Uterine Fibroids in Charlottesville, VA

Get expert care for uterine fibroids in a comfortable and supportive environment.

What are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop from the uterus. They are made up of connective tissue (fibroblasts) and muscle cells. They are also called myomas or leiomyomas. While they vary in size, from tiny nodules to larger masses, they can cause a range of symptoms. Some people might have fibroids without any noticeable issues, while others experience discomfort and changes in their menstrual cycle. 75% of all women will develop one fibroid in their lifetime, but most will not have any symptoms.

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Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

The symptoms of uterine fibroids depend on their size and location. You might experience:

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 affecting your quality of life, treatment can help. The right approach depends on your specific needs, and we’re here to guide you through every step.

How are Uterine Fibroids Treated?

At The Center For Advanced Gynecology, we provide treatment options that align with your needs. While some fibroids cause minimal discomfort and require only monitoring, others might need medical intervention. Our team specializes in both non-surgical and advanced surgical techniques.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options:

Hormonal therapy: Birth control pills or GnRH agonists help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce heavy bleeding, but may not control fibroid growth.
Lifestyle and nutritional guidance: Adjustments to diet, exercise, and stress management can help improve overall well-being and ease symptoms.
Minimally invasive procedures: Techniques such as uterine artery embolization (UAE) shrink fibroids by cutting off their blood supply.

Surgical Treatment for Uterine Fibroids:

Radiofrequency Ablation: A minimally invasive procedure designed to shrink fibroids. While it can be performed through laparoscopic surgery, we prefer an incisionless approach through the vagina.
Myomectomy: Removes fibroids while preserving the uterus, ideal for those looking to maintain fertility.
Hysterectomy: Removes the uterus which contains the fibroids in cases where fibroids significantly impact quality of life and childbearing is no longer desired.

Who Needs Uterine Fibroid Treatment?

You might need uterine fibroid treatment if you experience:

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?

The answer depends on the size of the fibroids and whether they are growing. If they are not growing and not causing symptoms, then there is no harm in leaving them untreated. However, untreated uterine fibroids can lead to ongoing discomfort, heavy bleeding, and complications such as anemia or fertility challenges. In some cases, large fibroids might put pressure on surrounding organs, causing urinary or digestive issues. If symptoms worsen or interfere with your daily life, seeking treatment can help prevent further complications.

What To Expect

If uterine fibroids are suspected, your provider will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any concerns you have. They will explain the evaluation process and answer any questions before proceeding with an exam.

Your provider will perform a pelvic exam to assess the size and position of your uterus. An ultrasound or other imaging tests will be recommended to confirm the presence of fibroids and determine their location and size. Some tests, such as a saline infused ultrasound or MRI, provide a more detailed view and help guide treatment options.
After the evaluation, your provider will review the findings with you and discuss the best treatment approach based on your symptoms and health goals. If treatment is needed, your options will be explained in detail, and you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions about the next steps.

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Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology

The Center for Advanced Gynecology, established in 2018, is dedicated to improving your health by offering expertise in various areas, with a specific focus on gynecological care and advanced surgical techniques when surgery is needed.

Our team provides specialized expertise in non-surgical treatment of chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, and vaginal, vulvar, and bladder pain.

Since opening our doors, we have recognized the need in our community for more than just specialty care and have a growing practice in routine gynecologic care, cancer screening, Pap smears, menopausal management, hormonal imbalances, hormone replacement therapy, breast care, contraceptive care, urinary incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your healthcare provider will typically start with a pelvic exam to check for an enlarged uterus or irregular shape. If fibroids are suspected, the first imaging test is a pelvic ultrasound.

There are several ways to treat uterine fibroids and manage heavy menstrual bleeding. Options range from medication, such as birth control pills to help regulate the menstrual cycle, to minimally invasive procedures like uterine artery embolization or endometrial ablation. In cases of very heavy bleeding, surgical options such as fibroid ablation, myomectomy or hysterectomy could be recommended.

Yes, certain treatments can help shrink fibroids without the need for surgery. Uterine fibroid embolization and radiofrequency ablation work by reducing blood flow to the fibroid tissue, causing it to shrink over time. Some medications can also temporarily reduce fibroid size, but they are not a permanent solution.

There is no set number, as some people develop a single fibroid while others have multiple growths of varying sizes. The location of fibroids, whether within the wall of the uterus or extending into the uterine cavity, plays a role in the symptoms experienced.

While the exact cause is unknown, certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing fibroids. These include a family history of fibroids, hormonal fluctuations, and higher levels of estrogen. Lifestyle factors, such as diet, can also influence fibroid growth.

It depends on the treatment method. Some procedures, such as myomectomy, remove fibroid tissue while preserving the uterus, making pregnancy possible. However, treatments that reduce blood supply to the fibroids, like uterine artery embolization, could impact fertility. If you are planning to conceive, discuss your options with your healthcare provider.