Irregular and Painful Menstruation: Beware of Uterine Myoma

Menstruation is a normal part of a woman's reproductive cycle, but for some women, menstruation can be a painful and irregular experience. This condition can be caused by various factors, one of which is uterine myoma. Uterine myomas, also known as uterine fibroids, are benign tumors that grow in or around the uterine wall. Although myomas are generally not malignant, this condition can cause health problems, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as severe pain and menstrual irregularities. This article will discuss further the relationship between irregular menstruation and pain and the presence of uterine myoma, as well as the importance of further examination.

What is uterine myoma?

Uterine myoma is an abnormal growth of muscle and fibrous tissue in or around the uterus. Myomas can grow in several parts of the uterus, including on the uterine wall (intramural), on the surface of the uterus (subserosa), or in the uterine cavity (submucosa). The exact cause of uterine myoma is not yet known, but several factors, such as the hormone estrogen, genetic factors, and family history, play a role in the development of this myoma.

According to data from the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, around 20–25% of women of reproductive age experience uterine myoma, with a higher incidence in women over 30 years old. Other risk factors, such as being overweight, excessive alcohol consumption, and an unhealthy lifestyle, can also increase a person's risk of developing uterine myoma.

Symptoms of Irregular and Painful Menstruation Due to Uterine Myoma

The most common symptoms of uterine fibroids include irregular menstruation and significant pain during menstruation. The following are some of the main symptoms that are often associated with uterine myoma:

1. Irregular Menstruation Uterine myomas can cause irregularities in the menstrual cycle. Women who have myomas may experience longer, heavier, or more frequent periods. Excessive bleeding during menstruation can also cause anemia or blood deficiency, which is characterized by symptoms of fatigue, dizziness, and paleness. 

2. Severe Menstrual Pain Pain associated with myomas generally occurs because myomas put pressure on the tissue around the uterus or even interfere with uterine muscle contractions. Submucous myomas that grow in the uterine cavity often cause severe pain during menstruation. 

3. Pelvic Pain or Back Pain Large myomas can press on organs around the uterus, such as the bladder or intestines, causing discomfort, pelvic pain, or even back pain.

The Importance of Early Detection and Treatment of Urine Myoma

Detecting uterine myoma early is very important to prevent serious complications. Myoma detection can be done through physical examination and diagnostic tools such as ultrasonography (USG) or MRI. If myoma is found, the doctor will determine the appropriate treatment steps based on the size, location, and symptoms experienced by the patient. 

Treatment methods for uterine myoma can include hormonal therapy, endometrial ablation procedures, myomectomy (removal of the myoma), or in more severe cases, hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). In Indonesia, technology and health facilities to treat uterine myoma are available in many large hospitals. One technology that is often used is minimally invasive procedures, such as laparoscopy, which allows for faster recovery and minimal pain.

Prevention and Self-Care

To prevent uterine myoma, there are several steps you can take, including maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining an ideal body weight. Consuming foods rich in fiber, low in fat, and avoiding alcohol can help maintain hormonal balance in the body, which plays an important role in preventing myoma growth. In addition, carrying out regular health checks and consulting a doctor if there are suspicious symptoms is very important.

Conclusion

Irregular menstruation and excessive pain can be signs of uterine myoma. This condition, although not malignant, can disrupt the quality of life and requires appropriate medical treatment. If you or someone close to you experiences these symptoms, it is important to immediately consult a doctor and carry out further tests. With a better understanding of symptoms and prevention, it is hoped that we can be more aware of uterine myoma and maintain optimal reproductive health. 

Downloading the Hermina Mobile Apps application will help you manage your health needs more easily and efficiently, especially for services at Hermina Arcamanik Hospital.

Reference

1. Kementerian Kesehatan Republik Indonesia. (2022). "Menjaga Kesehatan Reproduksi Wanita: Pentingnya Deteksi Dini Mioma Uteri."

2. Pusdatin Kemenkes RI. (2021). "Statistik Kesehatan Indonesia: Prevalensi Penyakit Wanita pada Usia Reproduksi."

3. Hadi, M. S., & Putri, A. T. (2020). "Mioma Uteri: Penyebab, Gejala, dan Penanganannya." Journal of Indonesian Obstetrics and Gynecology.

4. Harsono, W. (2019). "Mioma Uteri dan Kesehatan Reproduksi Wanita." Jakarta: Penerbit Kesehatan Indonesia.