Uterine fibroid examination items

Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 22, 2024
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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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Post-surgical diet for uterine fibroids

Before passing gas after a myomectomy, we must avoid foods that produce gas, such as milk and soy milk, and only consume small amounts of water and clear soup. Once the patient has passed gas, they can be advised to eat easily digestible foods, such as congee and noodles. After the patient has had a bowel movement, they can resume a normal diet, but it should be light and avoid irritating foods, such as those high in oil, salt, and spices, as well as some stimulating beverages. After discharge, it is recommended that the patient eat more vegetables and high-fiber fruits, and avoid gas-producing foods, which typically include legumes, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and so on.

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Can you eat sea cucumber with uterine fibroids?

People with uterine fibroids can eat sea cucumber. The cause of uterine fibroids is not very clear at present. Studies have shown that uterine fibroids may be caused by chromosomal genetic misplacement in the body. However, since most uterine fibroids shrink after menopause, it is considered that uterine fibroids are related to increased levels of sex hormones in the body. Sea cucumber is a food that can enhance the immune system and has no relation to the formation of uterine fibroids. Therefore, people with uterine fibroids can eat sea cucumber.

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Early symptoms of uterine fibroid malignancy

Uterine fibroids are a type of benign lesion and generally grow slowly. Sometimes, even after several years of continuous re-examinations, the size of the uterine fibroids may not show significant changes. However, when uterine fibroids become malignant, their growth rate can accelerate, causing women to experience hidden pain in the lower abdomen. After the malignancy of uterine fibroids and an increase in size, they can also compress the pelvic floor nerves, leading to an intensification of abdominal pain; they can press forward against the bladder, causing frequent urination and urgency; and press backward against the rectum, resulting in changes in the characteristics of stools. Additionally, when some women's uterine fibroids turn malignant, they can also affect the surface area of the endometrium, impacting the menstrual cycle, such as causing irregular vaginal bleeding.

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How often should uterine fibroids be checked?

The follow-up timing after uterine fibroids depends on the current size of the fibroids and the symptoms. If the fibroids are particularly small and there are no symptoms, a follow-up after one year is generally acceptable. However, if during the follow-up the fibroids are found to have grown quickly, or if there are symptoms such as increased menstrual flow or a shortened cycle, a follow-up every six months may be warranted. Most uterine fibroids do not cause any symptoms and simply exist; they tend to grow gradually with age and generally shrink and disappear after menopause.

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How is uterine fibroid surgery performed?

When a woman has uterine fibroids, the surgical method should be decided based on the specific location, size, number of fibroids, age, and fertility requirements. If the uterine fibroid is relatively large, pretreatment can typically be carried out before the surgery. For example, using GNRHA-type drugs can reduce the size of uterine fibroids and lower the risk of surgery. Submucosal fibroids can be treated with hysteroscopic electroresection. Intramural or subserosal fibroids can be removed via laparoscopic surgery.