Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are smooth muscle tumors that form on, or inside the muscle layers of the uterus. When small, fibroids may be entirely asymptomatic, however even small fibroids within the cavity of the uterus can cause bleeding and problems with fertility. Women with fibroids have up to a 25% decreased fertility rate. Women with fibroids will often not experience symptoms unless the fibroids begin to grow and/or multiply. If this occurs, women may experience the following symptoms:

• Severely heavy and painful menstrual periods
• Back and/or leg pain
• Painful intercourse
• Lower abdominal swelling
• Urinary frequency
• Constipation

If a woman has fibroids, and is asymptomatic, she may be observed. If symptoms are present, patients should come in for screening. An in-office ultrasound is the best way to screen for fibroids. An MRI is the best way to map fibroids before surgery. Treatment options can then be discussed. Treatments for uterine fibroids can be laparoscopic, robotic, hysteroscopic, or involve the use of radiofrequency energy. All of these options are minimally invasive and outpatient. Patients will be back to their active life soon.