Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are common, noncancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus, often during childbearing years. While many women have fibroids without knowing it, others experience significant pain or heavy bleeding. At Ogeechee OBGYN, with locations in Statesboro, Swainsboro, and Sylvania, Georgia, the team specializes in diagnosing and managing fibroids using the latest medical and surgical techniques. If fibroid symptoms are impacting your quality of life, call the office or book an appointment online today.

What are uterine fibroids? 

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are growths made of muscle and fibrous tissue. They range in size from tiny seedlings, undetectable by the human eye, to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. Fibroids are not associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer and almost never develop into cancer.

The team classifies fibroids based on their location

• Intramural fibroids: Grow within the muscular uterine wall.
• Submucosal fibroids: Bulge into the uterine cavity.
• Subserosal fibroids: Project to the outside of the uterus.

What are the symptoms of fibroids? 

Many women with fibroids have no symptoms. However, for those who do, symptoms can be influenced by the location, size, and number of fibroids. Common signs include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding or periods that last more than a week.
• Pelvic pressure or pain.
• Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder.
• Constipation.
• Backache or leg pains.

In some cases, fibroids can interfere with fertility or cause complications during pregnancy, such as placental abruption or preterm labor.

How are fibroids diagnosed? 

The team at Ogeechee OBGYN often discovers fibroids during a routine pelvic exam. If the provider feels irregularities in the shape of the uterus, further diagnostic tests are ordered to confirm the diagnosis.

Common diagnostic tools include:

• Ultrasound: This imaging test uses sound waves to get a picture of the uterus to map and measure fibroids.
• Lab tests: If heavy bleeding is present, blood tests can check for anemia or other bleeding disorders.
• MRI: This provides a detailed image of the size and location of the fibroids and helps determine the best treatment approach.
• Hysteroscopy: A small, lighted telescope is inserted through the cervix to examine the inside of the uterus.

How are fibroids treated? 

The team develops individualized treatment plans based on the severity of symptoms and the patient’s desire for future pregnancy.

Treatment options may include:

• Watchful Waiting: For small fibroids that don’t cause symptoms.
• Medications: Hormonal birth control or GnRH agonists to regulate the menstrual cycle and shrink the growths.
• Non-invasive procedures: Such as uterine artery embolization to cut off the blood supply to the fibroids.
• Surgical Options: Myomectomy (removing only the fibroids) or hysterectomy (removing the uterus) for more severe cases.

The team at Ogeechee OBGYN is dedicated to providing relief from fibroid symptoms. To discuss a personalized care plan, call the office or book an appointment online today.