Fibroids

Approximately 33% of women in the U.S. have uterine fibroids, which are abnormal, muscle-like growths that develop in the uterus.

Fortunately, fibroids are most often benign (non-cancerous). Still, they can cause bothersome symptoms in some women, including irregular or heavy menses and pelvic pain..

The providers at Plano Women’s Healthcare are highly skilled and have years of experience treating patients with fibroids. We will discuss your treatment options, answer all your questions, and help you decide which course of action is best.

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Plano TX

What Causes Uterine Fibroids?

Doctors still don’t know what causes uterine fibroids. However, research has shown that the following factors can play a role in whether someone develops them or not.

  • Family history of fibroids
  • Hormones
  • Levels of insulin-like growth factor
  • Race (black women are more susceptible to developing fibroids and often have more severe symptoms than women of other races)
  • Starting your period at an early age
  • Vitamin D deficiency
  • A diet high in red meat
  • A diet low in fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Alcohol consumption
  • Obesity
Plano TX

What Are the Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids?

Many women who have fibroids don’t experience symptoms. Those who do have symptoms tend to experience them in relation to the size, location, and number of fibroids they have. Some of the most common symptoms of uterine fibroids are:

  • Heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Menstrual periods that last longer than a week
  • Pelvic pain and/or pressure
  • Constipation
  • Difficulty emptying their bladder
  • Frequent urination
  • Abdominal pain
  • Backache
  • Leg pain

Conditions That Cause Symptoms Similar to Fibroids

Your healthcare provider will perform an exam and some diagnostic tests to determine whether you do indeed have uterine fibroids. The reason for this is because there are several other gynecologic conditions that can cause symptoms similar to fibroids. These include:

  • Endometriosis
  • Adenomyosis
  • Endometrial cancer
  • Ovarian cancer

It is important to talk to your doctor about your symptoms so they can rule out any serious conditions – and to help you get some relief!

Plano TX

How Will Your OB/GYN Diagnose Fibroids?

If you suspect you have fibroids, contact your Plano OB/GYN right away. They will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and order tests or imaging that can help them diagnose your condition. Some of the tests/images they may use include:

  • A pelvic examination
  • A pelvic ultrasound
  • An MRI
Plano TX

What Are the Treatment Options for Fibroids

During the initial phase of fibroid treatment, the goal is to control symptoms, particularly if you desire to have future pregnancies. Treatments generally involve hormonal medication or medications that decrease bleeding and other symptoms. You might be prescribed birth control, an IUD, or tranexamic acid.

When medications are ineffective, your OB/GYN has other options that can help treat your condition such as uterine artery embolization, myomectomy and hysterectomy. The procedure that is chosen will be based on the size and location of the fibroids.

If you’re interested in discussing fibroid treatment options, please contact our office for a consultation.

What is a Myomectomy?

There are different surgical techniques depending on the size and location of the fibroids.

  • Hysteroscopic myomectomy: Minimally invasive, 20-minute procedure in which the fibroids are “shaved down” or removed through the vagina
  • Robotic laparoscopic myomectomy: Another minimally invasive option in which small incisions are made in the abdomen to remove the fibroids
  • Surgical, open abdominal myomectomy: Your surgeon makes an incision along the bikini line to remove large or hard-to-reach fibroids

Since a myomectomy preserves the uterus, this procedure is an ideal option for women who want to get pregnant in the future.

Plano TX

Do My Fibroids Need to be Treated?

Not all fibroids are symptomatic, but those that are may impact your daily life. You may have to take time off work due to heavy bleeding during your period or pain, which you can experience whether you’re on your period or not.

Do You Have More Questions About Fibroids?

If you’ve been diagnosed with fibroids or have symptoms consistent with fibroids, our OB/GYN team can help! Our gynecologists will diagnose your symptoms and if you do have fibroids, they’ll discuss a wide range of treatment options available to you. They’ll also help you choose the best treatment plan for your needs and goals.

To Schedule a Consultation

Please call us today at 972-596-2470

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