Uterine fibroids affect more than 70% of women in the United States by age 50. If you’re experiencing severe cramping and heavy periods, schedule a fibroid evaluation at Dr. Javid OB/GYN today. Book your uterine fibroid exam online or call your nearest clinic at San Jose and Los Gatos.
Fibroids Q & A
What Causes Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids, also known as myomas, are growths that develop in the wall of your uterus. They’re usually benign (noncancerous) and vary dramatically in both size and quantity. You can develop uterine fibroids due to:
- Family history of fibroids
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Pregnancy
Fibroids aren’t well understood, but medical experts believe that these small growths develop when a single smooth muscular tissue cell repeatedly divides, until the firm, rubbery mass forms.
Do Uterine Fibroids Cause Symptoms?
Not always. Some women don’t even know they have uterine fibroids until they have a pelvic exam or ultrasound. In many cases, uterine fibroids are discovered during an exam when a woman complains of abnormally heavy periods. Sometimes fibroids can also lead to:
- Constant feeling of fullness
- Pain during intercourse
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Lower back pain
- Frequent urination
Occasionally, uterine fibroids can even affect your fertility. If you’re struggling to get pregnant or stay pregnant, your practitioner at Dr, Javid OB/GYN may evaluate you to see if you have fibroids.
Can I Get Treatment For Uterine Fibroids?
Absolutely. If your fibroids aren’t causing any problems, your OB/GYN may suggest monitoring them regularly to see if they grow before providing treatment. Usually, fibroids develop very slowly and shrink after menopause, so treatment isn’t always necessary.
But if pain and heavy periods — or even fertility — are lowering your quality of life, your dedicated physician at Dr. Javid OB/GYN may recommend treatment. Your uterine fibroid treatment can include:
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist medications to temporarily stop periods
- Birth control pills or an intrauterine device (IUD)
- Endometrial ablation
To resolve larger fibroids, you might need surgery. Uterine fibroid surgery, known as a myomectomy, is a minimally invasive procedure that involves carefully removing your fibroids while preserving surrounding healthy uterine tissue.
No matter how minor or how severe your fibroid-related symptoms are, rest assured, the compassionate team at Dr. Javid OB/GYN helps you find an effective solution.
Get relief from uterine fibroid discomfort by starting treatment at Dr. Javid OB/GYN right away. Book your evaluation online or call your most convenient location.