Fibroids

Fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus. They are one of the most common gynecologic conditions, affecting up to 80% of women at some point in their lives. While fibroids are typically benign, they can cause a variety of symptoms and complications, and can even lead to infertility or pregnancy loss in some cases.

Symptoms of fibroids can vary depending on the size and location of the growths. Common symptoms include heavy or prolonged menstrual periods, pelvic pain or pressure, and frequent urination. Other symptoms can include constipation, backache, and difficulty becoming pregnant. In some cases, fibroids may not cause any symptoms at all.

Diagnosis of fibroids typically begins with a pelvic exam. Your doctor may also perform an ultrasound or MRI to get a better look at the growths. In some cases, a hysteroscopy or laparoscopy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and determine the size and location of the fibroids.

Common treatment options for fibroids include medication, surgery, and minimally invasive procedures. Medications such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists can reduce the size of fibroids, but must be used for short period of time due to their potential side effects. Surgery, such as a hysterectomy or myomectomy, can remove the fibroids, but is often a last resort due to the invasive nature of the procedure. Minimally invasive procedures, such as uterine artery embolization and MRI-guided ultrasound, can also be used to shrink or remove fibroids.