What can you do to detect uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids can be detected through gynecological ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, hysteroscopy, laparoscopy, diagnostic dilation and curettage, etc. Uterine fibroids are common benign tumors in the female reproductive system. They are mostly caused by abnormal hormone levels or genetic factors. There may be no obvious symptoms in the early stage. As the fibroids increase, symptoms such as abnormal menstruation and lower abdominal distension may occur.

1. Gynecological ultrasound

Gynecological ultrasound is the preferred method for diagnosing uterine fibroids, including transabdominal ultrasound and transvaginal ultrasound. Transvaginal ultrasound has higher resolution and can clearly display the size, number and location of fibroids, which is especially suitable for patients with posterior uterus or obesity. Ultrasonography can distinguish fibroids from adenomyosis, with fibroids typically appearing as well-circumscribed hypoechoic masses with surrounding blood flow signals. It is necessary to hold back urine and fill the bladder before the examination to improve the accuracy of transabdominal ultrasound.

2. Magnetic resonance imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging can produce multi-plane imaging and has high soft tissue contrast, and is suitable for evaluating giant fibroids, fibroids in special locations, or suspected malignant transformation. This examination can accurately measure the volume of fibroids, determine their relationship with the endometrium, and provide a basis for formulating surgical plans. For women preparing for pregnancy, MRI can determine whether fibroids are compressing the fallopian tubes or uterine cavity, but the cost is higher and the examination time is longer, so it is usually not used as a routine screening method.

3. Hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy can directly observe the shape, size and base width of submucosal fibroids in the uterine cavity, and can also perform biopsy or small myomectomy. This examination is suitable for patients with abnormal uterine bleeding and can identify endometrial polyps, endometrial cancer and other diseases. The examination needs to be performed 3-7 days after menstruation. Acute inflammation of the reproductive tract needs to be ruled out before surgery. Mild abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding may occur after surgery.

4. Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy has both diagnostic and therapeutic functions and is suitable for the evaluation of subserosal or broad ligament fibroids. By inserting an endoscope through a small incision in the abdominal wall, the relationship between the fibroid and surrounding organs can be visually determined, and fibroid removal or hysterectomy can be performed simultaneously during the operation. This examination requires general anesthesia, and postoperative infection prevention is required. There are risks such as intestinal injury and pneumoperitoneum-related complications.

5. Diagnostic curettage

Diagnostic dilation and curettage is mainly used to exclude endometrial lesions by scraping endometrial tissue for pathological examination. For patients with submucosal fibroids, the unevenness of the uterine cavity can be felt during dilation and curettage, but the specific size and location of the fibroids cannot be determined. This examination may lead to complications such as uterine perforation and intrauterine adhesions, and has been gradually replaced by hysteroscopy.

It is recommended that women of childbearing age undergo a gynecological physical examination every year. If they experience symptoms of increased menstrual flow, prolonged menstruation or anemia, they should seek medical advice promptly. Avoid long-term use of estrogen-containing health products and maintain a regular schedule and moderate exercise. After diagnosis of uterine fibroids, follow-up observation or surgical treatment should be selected according to age, symptoms and fertility needs, and avoid taking drugs for promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis without authorization.