Fibroids are a gynecological condition that can significantly affect your daily life. These non-cancerous growths can range in size from a small pea to a large grapefruit and can develop within or around your uterus. They can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain and pressure, and frequent urination. Fibroids can also interfere with your sexual activity, leading to pain during intercourse. In addition, large fibroids can cause a visible bulge in your abdomen, leading to self-consciousness and reduced self-esteem.
When diagnosing and treating fibroids, advanced medical imaging technology such as Siemens Ultrasound can play a crucial role. This state-of-the-art ultrasound system allows healthcare professionals to obtain detailed images of the pelvic region, helping to accurately identify the presence, size, and location of fibroids. With this information, doctors can create personalized treatment plans that may include medication, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery to address fibroid-related symptoms and improve the quality of life for affected individuals. Early detection and the use of advanced medical technologies like Siemens Ultrasound can make a significant difference in managing fibroids and ensuring better outcomes for patients.
Luckily, Andrew Doe MD, and his team at Alate Health offer effective treatments such as uterine fibroid embolization to shrink your fibroids and alleviate your symptoms. However, several beliefs about fibroids may delay or discourage you from seeking treatment. They include:
Fibroids only occur in women in their 30s and 40s
While it is true that fibroids are more prevalent in women of this age range, they can occur at any age, from adolescence through menopause. Some studies suggest that up to 80% of women will develop fibroids at some point, with African American women at higher risk. Several factors can trigger the development of fibroids, including genetics, hormonal imbalances, and lifestyle choices. While age is certainly a factor, it is not the only one.
A hysterectomy is the only treatment option for fibroids
Although a hysterectomy is an effective treatment for fibroids in some cases, it is not the only option available. Many other treatment options can effectively manage fibroids without requiring removing your uterus. The Alate Health team specializes in uterine fibroid embolization, which involves blocking the blood vessels that supply the fibroids and focused ultrasound, which uses high-frequency sound waves to destroy the fibroids. This treatment blocks blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and disappear over time.
Fibroids disappear after menopause
The growth of fibroids is hormone-dependent and can be influenced by changes in estrogen levels. However, they do not necessarily disappear after menopause because estrogen levels may still fluctuate even after menopause, and fibroids can continue to grow and cause symptoms. You may experience an increase in fibroid growth and symptoms after menopause due to the decrease in other hormones, such as progesterone.
All Fibroids Cause Pain
While it is true that some women with fibroids experience pain, not all women with fibroids have this symptom. Many women with fibroids are asymptomatic and may not even know they have the condition. Some women may experience debilitating pain, while others only feel mild discomfort. The severity of your pain will depend on the location and size of the growth and your pain tolerance.
Fibroids increase your risk of cancer
Although fibroids are very common, affecting up to 80% of women by age 50, there is a common myth that they increase the risk of developing cancer. However, this is not true. Fibroids and cancer can have similar symptoms, such as abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain, but the two conditions have distinct differences. Fibroids are benign growths that typically grow slowly and do not spread to other parts of your body. On the other hand, cancer is a malignant growth that can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs and spread to other parts of your body.
For more information about uterine fibroids, call the Alate Health office or book an appointment online.
