Abstract

STUDY OF SYMPTOMS, COMPLICATIONS AND THERAPEUTIC OPTIONS FOR THE CLINICAL MANAGEMENT OF UTERINE FIBROIDS

*Rushda Jabbar, Iqra Khan, Mamoona Saleem, Sania Saleem, Dr. Bushra Ali Sherazi

ABSTRACT

Background: Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that originate in the uterus (womb). These growths are typically not cancerous (benign). Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors in women of childbearing age. Objectives: to observe the symptoms and significant complications, to evaluate the different treatment strategies for management of uterine fibroids and to observe the best therapeutic options. Methodology: An observational study was conducted in various government and private sector hospitals and clinics of Lahore. A data collection form was designed and was filled by reviewing patient reports and by a face-to-face interview with patients or their correspondents. The collected data was analyzed, and results were presented in the form of tables and graphs. Result: Majority of the patients were found to lie within the age range of 26-33 years (mean age). Most of the patients were suffering from asymptomatic uterine fibroids. About 60% of patients were reporting heavy menstrual bleeding and many of them were also having pelvic pain along with frequent urination. 82% of patients were facing pregnancy and delivery complications. Patients majorly go for surgical treatment rather than medication therapy. About 69% of patients were given Add-back therapy to relieve the side effects of GnRH agonists. Conclusion: A well-managed medication treatment strategy should be devised other than surgical treatment. The influence of pharmacist in providing proper counselling to the patients should be improved and the authorities should also utilize the services of pharmacist for optimizing medication therapy.

Keywords: Fibroids, complications, therapeutic options, clinical management, symptoms, GnRH (Gonadotropin-releasing hormone).