A uterine fibroid is a benign (noncancerous) tumor of the uterus that typically develops during a woman’s childbearing years. While some women have no symptoms, others experience pain, pressure, bleeding or even infertility, says Nancy Cook, M.D., an obstetrician and gynecologist at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital.
Symptoms of uterine fibroids
In addition to pelvic pain or pressure, symptoms of uterine fibroids include:
- Prolonged menstrual periods (seven or more days) and/or heavy menstrual bleeding
- Constipation
- Frequent urination
- Trouble emptying the bladder
- Backache
- Leg pains
Treatment options
Dr. Cook says treatment depends on a woman’s age, the size of the fibroid and whether she plans to become pregnant in the future. Fibroids in the uterine lining are typically the most problematic, as they can lead to infertility. Treatment options include:
Watchful waiting
If the woman doesn’t have symptoms or the symptoms are mild, she may choose to forgo treatment and instead see her doctor for regular monitoring.
Minimally-invasive procedures
- Hysteroscopic myomectomy is an outpatient procedure sometimes performed with another procedure called a dilation and curettage (D&C). During this procedure, fibroids are removed from the uterus. This is an option for women who plan to become pregnant in the future.
- Uterine artery embolization, a procedure performed by a radiologist that blocks blood flow to the fibroids in the uterus. This procedure may not be a good option if you wish to become pregnant. While pregnancy is still possible, the odds are unclear.
Surgery
For women who do not plan to have a future pregnancy and have severe symptoms, a hysterectomy - the removal of the uterus - may be the best option.
To learn more about treatment for uterine fibroids, visit Piedmont Women’s Services.
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