Fibroids

What are fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous tumors that grow in or on your uterine wall. Fibroids vary significantly between patients. You might have a single fibroid or several, and they range in size from as small as a grain of rice to the circumference of a grapefruit. 

There are three different types of fibroids, which are classified on where they grow on the uterus. 

• Submucosal fibroids - in the uterine cavity
• Intramural fibroids - develop inside the walls of the uterus
• Subserosal fibroids - emerge on the outside of your uterus

Fibroids are a prevalent women’s health issue, although many women might have fibroids but not have any symptoms. Your risk of developing fibroids peaks when you’re in your 30s and 40s. Your chances of having fibroids also increase if you have a family history of the condition or if you’re obese. 

What are the symptoms of fibroids?

Most women who have fibroids don’t have any symptoms. However, if you have multiple or very large fibroids, you could have symptoms, such as:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Painful periods
• Swelling in the lower abdomen
• Frequent urination
• Painful sex
• Low back pain
• Reproductive problems
• Pregnancy complications

You should always consult with a trusted women’s health care provider if you have abnormally painful or heavy periods or pain during sex. Artemis OB/GYN offers exams and testing to identify the root cause of your symptoms. 

How are fibroids diagnosed?

Artemis OB/GYN providers begin with a comprehensive consultation and a pelvic exam to diagnose fibroids. They also use hysteroscopy to examine the inside of your uterus.

A hysteroscope is a thin device that your doctor inserts into your uterus. The procedure is performed at the Artemis OB/GYN office or in a hospital with minimal discomfort for you. In some cases, your doctor can remove fibroids or other growths during your hysteroscopy. 

How are fibroids treated?

Artemis OB/GYN provides customized treatments for fibroids. Depending on your needs, your provider might recommend taking medication to ease your symptoms. If your fibroids are large or causing disruptive symptoms, they might remove them during your hysteroscopy or suggest myomectomy, or in severe cases, a hysterectomy. Artemis OB/GYN offers robotic surgery options as well as minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures. 

Myomectomy is a surgery to remove fibroids. It leaves your uterus intact and can increase your chances of becoming pregnant if your fibroids are interfering with your fertility.

A hysterectomy removes your uterus and is only suitable if you don’t intend on becoming pregnant in the future or if other treatments haven’t effectively treated your fibroids.

If you’re concerned about fibroids, call Artemis OB/GYN or make an appointment online today.