Fibroids Specialist

What are fibroids?

Fibroids are the most common tumor found in the female reproductive system. They’re compact tumors of the uterus composed of fibrous connective tissue and smooth muscle cells. These tumors affect as many as half of all women of reproductive age, although many women aren’t aware of their existence.

Fibroids can range in size considerably. While some are too small to be seen by the naked eye, others are large enough to enlarge the uterus significantly.

What causes fibroids?

Fibroids usually develop during the childbearing years. Researchers don’t know exactly what causes these tumors to grow. However, some women are more likely to develop fibroids than others. Risk factors for fibroids include:

• Having a family history of fibroid tumors
• Being obese
• Beginning menstruation at an early age

What are the symptoms of fibroids?

Most fibroids cause no symptoms and may be found incidentally during testing conducted for other reasons. However, some fibroids may be symptomatic. Possible symptoms of uterine fibroids include:

• Heavier periods
• Periods that last more than seven days
• Pain or pressure in the pelvis
• Trouble emptying the bladder
• Urinating frequently
• Backaches
• Constipation

How are fibroids diagnosed?

In some cases, Dr. Thomas or Dr. Eericca will be able to feel a fibroid tumor during a pelvic exam. However, to confirm the diagnosis of a fibroid tumor, the doctor may order imaging tests, such as pelvic ultrasounds or hysterosalpingography. In some cases, the doctor may need to perform a hysteroscopy to look inside the uterus. During this procedure, a small camera is inserted into the uterus through the cervix.

How does Arizona Women’s Health Partners treat fibroids?

Fibroids are benign and unlikely to be dangerous. If women aren’t experiencing severe symptoms or don’t want to treat the condition, they may simply wait for the fibroids to go away on their own. In most cases, fibroids will shrink on their own after menopause.

In cases where fibroids are symptomatic and bothersome, Dr. Thomas or Dr. Eericca may recommend medication to shrink fibroids and/or relieve symptoms. Surgery to remove or destroy the fibroid may also be beneficial. In extreme cases, women may opt for a hysterectomy to remove the uterus entirely.