Fibroids Q & A
What are fibroids?
Fibroids are growths in your uterus that range in size from microscopic to large masses. These growths are noncancerous and don't correlate with increased risks of uterine cancer.
Fibroids grow in the uterus in multiple locations, including:
Under the uterine lining surface
On the outside of the uterus
In the uterine muscle wall
Genetics or hormones are thought to be the cause of fibroids. They grow slowly and often disappear after menopause due to a change in your hormone levels. Fibroids also shrink during pregnancy.
You may develop fibroids at any point in your life. They are rare before the age of 20 and most common during your childbearing years. African American women are more susceptible to developing fibroids than other ethnic groups.
What are the symptoms of fibroids?
Symptoms of fibroids can mimic other conditions, so a proper diagnosis is essential. You may have fibroids if you experience:
Heavy bleeding during menstruation
Extended periods longer than a week
Pressure or pain in the pelvic region
Frequent need to urinate
Constipation
Pain in the back or legs
You can develop a single fibroid or multiple fibroids that grow together. If the mass becomes large enough, they can alter the shape of your uterus.
Fibroids don’t always produce symptoms. In many cases, Dr. Godat discovers fibroids during routine pelvic exams.
How are fibroids diagnosed?
Dr. Godat reviews your symptoms and the location of the pain or pressure you feel to determine if fibroids may be present. If a physical exam doesn’t offer results, he may employ an ultrasound to view your uterus and identify the fibroids.
Dr. Godat may also order blood work to determine if heavy menstrual bleeding is related to other medical conditions.
How are fibroids treated?
If Dr. Godat finds it necessary to remove fibroids, he may do so through minimally invasive surgical procedures. His primary goal is to preserve your uterus. In extreme cases, he may recommend more complex surgical options to eliminate fibroids permanently, including a hysterectomy.
Dr. Godat may also prescribe medications, including hormone therapies or birth control, to reduce menstrual bleeding without removing the fibroids.
Call the office to book an appointment and learn more about fibroid treatments.