Uterine fibroids 101: What Are They & When Should You Seek Treatment
Some issues that affect a woman are fairly obvious and easily diagnosed. However, there are other some conditions that are less obvious and a little harder to diagnose like uterine fibroids. Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumor-like growths that grow in or on the walls of the uterus. Typically showing up during the childbirth years, uterine fibroids can cause problems.
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
Symptoms of uterine fibroids are not always present. In fact, many women have uterine fibroids and have no idea. The size of the fibroid can be as tiny as a seed or as large as a massive grapefruit in severe cases. Of course, larger uterine fibroids cause more symptoms. A few symptoms that can be present include:
- Backaches and pain that radiates down the legs
- Heavy or longer menstrual bleeding
- Difficulty urinating or emptying the bladder fully
- Pain or pressure in the pelvic region
- Constipation
When to Seek Treatment
Fibroids are rarely a sign of a serious problem and they can go away on their own. However, if you are experiencing certain symptoms, it is best to see your gynecologist for advice. For example, if you have heavier bleeding than usual, experience pain in your pelvic area that does not go away, or you are having difficulty emptying your bladder, these could be signs that the fibroid is either large or in an area that will cause you more problems. In severe cases, a uterine fibroid left untreated could cause anemia due to high blood loss and may interfere with your ability to carry a baby.
Overall, uterine fibroids can be a hassle, but they should not be a major worry. If you have symptoms and would like to see a doctor, reach out to us at Avant Gynecology for an appointment.
Avant Gynecology serves patients at two locations: Piedmont Hospital in Buckhead and Northside Hospital. Our mission at Avant Gynecology is to provide exceptional, compassionate care to women at every stage of their lives. Our providers strive to be at the forefront of knowledge and skill in the fields of women’s health and gynecologic surgery, so our patients can get the best care possible. Avant provides state-of-the-art surgery services and comprehensive gynecologic care, such as annual exams, diagnostic and screening tests; a full range of contraceptive options; specialized services such as bio-identical hormone therapy, hormone pellets, ThermiVa vaginal rejuvenation, and more.
