MYTH #1: All fibroids are cancerous growths in the uterus.
The first question most patients have is, “Are fibroids cancerous?” Fortunately, the answer is no! Fibroids are usually benign growths but rarely may be cancerous, especially in cases with sudden increases in the size of fibroid or growth of fibroid in menopausal females.
MYTH #2: Hysterectomy is the only effective treatment for uterine fibroids.
Thanks to medical advances, there are several minimally invasive alternatives to hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) like hysteroscopic myomectomy (Day care surgery) or laparoscopic myomectomy.
MYTH #3: If you have fibroids, you can't get pregnant or stay pregnant.
Not all fibroids affect your fertility. Your chances of conceiving and carrying your pregnancy to term can depend on many factors. If your fibroids cause fertility issues, treatment can help improve your odds of having children.
MYTH #4: Fibroids only affect women in their 30s and 40s.
Fibroids can affect women of all ages. Many women who have fibroids may not even be aware of them if there are no symptoms.
MYTH #5: Once fibroids are removed, they can't come back.
Unfortunately, new uterine fibroids may develop after treatment. If you're diagnosed with fibroids, you'll need to follow up with your gynecologist on a regular basis.
MYTH #6: If you have fibroids, you will definitely have heavy periods and pain.
Not all women with fibroids experience these symptoms. Other common symptoms include constipation, urinary symptoms, infertility, and backaches. At times, they are diagnosed on routine ultrasound.
MYTH #7: If fibroids are untreated, they will continue to grow.
Many women have small fibroids that don't grow or cause symptoms. They just need to be monitored.
MYTH #8: All fibroids must be removed.
Small asymptomatic fibroids can be monitored periodically. With asymptomatic fibroids, the risks of removal may outweigh the benefits.
MYTH #9: Taking medication can make fibroids disappear.
Some drugs may help shrink fibroids over time but these medications only work as long as you continue taking them. If you stop the medication, your symptoms may return, and your fibroids may
continue to grow. Some women also experience side effects from these medications. Surgical procedures may offer a better long-term option for many patients.
MYTH #10: Fibroids disappear after menopause.
Fibroids don't always disappear after menopause. Postmenopausal women can still require treatment for fibroids.