Service
Fibroids Specialists
Definition
What are fibroids?
Uterine fibroids develop out of muscle tissue in your uterus. Fibroids are quite common during your childbearing years and usually aren’t cancerous. The growths vary in size, from pea-sized to the size of a grapefruit, although most aren’t that large. You may have just a single uterine fibroid or several at one time.
In the majority of cases, uterine fibroids produce little to no symptoms. Most dissolve naturally on their own in time. However, fibroids can also cause uncomfortable symptoms, such as abnormal bleeding and other side effects.
How are fibroids diagnosed?
Your practitioner at Artemis Advanced Office Gynecology looks for the presence of fibroids with a pelvic exam or an ultrasound, which generates images of your uterus and other organs. Artemis Advanced Office Gynecology offers ultrasound services on-site. Sometimes your practitioner suggests a more powerful method, such as hysteroscopy.
What is hysteroscopy?
Hysteroscopy is a procedure to both detect uterine fibroids and to treat the growths. The method uses a slim device called a hysteroscope to view the inside of your uterus.
Before your hysteroscopy, your practitioner at Artemis Advanced Office Gynecology may give you medication first to help you relax. When you’re ready, they insert the hysteroscope into your uterus through your vagina and cervix.
If they see one or more fibroids, your practitioner uses other instruments to remove the growths, saving you from having to return for a second procedure.
What are the signs of fibroids?
You might notice one or more of the following symptoms with a uterine fibroid:
Longer than normal periods
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Pelvic pain
Painful intercourse
Menstrual cramps
What are my other treatment options for fibroids?
In other cases, the team at Artemis Advanced Office Gynecology recommends hormonal birth control methods or a hormonal IUD to help minimize the symptoms of uterine fibroids. For example, a hormonal IUD can reduce heavy bleeding. However, it doesn’t remove the fibroids.
For high-quality, personalized care for fibroids, rely on the team at Artemis Advanced Office Gynecology. Call the office or request a consultation online today.
Fibroids may affect your fertility, making it more challenging for you to conceive or remain pregnant. If you suspect you have a uterine fibroid, contact the team at Artemis Advanced Office Gynecology for an evaluation.