Uterine Fibroids – Symptoms and Causes Q&A

At Cobb Women’s Health, we are committed to providing comprehensive care and support for women dealing with uterine fibroids, a common concern among our patients. Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus that can affect women of reproductive age. Understanding the factors that contribute to their development is essential for effective management and treatment.

Hormonal Factors: Our team recognizes the crucial role that estrogen and progesterone play in fibroid growth. These hormones are central to the menstrual cycle and can influence fibroid development, especially during the reproductive years. Our specialists often consider hormone levels when diagnosing and recommending treatment options, particularly for women experiencing significant symptoms.

Genetic Predisposition: We understand that genetic factors can increase susceptibility to fibroids, and we tailor our approach to each patient’s unique genetic background.

Age: Fibroids are most prevalent in women aged 30 to 50. We offer routine screenings and personalized care plans for women in this age group to manage or prevent fibroid-related complications.

Pregnancy and Fibroid Management: For pregnant patients with fibroids, our experienced team monitors fibroid growth and its potential impact on pregnancy. We offer personalized care to ensure both maternal and fetal well-being, understanding that fibroids may temporarily enlarge during pregnancy.

By understanding the complex factors that lead to uterine fibroids, Cobb Women’s Health empowers women to take control of their health. Our commitment is to provide compassionate, personalized, and effective care for all women dealing with fibroids.

Uterine fibroids can manifest a range of symptoms, which vary based on their size, location, and number. At our practice, we prioritize personalized care to address these symptoms effectively. Common issues include heavy menstrual bleeding, often resulting in prolonged periods or the passage of clots, which can lead to anemia. Our specialists are experienced in diagnosing and managing these symptoms to help alleviate discomfort and prevent complications.

We recognize that pelvic pain or pressure can significantly disrupt daily life. Whether you experience a persistent dull ache or sharp, intermittent pain, particularly during menstruation, our team is committed to providing relief through tailored treatment plans. We also address related symptoms such as frequent urination and constipation, which occur when fibroids press on the bladder or rectum.

Understanding the impact of fibroids on fertility and pregnancy is crucial. Our experts provide thorough evaluations and guidance to help manage any difficulties in conceiving or pregnancy-related complications. We also address concerns about an enlarged abdomen or sensations of fullness, which can be mistaken for weight gain or pregnancy.

Our diagnostic journey begins with a detailed medical history review and a meticulous pelvic examination conducted by our experienced healthcare providers. During this examination, we palpate the abdomen and uterus to detect any irregularities, such as an enlarged uterus or tenderness, which may suggest the presence of fibroids. Our clinicians are skilled at identifying the firm, round masses within the uterine wall, indicative of fibroids, and assessing changes in the uterine shape.

If fibroids are suspected, our go-to imaging test is the transvaginal ultrasound. This non-invasive procedure involves the insertion of a probe into the vagina to obtain a detailed view of the uterus.

For a direct view inside the uterus, we offer hysteroscopy, a procedure that involves inserting a thin, lighted instrument through the cervix. This allows us to confirm the presence of fibroids, determine their exact location, and understand their relationship to the uterine cavity.

Differentiating uterine fibroids from other pelvic masses, such as ovarian cysts, adenomyosis, or uterine cancer, is critical. Our comprehensive diagnostic approach ensures that we accurately determine the nature of the mass, guiding appropriate and effective treatment.

While they can impact fertility, many women with fibroids conceive naturally and have healthy pregnancies.

The influence of fibroids on your fertility is determined by their size, number, and location. Our team at Cobb Women’s Health is dedicated to providing personalized care to help you understand how fibroids may affect your pregnancy plans:

• Small fibroids located outside the uterine cavity often do not hinder conception.

• Larger or multiple fibroids, particularly those affecting the uterine cavity or fallopian tubes, might pose challenges to conception.

• Fibroids can alter the shape of the uterus, block the fallopian tubes, or affect uterine blood flow, potentially interfering with embryo implantation.

Types of Fibroids and Their Impact on Pregnancy

• Subserosal Fibroids: Found on the uterine surface, typically do not affect fertility.

• Intramural Fibroids: Located within the uterine wall, may obstruct the fallopian tubes.

• Submucosal Fibroids: Extend into the uterine cavity and are more likely to affect implantation.

The journey to conception with uterine fibroids can vary based on the fibroids’ characteristics. At Cobb Women’s Health, our goal is to provide you with the best medical guidance and treatment options. If you’ve been diagnosed with fibroids and are trying to conceive, our healthcare providers are here to discuss your unique situation and help you navigate your fertility journey confidently. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 1810 Mulkey Rd SW Suite 102, Austell, GA 30106! We serve patients from Austell GA, Lithia Springs GA, Mableton GA, Powder Springs GA, Douglasville GA, Fair Oaks GA, Hiram GA, Clarkdale GA, Smyrna GA, and Marietta GA.