Hearing the word "tumor" is disconcerting for most women, but uterine fibroids are one type of tumor that are rarely serious. However, they can cause uncomfortable symptoms and are one of the leading causes of hysterectomies. Dr. Kompal Gadh of the Advanced OBGYN Institute are board-certified gynecologists who are skilled at helping women in Weston and Pembroke Pines, Florida, deal with the painful realities of fibroids.
Fibroids are tumors that develop from muscle tissue within the uterus. The vast majority of fibroids are benign, and they vary in size significantly. Small fibroids may go unnoticed, but large ones can cause problems.
Many women have fibroids with no problems or symptoms. When the fibroids are large or are in a place that they press on organs, they can cause symptoms such as:
Most women discover they have uterine fibroids when having their annual pelvic exams. Sometimes women will come to the Advanced OBGYN Institute for help with symptoms of their fibroids, but many women don't know they have them until they have a pelvic exam. Fibroids are confirmed through ultrasound.
Most fibroids need no treatment, and after menopause they shrink. However, if they do cause uncomfortable symptoms, women need to consider treatment. At the Advanced OBGYN Institute, Dr. Gadh will help patients determine if treatment is necessary or helpful. Treatment options include:
Most fibroids don't affect a woman's ability to become pregnant, but fibroids that grow during pregnancy can increase pain and pressure feelings. Having multiple fibroids increases a few risks slightly, including:
However, most women have minimal trouble with pregnancy in spite of the presence of fibroids.
Fewer than 1 in 1,000 fibroids are cancerous, and that particular type of cancer doesn't come from an existing fibroid. Fibroids don't increase a woman's risk of developing any form of uterine cancer. For more information about fibroids, schedule an appointment with the Advanced OBGYN Institute.
At Advanced OB / GYN Institute, we accept most major insurance plans. Please contact our office if you do not see your provider listed.