Your Guide to Uterine Fibroid Diagnosis and Treatment

If you suspect you have fibroids or are experiencing symptoms, it is essential to consult with an experienced vein specialist for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment recommendations. Your healthcare provider can help you make informed decisions regarding the management of fibroids based on your individual health and reproductive goals.

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are noncancerous growths that develop in the uterus. These growths can vary in size, number, and location within the uterine wall. For many women, fibroids remain asymptomatic and go undetected. 

However, for others, fibroids can lead to a range of symptoms and health concerns. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the diagnosis and treatment of uterine fibroids, answering key questions to help you better understand this common gynecological issue.

 

What Are Fibroids?

Fibroids are benign tumors that develop in the muscular wall of the uterus. They consist of smooth muscle cells and connective tissue and can vary in size, ranging from small, seed-like growths to large masses. 

The exact cause of fibroids is not fully understood, but several factors, including genetics and hormonal influences, may contribute to their development.

 

What Is the Main Cause of Fibroids?

The exact cause of fibroids is not definitively known, but several factors may contribute to their development, including genetics, hormonal imbalances (particularly estrogen and progesterone), and other growth factors.

 

What Are the Signs of Fibroids in a Woman?

Fibroids can develop at any age during a woman’s reproductive years, most commonly diagnosed in women in their 30s and 40s. Common signs and symptoms of fibroids in women include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding: Menstrual periods that are significantly heavier and longer than usual.
• Pelvic pain and pressure: Discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis.
• Frequent urination: The presence of fibroids near the bladder may lead to increased urinary frequency.
• Constipation: Fibroids pressing on the rectum can cause constipation.
• Backache or leg pains: Larger fibroids may exert pressure on nerves, leading to back and leg pain.
• Infertility or recurrent miscarriages: In some cases, fibroids can interfere with fertility and cause miscarriages.

 

Are Fibroids a Serious Problem?

While fibroids are typically non-cancerous, they can lead to a range of health issues, including severe pain, heavy bleeding, abdominal swelling, and reproductive problems. In some cases, the severity of fibroid symptoms can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. Thus, addressing fibroids is important for many women.

 

Do Fibroids Need to Be Removed?

The decision to remove fibroids depends on their size, location, and the severity of symptoms. Small, asymptomatic fibroids often do not require treatment. However, if fibroids cause substantial discomfort or impact a woman’s reproductive plans, treatment or removal may be recommended.

 

What Are The Fibroid Treatment Options?

The treatment of uterine fibroids depends on various factors, including the severity of symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, and a woman’s reproductive plans. Treatment options can be categorized as follows:

• Watchful Waiting: In cases where fibroids are small and asymptomatic, a “wait and see” approach may be recommended, with regular monitoring to track any changes in size or symptoms.
• Medication: Medical therapy can help manage fibroid-related symptoms. Options include hormonal birth control, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists.
• Minimally Invasive Procedures: These procedures aim to shrink or remove fibroids while preserving the uterus. They include uterine fibroid embolization, myomectomy, and radiofrequency ablation.
• Surgical Interventions: In cases of severe symptoms or large fibroids, surgical removal of the fibroids (myomectomy) or the entire uterus (hysterectomy) may be necessary.
• Focused Ultrasound Surgery (FUS): FUS is a noninvasive procedure that uses high-intensity ultrasound waves to target and shrink fibroids.

 

What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), also known as uterine artery embolization, is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure for uterine fibroids that has emerged as one of the best treatment options for uterine fibroids in many cases. UFE offers several advantages for women seeking relief from fibroid symptoms:

• Non-Surgical: UFE is a non-surgical procedure, which means there are no incisions, scars, or lengthy recovery times associated with traditional surgery.
• Preservation of Uterus: Unlike hysterectomy, which involves the removal of the entire uterus, UFE preserves the uterus. This is particularly important for women who wish to maintain their fertility or do not want to undergo a hysterectomy.
• Effective Symptom Relief: UFE is highly effective in relieving common fibroid symptoms, such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure. Many women experience significant improvement in their quality of life after the procedure.
• Minimally Invasive: During UFE, a radiologist makes a small incision in the groin area and threads a catheter through the blood vessels to the arteries that supply the fibroids. Small particles are then injected into these arteries to block blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink.
• Short Recovery Time: Recovery after UFE is typically shorter than that of traditional surgery. Most women can return to their regular activities within one to two weeks.
• Low Complication Rate: UFE has a relatively low risk of complications, and serious complications are rare. It is considered a safe and well-tolerated procedure.
• Outpatient Procedure: In most cases, UFE is performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day.

 

While UFE is a highly effective treatment option for many women with fibroids, it may not be suitable for everyone. The decision to pursue UFE should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider who can evaluate individual circumstances and provide personalized recommendations. You can read more about the recovery process after UFE.

 

Can Women Get Pregnant with Fibroids?

In many cases, women with fibroids can still conceive and carry a pregnancy to term. However, the impact of fibroids on fertility varies. The location of the fibroids, their size, and the extent of symptoms all play a role in determining their effect on fertility. If fertility issues arise due to fibroids, medical interventions may be considered.

 

How Can I Get Rid of Fibroids Without Surgery?

Some women seek natural approaches to manage fibroid symptoms. While natural remedies may not eliminate fibroids, they can help alleviate symptoms. These approaches include dietary changes, herbal remedies, stress management, and lifestyle adjustments. 

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before attempting any natural remedies to ensure safety and effectiveness.

 

Can a Fibroid Come Out by Itself?

In some cases, submucosal fibroids (those located in the uterine cavity) may be expelled naturally. This occurrence, known as fibroid expulsion, can lead to vaginal bleeding and pain. However, not all fibroids will come out by themselves, and most require medical intervention if they cause symptoms.

 

What Irritates Fibroids?

Fibroids can be irritated or exacerbated by hormonal fluctuations, such as changes in estrogen and progesterone levels. This can lead to increased symptoms, such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pain.

 

Can Fibroids Come Out as Blood Clots?

Fibroids can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, which may result in the passage of blood clots during menstruation. This is a common symptom of fibroids and can be managed through medical treatment.

 

How Many Months Does It Take a Fibroid to Shrink?

The time it takes for a fibroid to shrink depends on the chosen treatment method. Some medical therapies may take several months to show results, while other treatments, such as focused ultrasound surgery, can lead to more rapid fibroid shrinkage.

 

Speak to Dr. Robert Azizi From South California in Bell Gardens, Buena Park & Korea Town.       

If you’re struggling with Fibroids, come in for a consultation – you will be in the best hands with Dr. Robert Azizi. With years of experience treating vascular conditions, Dr. Azizi can help you achieve relief from your symptoms and get on with living your best lives. Book an appointment today.