Fibroids

What are fibroids?

Fibroids are noncancerous tumors that grow in the uterus and can vary in size and number. Fibroids are very common. As many as 80% of women develop a fibroid at some point during their childbearing years, most often between the ages of 30-40. 

You are at risk of developing a fibroid if they run in your family, you’re of African-American descent, or you’re obese. Your diet may also play a role in the development of fibroids. Eating a meat-based diet increases your risk, while eating more leafy greens lowers your risk.

What are fibroid symptoms?

Fibroids don’t always cause symptoms. In fact, you can have a fibroid come and go without even being aware of it. However, if you do experience symptoms from your fibroid, you may find that they affect your quality of life.

Some of the most common fibroid symptoms include:

• Pelvic pain
• Abnormal bleeding
• Constipation
• Increased urination
• Pain during intercourse
• Infertility

Fibroids can also enlarge the size of your abdominal area.

How are fibroids diagnosed?

Dr. Nikkhah Abyaneh can often identify a fibroid during your pelvic exam. However, to confirm a diagnosis, she may recommend an ultrasound. During this noninvasive painless procedure, she uses sound wave technology to generate images of your reproductive organs. This helps her confirm if you have a fibroid, and determine its location and size. 

In some cases, an MRI is needed to get a more accurate image of the fibroid, especially if the plan is to have it surgically removed. 

What are the treatments for fibroids?

Treatment for your fibroid depends on whether it’s causing symptoms. If your fibroid isn’t bothering you, Dr. Nikkhah Abyaneh may suggest monitoring the fibroid.

However, if your fibroid causes mild symptoms, she may suggest various treatments, such as:

• Hormonal birth control for abnormal bleeding
• Ibuprofen for pain control
• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHA) to shrink the fibroid

For moderate to severe symptoms, Dr. Nikkhah Abyaneh may suggest surgery to remove the fibroid, which is referred to as a myomectomy. However, this procedure may not prevent another fibroid from forming. If you don’t have any future pregnancy plans, Dr. Nikkhah Abyaneh may suggest a hysterectomy, which prevents future fibroid formation.

For an evaluation and treatment plan for your fibroid, contact Woodbridge Obstetrics & Gynecology by phone or online today.