What are fibroids?
As many as 50% of women have fibroids at some point in their lives, although many don’t realize it.
Fibroids are tumors made of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue that grow in your uterus.
Fibroids may be as large as a grapefruit. Most fibroids are benign (not cancerous), but may cause discomfort and other symptoms.
What are fibroids symptoms?
Some women have fibroids without symptoms. Other women experience moderate or severe symptoms caused by fibroids, including:
- Pelvic area pain
- Lower back pain
- Frequent urination
- Painful intercourse
- Heavy periods
- Prolonged menstrual periods
- Irregular periods
- Bleeding between periods
If you experience fibroid symptoms, schedule an appointment with Dr. Giles to rule out other causes and determine your treatment options.
How are fibroids diagnosed?
Dr. Giles conducts a pelvic exam to determine whether you have fibroids. She checks for the presence of a firm, irregular mass.
If the pelvic exam is inconclusive, Dr. Giles uses one or more of the following diagnostic tests:
- Transvaginal ultrasound
- X-ray
- MRI
- Endometrial biopsy
- Hysterosalpingography (X-ray examination with a special dye)
- Hysteroscopy (visual examination of your cervical canal and uterus using a hysteroscope)
Can fibroids cause anemia?
Heavy bleeding from fibroids can cause anemia. Dr. Giles may run a blood test if you have fibroids to check whether they are bleeding and causing iron-deficiency anemia. Removal of fibroids causing anemia is necessary.
What treatments are available for fibroids?
Most women don’t need fibroid treatment. You can expect Dr. Giles to watch your symptoms and monitor the growth of your fibroids. If the fibroids aren’t growing or causing pain or other symptoms, you may not need any treatment.
For moderate or severe fibroid symptoms, Dr. Giles recommends hormone-blocking medication, painkillers, or surgical procedures.
A myomectomy to remove the fibroids is performed for women who wish to have the option of pregnancy. A hysterectomy to remove the uterus is performed for women who no longer want to get pregnant and who suffer from recurring fibroids.
Don’t ignore pelvic-area pain or heavy periods. If you’re experiencing symptoms of fibroids, call the practice or schedule an appointment online today.
