Fibroids

What are fibroids?

Fibroids are noncancerous tumors that develop in your uterus. Many women don’t even realize they have them. 

If fibroids grow large enough, they can cause abdominal pain and other problems, such as heavy menstrual bleeding and pain during intercourse. Fibroids are also called uterine myomas, leiomyomas, or fibromas.

These firm, benign tumors are made of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue. They can develop within the walls of your uterus, on the outside of your uterus, or in the middle of your uterus. 

The cause of fibroids isn’t clear, but there are several contributing factors that may increase your chance of getting them.

>What are the risk factors for developing fibroids?

Genetic changes within the uterine muscles, hormone fluctuations, and heredity all play a role in whether or not you develop fibroids. If you have a mother or sister with fibroids, you’re at an increased risk of getting them. Black women are more likely to develop fibroids than other racial groups.

Additional risk factors for fibroids include:

• Early onset of menstruation
• Oral birth control pills
• Obesity
• A diet high in red meat and low in green vegetables
• Alcohol consumption
• Vitamin D deficiency

While fibroids aren’t usually threatening to your health, they can cause uncomfortable symptoms and health complications, such as abnormal menstrual bleeding, pelvic or back pain, and constipation.

What treatments are available for fibroids?

If you experience symptoms that may indicate the presence of fibroids, the team at The Women's Center can perform diagnostic testing to determine their size and location.

They may use in-office ultrasound testing to view the inside of your uterus. If you do have fibroids and you can benefit from treatment, your provider develops a personalized plan based on the size of the fibroids, your symptoms, and your overall health.

The full-service women’s health practice offers medical and surgical treatment options for fibroids. 

Your treatment plan may include a combination of methods such as:

• Dietary and lifestyle changes
• Medications
• Hormonal birth control
• Losing weight
• Myomectomy (surgery to remove larger growths)

The Women's Center uses state-of-the-art treatments, including minimally invasive surgical procedures like robotic surgery with the da Vinci® surgical system.

To schedule an evaluation to discuss your fibroid treatment options, call The Women's Center, PC, or request an appointment online.