Fibroid Diagnosis
How are uterine fibroids identified?
Getting an accurate diagnosis is essential for finding the right treatment for uterine fibroids and improving your overall quality of life. Many women often wonder how to tell if they have fibroids. Typically, uterine fibroids are detected during a routine pelvic or well-woman exam at your annual gynecologist visit. If you have been diagnosed with uterine fibroids, Fibroid Clinic can assist you. Our experienced physicians specialize in diagnosing and treating uterine fibroids. During a comprehensive consultation at our clinic, we will conduct diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of fibroids and determine the most effective treatment plan.
Diagnostic Tests for Uterine Fibroids
Our doctor identifies uterine fibroids through different techniques. Usually, the initial method is an ultrasound. For more intricate situations, an MRI and additional tests may be required. If you exhibit symptoms of uterine fibroids, your physician may recommend the diagnostic tests listed below to confirm the presence of fibroids and assess their size and location.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a reliable and non-invasive method for detecting fibroids. This examination makes use of sound waves to produce images of the uterus and ovaries. Depending on the uterus’s size, the ultrasound may be conducted either transvaginally or transabdominally. The test typically lasts between 30 and 60 minutes and does not use radiation.
MRI
Sometimes, an ultrasound might not offer sufficient details. An MRI, however, provides your doctor with a comprehensive view of the number, size, and precise location of the fibroids. Every patient being assessed for Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) will undergo an MRI. This lasts approximately 45 to 60 minutes and does not use radiation.
Do You Experience Symptoms of Fibroids?
Steps to Take Following Your Diagnosis
After we receive your test results, we will review them with you and decide whether treatment is needed. Often, uterine fibroids do not need medical treatment. However, if your symptoms are severe, or depending on the size, location, and number of fibroids, treatment might be necessary. Your doctor may suggest specific medications and lifestyle adjustments to manage your symptoms.
- Talk to your doctor about your options if your symptoms worsen.
- Reduce your blood pressure
- Use the medication as directed by your prescription.
- Keep track of your symptoms
- Consume a nutritious diet.
- Engage in physical activity consistently.
Treatment For Fibroids
If you have been diagnosed with fibroids and your symptoms worsen, additional treatment may be necessary. Many women who are diagnosed with uterine fibroids think that a hysterectomy is their only option. Yet, thanks to medical progress and advanced imaging techniques, doctors can now treat fibroids effectively and safely without surgery. Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that requires only a small incision. UFE provides the following benefits:
- More gentle than surgery
- Without a hospital admission
- Without any surgery scars
- Reduced complications
- Faster recovery period
- Efficient alleviation of symptoms caused by fibroids
Fibroid FAQ
Uterine fibroids are generally non-cancerous, with cancerous ones being extremely rare, occurring in fewer than one in 1,000 cases. The rare cancerous fibroid is called uterine leiomyosarcoma (ULMS). Most women with fibroids do not show symptoms, and only a small fraction will need medical intervention. Having uterine fibroids does not increase your risk of developing a cancerous fibroid or other uterine cancers.