Fibroid tumors are common growths that develop inside the uterus. For some patients, these growths cause uncomfortable symptoms. Thomas Bickley, DO, and Eericca Bickley, DO, of Arizona Women’s Health Partners offer diagnosis and treatment to patients with the symptoms of fibroids in Mesa, AZ and serving Gilbert, AZ. Patients who think they may have fibroids can make an appointment for evaluation by contacting the office today.
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.
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:
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:
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.
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.
*We accept the majority of health insurance plans. Please call our office if you do not see yours listed or have any other questions. Please note to check with your insurance or call the office to make certain that we are on your specific insurance plan as they are constantly changing.*
