Fibroid Management In Coral Springs, FL

What is a fibroid? Uterine fibroids or leiomyomas are small growths in the uterine wall from connective tissue and muscles. Fibroids are generally benign; in some cases, they may develop as a single nodule (growth) or clusters, ranging in size from 1mm to 8 inches.

These growths are pretty common, affecting around 40 to 80% of women. Still, establishing the correct number of people affected by them can be challenging because some women don’t experience any fibroid symptoms.

Fibroid Risks

Several risk factors may lead to leiomyomas, including the following:

• Obesity
• Not having children
• Getting your period at a younger age
• Family history of leiomyomas
• Entering menopause later

Fibroid Symptoms and Causes

The causes behind fibroids aren’t precisely understood. However, the symptoms are well documented. As mentioned above, some women might not experience any problems with them, while others (especially if the fibroids are larger) may experience several symptoms, including the following:

• Painful menstruation with excessive bleeding
• Bloating
• Bleeding between periods
• Painful intercourse
• Pain in the lower back
• Frequent need to urinate
• Chronic vaginal discharge
• Constipation
• Being unable to empty the bowel completely
• Increased abdominal distention

Are Fibroids Cancerous?

When patients ask, “What are fibroids,” they usually fear that these growths are malignant. Fortunately, these growths turn cancerous in only extremely rare cases. Unfortunately, no test can 100% predict cancerous fibroids, but when women experience rapid leiomyoma growth, providers immediately evaluate their situation and swiftly develop a treatment plan.

Diagnosing Fibroids

Typically, fibroids are discovered during routine exams, often felt during a pelvic exam, gyno exam, or prenatal care appointments.

Also, various tests can confirm the presence of leiomyomas:

• CT and MRI scan
• Ultrasonography
• Sonohysterography
• HSG or hysterosalpingography
• Hysteroscopy
• Laparoscopy

Treatment and Management

Fibroid treatment will depend on various factors such as the location, the size, the number of growths, and the symptoms the patient is experiencing. Those not experiencing discomfort because of fibroids usually won’t require any treatment.

Small fibroids will usually be left alone but monitored closely to ensure they don’t start growing rapidly.

When opting for the best form of treatment, your provider will also consider your fertility goals for the future.

Still, the most prevalent treatment options for fibroids generally include several different approaches.

Medications:

• Taking iron supplements
• OTC pain medications
• Taking GnRH agonists
• Birth control
• Different oral therapies

Surgery:

• Myomectomy
  • Laparoscopy
  • Hysteroscopy
  • Laparotomy
• Procedures that might/will prevent future pregnancies
  • Uterine fibroid embolization
  • Hysterectomy
  • Radiofrequency ablation

Learn More About Your Options

Getting the best possible treatment for this condition will depend on various factors. To find the option that fits your needs the most, contact us today so we can schedule an appointment.