Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are noncancerous growths that develop within the muscular wall of the uterus. While fibroids are quite common, affecting up to 70-80% of women by age 50, they can cause a range of symptoms that impact a woman’s quality of life. At our clinic, we offer comprehensive diagnosis and treatment options for fibroids, tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
What Are Fibroids?
Fibroids are benign tumors composed of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue. They can vary in size, from tiny, undetectable nodules to large masses that distort the shape of the uterus. Fibroids can be classified based on their location within the uterus:
- Intramural Fibroids: Located within the muscular wall of the uterus.
- Submucosal Fibroids: Bulging into the uterine cavity.
- Subserosal Fibroids: Projecting to the outside of the uterus.
- Pedunculated Fibroids: Attached to the uterus by a stalk.
Symptoms of Fibroids
Many women with fibroids do not experience symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include:
- Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during periods, sometimes with blood clots.
- Prolonged Menstrual Periods: Menstrual cycles lasting more than seven days.
- Pelvic Pain and Pressure: Persistent pain or pressure in the pelvic region.
- Frequent Urination: Pressure on the bladder causing a frequent need to urinate.
- Constipation: Pressure on the rectum leading to bowel issues.
- Back and Leg Pain: Pain resulting from fibroids pressing on nerves.
- Reproductive Issues: Infertility, recurrent miscarriages, or complications during pregnancy.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of fibroids is not known, but several factors can increase the risk of developing them:
- Hormonal Factors: Estrogen and progesterone, hormones that stimulate the growth of the uterine lining, appear to promote the growth of fibroids.
- Genetic Factors: A family history of fibroids can increase your risk.
- Age: Fibroids are most common in women of reproductive age and tend to shrink after menopause.
- Ethnicity: African-American women are more likely to develop fibroids than women of other racial groups.
- Obesity: Higher body weight is associated with an increased risk of fibroids.
Diagnosis of Fibroids
To diagnose fibroids, our specialists use a combination of methods:
- Pelvic Examination: A physical exam to feel for irregularities in the shape of the uterus.
- Ultrasound: Imaging to visualize the size and location of fibroids.
- MRI: Detailed imaging to provide a clearer picture of fibroids and their effect on surrounding structures.
- Hysteroscopy: A procedure to look inside the uterus with a thin, lighted tube.
- Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to view the pelvic organs and diagnose fibroids.
Treatment Options for Fibroids
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, and your reproductive goals. Options include:
- Watchful Waiting: For asymptomatic fibroids, regular monitoring without active treatment.
- Medications: Hormonal therapies (like birth control pills, GnRH agonists) to manage symptoms but not eliminate fibroids.
- Radiological Procedures:
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- Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE): Cutting off the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink.
- Surgical Options:
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- Hysteroscopy resection of fibroids: Surgical removal of fibroids inside the uterine cavity.
- Myomectomy: Surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus, recommended for women who wish to maintain fertility.
- Hysterectomy: Complete removal of the uterus, a definitive solution for women who do not wish to have children or when other treatments fail.
- MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery (FUS): Noninvasive treatment using high-intensity ultrasound waves to destroy fibroids.
Personalized Care and Support
At our clinic, we provide individualized care for women with fibroids, considering each patient’s symptoms, treatment preferences, and reproductive plans.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to fibroids or have been diagnosed with fibroids, we are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the treatment options available to you.