Uterine fibroids are one of the most common gynecological conditions, affecting more than 20% of women during their reproductive years. At Naples Women's Center in Naples, Florida, the team of professional women’s health experts have years of experience diagnosing and treating fibroids. While fibroids are noncancerous, they can cause symptoms like pelvic pain and heavy menstrual bleeding. Call today or schedule an appointment online.
Fibroids are growths that form in the smooth muscle of the uterus, also called the womb. Fibroids aren’t cancerous, but you can have very large fibroids or multiple fibroids that cause uncomfortable symptoms. The tumor may grow slowly or suddenly and can shrink over time.
Fibroids are common, affecting many women of childbearing age. Though researchers are still looking into what causes the development of these tumors, they theorize that genetics and hormones may play a role.
Your risk of having fibroids increases if it runs in your family, and fibroids tend to disappear once you reach menopause (when sex hormone levels decline).
Pelvic pain is one of the symptoms you may experience with fibroids. However, it’s possible to have the growths and not have any symptoms.
Other symptoms that occur with fibroids include:
Depending on the size and location, fibroids may also affect fertility, making it harder for you to get pregnant.
Your provider at Naples Women's Center may find fibroids during your annual exam. They order imaging tests such as an ultrasound or MRI to confirm a diagnosis and determine the location, size, and number of fibroids you have.
The team at Naples Women's Center customizes your fibroid treatment plan based on the severity of your symptoms. If you have asymptomatic fibroids, they may monitor the growths with regular office visits.
If your fibroids cause symptoms, the team may recommend:
If medical interventions fail to reduce your fibroid symptoms, the team at Naples Women's Center may recommend surgery to remove your fibroids (myomectomy) or your uterus (hysterectomy).
The team only recommends a hysterectomy for patients with no future pregnancy plans. Removing the fibroids alone may not prevent new tumors from growing, which is why gynecologists recommend a hysterectomy,
Call Naples Women's Center today or book an appointment online to learn more about treatment options for fibroids.