What is a fibroid? They are round muscle growths that usually grow in the uterine walls. Uterine Fibroids are very common and are benign in over 98% of the cases. Most women with fibroids do not experience any symptoms. Other women suffer pain, heavy or irregular bleeding, urinary frequency, constipation, or other symptoms if the fibroids are compressing on other structures.
How is it diagnosed? A thorough history followed by an examination often can point to the diagnosis. If a woman is symptomatic, a pelvic ultrasound is then ordered to confirm the diagnosis and help determine the treatment options. Fibroids can exist within the uterine cavity, the uterine wall or on the outside of the uterus attached by a small stock.
How is it treated? Again, if a woman is not suffering any symptoms, the fibroids just need to be monitored yearly unless the she notices changes. For women with symptoms, treatment options are dependent on the severity and the location of the fibroids. Some can be managed with medication. More severe cases may require surgery to possibly remove the fibroids or the entire uterus. Fortunately, often times fibroids can be removed in minimally invasive way depending on thier location with the assistance of robotic surgery. This procedure is called a robotic myomectomy. In addition, sometimes fibroids can be removed hysteroscopically with no incisions. For both robotic and hysteroscopic procedures the patient often times can go home the same day.
If you have been diagnosed with fibroids or are having any of these symptoms, please schedule an appointment – we would like to help.
