Uterine fibroids are benign growths that develop from the muscle tissue of the uterus. They are also called leiomyomas or myomas. Fibroids are most common in women age 30-40 years old but may occur at any age. The symptoms may include longer more frequent cycles, menstrual pain, pressure, enlarged uterus and infertility. Fibroids may also cause no symptoms at all and are rarely associated with cancer.
The diagnosis of fibroids may be made on pelvic exam, ultrasound, a hysteroscope which is a small camera inserted into the uterus or by laparoscopy which is a camera into the abdomen.
The treatment for fibroids varies depending on the location, size and the symptoms the fibroids are causing. Fibroids may be treated with medications to control bleeding or to shrink the fibroids or with surgery to remove the fibroids. The type of surgery or medications needed to treat your fibroids will be discussed with you at your visit.
.