Uterine Fibroid Treatment Near Lynchburg, VA
Experience expert care for uterine fibroids in a warm, supportive, and compassionate environment.
What are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop within the uterine wall. They are composed of muscle cells and connective tissue known as fibroblasts. Often referred to as myomas or leiomyomas, fibroids can differ greatly in size, ranging from tiny nodules to large, palpable masses. Some people may have fibroids without noticing any symptoms, while others may experience pelvic discomfort or changes in their menstrual patterns. Research suggests that up to 75% of women will develop at least one fibroid during their lifetime, although the majority will remain asymptomatic.
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
The effects of uterine fibroids can differ depending on their size and location. Possible symptoms include:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Frequent urination
- Constipation or bloating
- Pain during intercourse
- Lower back pain
- Difficulty getting pregnant
If these symptoms are interfering with your everyday activities, pursuing treatment can help restore comfort and improve quality of life. The treatment plan will be customized to your specific needs, and our team will be with you every step of the way to provide guidance and support.
How are Uterine Fibroids Treated?
At The Center for Advanced Gynecology, we provide personalized treatment options for patients in Lynchburg, Virginia, and nearby communities. While some fibroids remain small and asymptomatic, requiring only routine observation, others may necessitate active medical intervention. Our team is skilled in both non-surgical management and advanced surgical procedures to ensure each patient receives the most effective and appropriate care.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options:
- Hormonal Therapy: Medications including birth control pills or GnRH agonists can assist in regulating menstrual cycles and reducing excessive bleeding, although they may not completely stop fibroid growth.
- Lifestyle and Nutritional Guidance: Adopting a balanced diet, maintaining a consistent exercise routine, and incorporating stress management techniques can promote overall wellness and help ease fibroid-related symptoms.
- Minimally Invasive Procedures: Techniques such as uterine artery embolization (UAE) work by cutting off the blood supply to fibroids, gradually causing them to shrink and relieve associated symptoms over time.
- Surgical Treatment for Uterine Fibroids: Radiofrequency Ablation: This minimally invasive procedure is designed to shrink fibroids. While it can be performed laparoscopically, our preferred method avoids incisions and is carried out through the vaginal approach.
- Myomectomy: This surgery removes fibroid tissue while preserving the uterus, making it an ideal choice for individuals who want to maintain their fertility.
- Hysterectomy: This surgical intervention entails removing the uterus along with the fibroids and is generally recommended for patients whose quality of life is significantly impacted or who do not plan to have children in the future.
Who Needs Uterine Fibroid Treatment?
Treatment for uterine fibroids may be necessary if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding disrupts daily life
- Pelvic pain or pressure affecting movement or activities
- Frequent urination causing urgency
- Constipation or bloating due to fibroid growth
- Pain during intercourse that impacts sexual health
- Lower back pain unrelated to injury
- Difficulty getting pregnant due to fibroids
- Rapid fibroid growth with noticeable size increase
- Anemia from blood loss leading to fatigue or weakness
- Unmanageable symptoms affecting quality of life
What are the Risks of Leaving Fibroids Untreated?
Whether uterine fibroids need medical intervention generally depends on their size and whether they are continuing to grow. Fibroids that remain stable and do not produce noticeable symptoms are often monitored without immediate treatment. However, leaving fibroids untreated can sometimes lead to ongoing discomfort, heavy menstrual bleeding, and potential complications such as anemia or challenges with fertility. In certain cases, larger fibroids may exert pressure on surrounding organs, causing urinary difficulties or digestive issues. When symptoms become more pronounced or begin to interfere with everyday life, seeking treatment can help prevent further complications and improve overall well-being.
What To Expect
When there is a suspicion of uterine fibroids, your healthcare provider will start by having a detailed conversation about your symptoms, personal medical history, and any concerns you may have. They will take the time to explain the full evaluation process and answer all questions thoroughly before proceeding to any physical assessment.
Following the initial discussion, your provider will perform a pelvic examination to evaluate the size, shape, and positioning of your uterus. To confirm the presence of fibroids and accurately map their location and dimensions, imaging tests such as a standard ultrasound are typically recommended. In some situations, more advanced imaging techniques, including saline-infused ultrasound or MRI, may be utilized to provide additional clarity and guide the selection of the most effective treatment approach.
Once the evaluation is complete, your provider will review the findings with you in detail and present treatment strategies tailored to your specific symptoms and personal health priorities. If intervention is required, they will carefully explain all available options and provide ample opportunity for questions, ensuring that you are fully informed before moving forward with any care plan.
Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology
Founded in 2018, the Center for Advanced Gynecology is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of patients in Lynchburg, Virginia, and surrounding areas by providing expert care across a wide range of gynecological services, with particular emphasis on advanced surgical procedures when intervention is required.
In addition, our team offers focused expertise in non-surgical approaches for managing chronic pelvic pain, discomfort during sexual activity, pudendal neuralgia, and pain affecting the vaginal, vulvar, and bladder regions.
Since our establishment, we have recognized the community’s need for comprehensive care beyond specialized services and have expanded our offerings to include routine gynecologic care, cancer screenings, Pap tests, menopausal support, management of hormonal imbalances, hormone replacement therapy, breast health services, contraceptive counseling, urinary incontinence treatments, and management of pelvic organ prolapse.