Fibroids

What are fibroids?

Fibroids are noncancerous growths made of muscle tissue from the uterus. They are sometimes called myomas or leiomyomas. Fibroids can appear in different locations on, in, and around the uterus.

What causes fibroids?

While there is no known cause of fibroids, researchers know that hormone levels and genetics are involved. Fibroids occur most commonly in women between the ages of 30-40.

Symptoms of fibroids include:

• Changes in menstruation
• Painful menstruation
• Anemia
• Pain or pressure in the abdomen or lower back
• Difficulty urinating or having bowel movements
• Miscarriages
• Infertility

If you experience these symptoms and are at an elevated risk for fibroids, Dr. Ehiremen will perform a physical exam as well as various tests to get a diagnosis.

How are fibroids diagnosed?

Dr. Ehiremen will first perform a pelvic exam to check for any abnormalities in your pelvis. If he can feel areas of tenderness or swelling, he will perform a diagnostic ultrasound in the office. The ultrasound will help him see if there are abnormal growths in your pelvis, which may indicate fibroids. Other imaging, such as hysterosalpingography or sonohysterography, may also be performed to obtain more images before performing more invasive testing.

Based on the findings, Dr. Ehiremen may perform a hysteroscopy or laparoscopy to see the inside or outside of your uterus. These procedures involve inserting a tiny camera through your vagina and cervix into your uterus, or through incisions in your abdominal wall to your pelvic cavity.

Once Dr. Ehiremen has performed all the tests he needs, he will be able to identify the location and size of your fibroids and determine the best course of treatment.

How are fibroids treated?

In some cases, small fibroids that aren’t causing discomfort won’t need treatment. However, if you’re experiencing pain or severe bleeding, Dr. Ehiremen will discuss treatment options with you.

Hormonal medications, including birth control pills and gonadotropin releasing hormone agonists, can reduce abnormal menstrual bleeding and slow the growth of fibroids. And over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can be used to relieve mild pain.

If the treatments mentioned above aren’t effective, Dr. Ehiremen may recommend surgery, such as a myomectomy, hysterectomy or endometrial ablation. He may also recommend alternative treatments, such as radiofrequency ablation and anti-hormonal medications.

To get caring and compassionate treatment for your fibroids, book an appoint with TriState OBGYN PC online or over the phone today.