Tumors and the Uterus: An Important Organ Women Should Not Overlook

Uterus It is the source of the hormone diestrogen, a hormone that specifically indicates femininity. Another important role is that it functions in pregnancy, which is considered the most vital for women. Therefore, the uterus is an organ that should be cared for attentively, and every woman should not overlook it.

Why can tumors develop in the uterus?

Medical science has yet to find a definitive cause for uterine tumors. However, their occurrence is linked to the level of the hormone diestrogen, which is high in women of reproductive age between 20 and 50 years old. This hormone stimulates abnormal growth of uterine muscle cells.

Who is at risk of developing uterine tumors?

One of the top risk groups for developing " uterine tumors " is the group of " Working Women " who still have menstruation and have never had children. In contrast, women in menopause or postmenopausal stages have a lower chance of developing uterine tumors because their diestrogen levels decrease, causing tumors to shrink and eventually die off.

How can you tell if you have a uterine tumor?

Uterine tumors are a silent threat that often goes unnoticed. Over 50% of women are unaware they have it because the condition usually shows no symptoms or warning signs. Many only discover it during a pelvic exam or detailed annual health checkup. Raising awareness about this disease is important to help women pay attention and understand uterine tumors.

How do uterine tumors affect our lives?

Although tumors are not one of the body's 32 organs, don't panic just yet. First, we need to clearly understand how tumors can be harmful. There are two types of tumors: benign and cancerous.

Most detected tumors are benign, which is relatively safe because benign tumorshave only about a 1% chanceof becoming cancerous. This offers some reassurance that existing tumors are unlikely to cause premature death. Key factors stimulating uterine tumors include lifestyle, diet, and environmental influences that trigger abnormal growth of uterine muscle cells. These cells grow on the uterine wall or cavity, forming "uterine tumors" that can range in size from a pea to as large as a watermelon.

Tumor locationsin the uteruscan be roughly divided into five areas: outside the uterus, within the uterine muscle, inside the uterine cavity, at the cervix, and within the uterus itself. The most dangerous location is inside the uterus, as it may cause heavy bleeding. Conversely, tumors outside the uterus are the least dangerous.

Are you at risk for uterine tumors? Consider these factors:

• Women of reproductive age, between 20 and 50 years old.
• Women with abnormally high female hormone (diestrogen) levels.
• Women with a family history of cancer.

Important warning signs you should not ignore include these easy-to-recognize symptoms of uterine tumors:

• Abnormally heavy menstruation: periods that are heavier than usual or longer than before, such as lasting 3 days before but now 5 days, or using more sanitary pads than usual. Presence of large blood clots or increased menstrual pain requiring medication are also warning signs.
• Frequent urination or urinary leakage: if the tumor is large, it may press on the bladder causing frequent urination or even urinary retention.
• Pain or discomfort during intercourse may occur if the tumor grows into the vaginal canal or is located at the cervix.
• Constipation caused by tumor pressure on the rectum, which may grow and press on organs in the pelvic area.
• Bloating or fullness: a large tumor can cause abdominal discomfort, swelling, or enlargement in the lower abdomen or pelvic area.
• Difficulty conceiving or recurrent miscarriages may happen because the tumorgrowsinside the uterine cavity, potentially blocking the fallopian tubes and interfering with embryo implantation.

You can prevent uterine tumors yourself by:

• Avoiding contraceptives with high levels of estrogen hormones.
• Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight.
• Monitoring your body for any abnormal symptoms.
• Having annual health checkups including pelvic exams and ultrasounds.

If you suspect a uterine tumor, you shouldundergodiagnostic procedures with a gynecologist for a thorough examination.

How are uterine tumors treated?

Treatment varies depending on tumor size, symptoms, and other risk factors. Pain relief medication is suitable for small tumors or older patients at higher risk from other treatments. Medications may include those to reduce menstruation and alleviate pain. Surgery options include removing only the tumor or the entire uterus, via open abdominal surgery or laparoscopic surgery, which involves smaller incisions. Vaginal surgery is also an option with no abdominal scars, less pain, and quicker recovery but may be limited by tumor size, pelvic adhesions, or a narrow vagina.

Early detection of uterine abnormalities or tumors increases treatment effectiveness and reduces future complications. Regular uterine health care is key to good quality of life at every age.

Information provided by : Rear Admiral Dr. Sosakul BoonyawirojGynecologic Oncology Specialist, Women's Health CenterPhayathai 1 Hospital