What are fibroids?
Fibroids, medically known as myomas, are tumors within your uterine walls. They range widely in size, from apple-seed-sized to as large as a grapefruit. In nearly all cases, fibroids are noncancerous.
However, that doesn't necessarily mean they're problem-free. While most women don't have serious fibroid symptoms, those who do can sometimes suffer severely.
What are the symptoms of fibroids?
Some of the symptoms fibroids cause may include:
- Very heavy bleeding during periods
- Highly painful periods
- Lower abdominal swelling
- Increased frequency of urination
- Painful intercourse
- Lower back pain
- Lower abdominal pressure
In some cases, fibroids can also contribute to infertility, although this is rare. Women who have fibroids are six times as likely to need a cesarean section when giving birth.
How are fibroids diagnosed?
Your OB/GYN at Georgia Center for Women may find the first signs of fibroids during your annual exam. To get more detailed information, your OB/GYN may also recommend a minimally invasive procedure like laparoscopy. Knowing the exact size and location of your fibroids allows your doctor to better design an effective treatment plan for you.
What is the treatment for fibroids?
Fibroid treatment depends on your specific needs.
Medications
There are several different kinds of medication that may help. Hormonal birth control, including the pill and other hormone-based methods like some IUDs, can reduce bleeding, pain, and other symptoms.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists can stop your periods and reduce your fibroid size. However, because they may have significant side effects, you can only use GnRH agonists for around six months. Your fibroids typically revert to their previous dimensions after you stop taking GnRH agonists.
Surgery
A minimally invasive myomectomy surgery with the da Vinci® robotic surgery system removes your fibroids and leaves your uterus intact, which preserves your fertility. A hysterectomy, also often done with the da Vinci robotic surgery system, removes your uterus, which ensures permanent fibroid removal but also ends fertility.
Your Georgia Center for Women OB/GYN reviews your fibroid treatment options with you to help you decide what's best for your needs. There's no reason to suffer from fibroid symptoms any longer.
Use the online booking tool or call the Georgia Center for Women office nearest you today.
