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.
Do You Experience Symptoms of Fibroids?
Take Risk Assessment NowSteps 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.
- 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.
- Talk to your doctor about your options if your symptoms worsen.
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
Can fibroids develop into cancer?
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 raise your risk of developing a cancerous fibroid or other uterine cancers.
In what ways can fibroids impact pregnancy?
Small to medium-sized fibroids that don’t cause symptoms typically won’t impact your ability to conceive or have a healthy pregnancy. However, fibroids can enlarge during pregnancy due to higher hormone levels and increased blood flow to the uterus. If they do grow, it’s usually within the first trimester. Generally, surgery is not required or done during this period. If you have fibroids and become pregnant, consult your doctor.
Can fibroids reappear after undergoing Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
UFE is a minimally invasive, image-guided treatment designed to obstruct blood flow to the fibroids in your uterus, leading to their gradual shrinkage. The effectiveness of UFE can differ based on factors like the fibroids’ location and number, as well as your general health. If the fibroids do recur, they typically grow at a slow rate. Nevertheless, research indicates that most women find their fibroids do not return after this procedure.