Fibroids are tiny growths that develop in your uterus for various reasons. About 20-50% of women of childbearing age have fibroids, and up to 77% develop them at some point. Fibroids are made of fibrous connective tissues and smooth muscle cells. They may not bother you; in more than 99% of cases, they aren’t cancerous. However, if you struggle with bothersome symptoms, treatment of the fibroids offers you relief.
You may also experience pain during intercourse, infertility, or pregnancy complications due to untreated fibroids. It’s common to have more than one symptom because of fibroids. If you experience severe symptoms, contact your OB/GYN specialist right away.
However, the exact cause of fibroids isn’t always clear, and anyone can develop them. Eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining an ideal body weight may reduce your risk of developing fibroids.
Your provider often diagnoses fibroids during routine pelvic exams in women. They press on your abdomen to feel for firm, irregular masses. They may also recommend blood testing, a pelvic ultrasound, an MRI, or a hysteroscopy to obtain a detailed view of the inside of your pelvic area.
They tailor each treatment to your needs and goals, always giving you a voice in your care plan.
