Obstetrics and Gynecology. – 1983. – T. 4. – P. 13-16.
• Sidorova I.S. Uterine fibroids (modern aspects of etiology, pathogenesis, classification and prevention). In the book: Uterine fibroids. Ed. I.S. Sidorova. M: MIA 2003; 5-66.
• Meriakri A.V. Epidemiology and pathogenesis of uterine fibroids. Sib Med Journal 1998; 2:8-13.

Myoma is a benign neoplasm, the substrate for which is the muscle cells of the middle layer of the uterus - the myometrium. Fibroids are nodes that can be localized either subserousally, that is, fibroids grow towards the abdominal cavity, intramurally - in the thickness of the myometrium, and also submucosally - the formation grows towards the uterine cavity. The size of uterine fibroids can also vary from small to large, and have a gradation according to the size of the uterus, measured in weeks.

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What is an ovarian cyst? It is worth clearly distinguishing between the concepts of cyst and cystoma, since many people confuse these concepts and incorrectly interpret the information provided.

An ovarian cyst is a formation that has a capsule filled with liquid or semi-liquid contents. Cyst growth occurs due to an increase in fluid content and stretching of the cyst capsule.

Cysts are divided into the following formations:

1. A follicular ovarian cyst is a persistent follicle, that is, a dominant follicle that, for certain reasons, mainly due to hormonal imbalance, did not undergo ovulation, that is, did not burst, and the female reproductive cell did not come out of it. These formations are functional cysts that can be eliminated on their own. In some cases, a woman does not even know that she has a follicular cyst.
2. A corpus luteum cyst is also a functional formation that comes from the corpus luteum, which forms at the site of a ruptured follicle. When exposed to unfavorable factors, fluid contents accumulate in it and a cystic cavity forms.
3. A paraovarian cyst is formed from an anatomical structure such as the ovarian epididymis. These cysts are localized near the ovary and can reach quite large sizes.

And a cystoma is really a tumor that consists of benign, but still tumor cells. Its growth is carried out by dividing these cellular elements.

Cystomas include cystadenomas, endometrioid cysts that form during endometriosis and are the causes of infertility in such patients, dermoid cysts are neoplasms that may contain various embryonic elements: hair, teeth, bones, fat.

Uterine cyst and fibroids: clinical symptoms

Symptoms of uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts can give quite similar clinical symptoms. Among them are:

• Pain syndrome of varying severity. With an ovarian cyst, the pain is localized more in either the right or left iliac region, according to the location of the cyst on the ovary. Uterine fibroids are characterized by pain in the lower abdomen of a pulling nature, more diffuse localization.
• Symptoms of ovarian-menstrual cycle disorders can occur both with a cyst and with uterine fibroids. Menstruation becomes irregular, the amount of menstrual blood loss increases, and menstruation can be quite painful. intermenstrual acyclic uterine bleeding is also observed in some cases.

Uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts at the same time can quite often be characterized by the absence of pregnancy, that is, infertility.

Among the diagnostic methods that can help in identifying pathological formations are: a gynecological examination in the form of a bimanual examination of a woman by an obstetrician-gynecologist in a gynecological chair, during which the doctor can detect an increase in the uterus in size, as well as a pathological formation in the area of ​​the uterine appendages, ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs, which can easily indicate the presence of such processes; laparoscopy is also an informative method of not only diagnosis, but also treatment. A cyst, like a fibroid, can be removed using this approach if indicated.

Ovarian cyst uterine fibroids treatment

All representatives of the fair sex suffering from this combination of diagnoses are asking the question “how to treat uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts?

Both fibroids and cysts should receive therapeutic therapy; treatment of the uterus should be carried out taking into account many parameters, such as the patient’s age, the woman’s reproductive plans, and the size of the myomatous formation.

Uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts can be simultaneously treated with hormonal drugs in the form of combined oral contraceptives, gestagens. The whole essence of this therapy for cysts and myomatous formations comes down to balancing hormonal levels, reducing the influence of estrogens on the growth of such pathological neoplasms.

If ovarian cysts or uterine fibroids are large in size and there are severe clinical symptoms, such neoplasms are subject to surgical treatment. Myomatous nodes may be subject to uterine artery embolization, ultrasound ablation, laparoscopic, laparotomic, and in the case of submucosal nodes, hysteroscopic removal.

Currently, almost all ovarian cysts are removed using laparoscopic technologies, however, in the presence of large cysts, doctors may decide on laparotomy access.

If you have such symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor, as delay can cost a woman’s life. Since complications of these pathological processes can be rupture of the ovarian cyst, bleeding, torsion of the myomatous node on the leg, malnutrition of the node and its necrosis.

Therefore, no folk methods, no herb or prayer for uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts will help in preventing such dangerous complications. Only timely diagnosis and competent treatment will help preserve the health, reproductive function and life of the patient.

From the information presented in this article, it will become clear what ovarian fibroids and cysts are, and why these lesions are common in gynecology. What reasons lead to the development of the disease in a woman, how to eliminate the influence of provoking factors. How to identify fibroids and ovarian cysts at an early stage and start treatment on time. Basic principles of conservative and surgical treatment of pathologies. All answers to the above questions are presented to the reader.

What are uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts?

Such a concept as ovarian fibroids is absent in gynecological practice. The term fibroid itself means that the tumor is formed from muscle tissue that is not present in the ovary. This term was formed due to the illiteracy of the population. A distinctive feature of the course of tumor processes in the female genital organs is contiguity, that is, uterine fibroids often occur together with an ovarian cyst.

By definition, uterine fibroids are a benign tumor that develops in the muscle layer - the myometrium. The disease is widespread and accounts for about 25% of the total mass of gynecological diseases. The peak of manifestation occurs in late reproductive age (over 40 years) and menopause.

Translated from Greek, a cyst is a bag or bubble, respectively, the lesion is presented in the form of a bubble, the cavity of which is filled with liquid or semi-liquid contents. It is formed inside the female reproductive gland, and as it develops, it increases the volume of the ovary several times.

The main factor provoking the development of uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts is a hormonal imbalance in a woman’s body. The incidence of such lesions has increased due to the popularization of combined oral contraceptives. The main problem is the free supply of such compounds from pharmacies.

Attention! Hormonal medications prescribed by a gynecologist are safe if taken according to the rules. Independent choice of remedies, without prior laboratory testing of estrogen levels, can provoke a serious imbalance in the body.

Under the influence of artificial hormones, myomatous nodes grow. Progesterone can provoke active growth of ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids. The risk of benign tumors of the female reproductive system is increased for patients with the following disorders:

• changes in the functioning of the thyroid gland;
• obesity 2,3,4 degrees;
• diabetes;
• endometriosis.

The likelihood of developing hormone-dependent tumors increases in women after abortion and spontaneous termination of pregnancy. The reason is sudden changes in hormonal levels. Cystic formations in the ovaries more often occur in women during menopause. The risk factors listed in the list increase the likelihood of simultaneous manifestation of a cyst and uterine fibroids.

Reasons for the adjacent development of fibroids and cysts

The development of uterine fibroids and cystic formations in the ovaries depends on the hormonal balance in the woman’s body. Such formations are detected in women of childbearing and menopausal age, but are extremely rarely diagnosed in girls under the age of 18-20 years.

Attention! Uterine fibroids are considered a hormone-dependent tumor because its body contains many receptors that are sensitive to female sex hormones. Studies have found that progress in its development is observed with increasing concentrations of estrogen.

The list of main reasons that can trigger hormone imbalance and the development of uterine tumors and ovarian cysts includes:

• persistent menstrual irregularities;
• abortion;
• infertility;
• endometriosis;
• diabetes, thyroid lesions;
• use of an intrauterine device;
• hereditary predisposition.

The formation of fibroids occurs due to the death of smooth muscle cells, the division of myocytes and the formation of fibromyoma nodes. Against the background of this condition, a network of vessels develops that provide nutrition to the formation, and the fibroid continues its development.

An ovarian cyst can be functional and true:

• Functional (FCJ) is a neoplasm that occurs in the ovarian follicle during the period of ovulation. A mature follicle does not open, but continues its development and transformation into a bladder, the cavity of which contains liquid. Such cysts are not malignant, therefore, with timely treatment, they are safe and do not pose a threat to life. The danger manifests itself when the PCN reaches a significant size and bursts.
• True (cystadenoma) is often multilocular, life-threatening, and often develops into cancer. Development is due to the growth of cells that are not typical for the ovaries. Detected by ultrasound examination and treated surgically.

The risks of developing functional and true cysts cannot be underestimated; you need to be attentive to the body and pay attention to the symptoms of female diseases. Uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts are successfully treated in the early stages of development and are similar, but difficult to treat in advanced cases.

Characteristic symptoms

The main symptom to suspect the development of fibroids is menometrorrhagia. This term refers to bleeding that occurs outside the menstrual cycle and is profuse. The danger lies in the development of anemia, and its intensity depends on the size of the tumor. If the fibroid is large, the bleeding will be profuse.

Cystic formation is less dangerous than fibroids, but its diagnosis is complicated by the fact that at an early stage the symptoms are not visible. As it grows, sharp pain appears. If the cyst is located on the right, the pain radiates to the right side, its character is aching, constant, and intensifies during sexual intercourse and physical activity. With left-sided localization - to the left. Extramenstrual bleeding does not occur, but the cycle is disrupted.

When the cyst and uterine fibroids occur simultaneously, the female cycle is unstable. There is pain in the lower abdomen and heaviness in the back. Such symptoms intensify in the afternoon, after exercise, and do not disappear after taking analgesics and NSAIDs.

List of symptoms that occur when uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts occur simultaneously:

• pain in the back and lower abdomen;
• menstrual irregularities;
• impossibility of conception;
• bleeding not associated with menstrual bleeding;
• urinary disorders;
• constipation;
• symptoms of anemia.

If such symptoms appear, you need to undergo an examination immediately, because pathologies can take a poor course.

Diagnostics

To confirm the diagnosis, a gynecological examination is needed. If the fibroid reaches a significant size, it is palpated through the anterior abdominal wall; using a similar technique, an ovarian cyst can be detected. After the first suspicion of the development of a tumor process appears, the woman is sent for an ultrasound examination.

The list of all examinations to confirm the diagnosis and select treatment includes:

• gynecological examination;
• transvaginal or abdominal ultrasound;
• general and biochemical blood test;
• Analysis of urine;
• blood test for tumor markers;
• Laparoscopy is a diagnostic operation to take a tissue sample for histological examination.

Attention! A blood test for tumor markers is mandatory; this is the simplest and most painless method to suspect ovarian cancer.

How is the treatment carried out?

Treatment of ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids when they occur together is provided by a gynecologist. The following methods are used:

• Surgical intervention - the tumor is removed if it has reached a significant size or there is a risk of its degeneration into malignant.
• Drug treatment consists of taking synthetic hormones.

If the fibroids are small in size, the basis of treatment is antiprogestins - progesterone receptor blockers. Such drugs allow you to “cut off” the nutrition of the tumor and stop its growth.

Attention! For cysts and fibroids, doctors strongly do not recommend using folk remedies that ensure their “resorption.” The effects of this group of drugs are not enough to restore hormonal balance; in addition, they can reduce the effectiveness of medications prescribed by a doctor. It is impossible to cure a tumor with herbs.

If the cystic formation is small and benign, it is not removed. It is important to monitor the growth process of the ovarian cyst after 3 months using ultrasound, comparing the obtained indicators with previous data.

General list of indications for emergency cyst removal:

• drug treatment is not effective;
• the formation reaches 10 cm in diameter;
• there is a risk of developing a malignant tumor.

If the formation does not resolve within three cycles, it is removed. By laparoscopy, a cyst is removed with minimal damage to ovarian tissue in women of childbearing age. In the postoperative period, hormonal therapy is necessary for complete recovery; it reduces the risk of relapse.

List of indications for surgical treatment of uterine fibroids:

• the size of the tumor corresponds to the 8th week of pregnancy and continues to grow;
• acute pain;
• massive bleeding;
• disruptions in the functioning of nearby organs;
• risk of developing into cancer.

Removal of uterine fibroids is achieved in several ways:

• Laparotomy is an abdominal operation performed from the anterior abdominal wall. The method allows you to get a good overview of the cavity, but for a woman it is the most traumatic.
• Laparoscopy – endoscopic equipment is used to perform the operation; the operation is performed through punctures in the abdominal wall. It has a short recovery period.
• Hysteroscopy – performed using an optical hysteroscope, access to the uterus is provided through a puncture of the abdominal wall. The recovery period takes about 14 days.

Complications

Complications do not arise when monitoring the course and timely treatment or removal of ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids. Often the consequences can be traced to incorrect or untimely treatment. The list of common ones includes:

• massive blood loss due to fibroids;
• ovarian apoplexy - rupture of gonad tissue with hemorrhage;
• disturbance of the urination process;
• infertility.

Attention! With uterine fibroids, it is important to control its growth; untimely surgery will lead to the need to remove the female reproductive organ.

Uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts are dangerous gynecological diseases that are often asymptomatic in the early stages, so every woman should take the time to visit a doctor twice a year. Timely examinations and complete diagnosis help prevent complications.