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Uterine Fibroids Near Richmond, VA
Receive specialized treatment for uterine fibroids in a welcoming and compassionate setting.
What are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are benign growths that form within the uterus. They consist of both connective tissue, known as fibroblasts, and muscle cells. These growths are also referred to as myomas or leiomyomas. Fibroids can differ greatly in size, ranging from very small nodules to much larger masses, and they may lead to a variety of symptoms. Some individuals may carry fibroids without experiencing any noticeable issues, whereas others might face discomfort along with changes in their menstrual patterns. It is estimated that approximately 75% of women will develop at least one fibroid during their lifetime, although the majority of these cases do not result in any symptoms.
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
The signs and effects of uterine fibroids vary based on their size and where they develop. You may notice:
- 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 daily life, effective treatment options are available. The best approach is tailored to your individual needs, and our team is here to support you throughout the entire process.
How are Uterine Fibroids Treated?
At The Center for Advanced Gynecology, we offer treatment options tailored to your individual needs. Some fibroids may cause little to no discomfort and only need regular monitoring, while others could require medical intervention. Our team is experienced in both non-surgical approaches and advanced surgical techniques to address a variety of cases.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options:
- Hormonal therapy: Medications like birth control pills or GnRH agonists can help manage menstrual cycles and decrease excessive bleeding, though they might not fully stop fibroid growth.
- Lifestyle and nutritional guidance: Changes to your diet, regular physical activity, and stress reduction strategies can support overall health and help relieve symptoms.
- Minimally invasive procedures: Options such as uterine artery embolization (UAE) work by restricting blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink over time.
Surgical Treatment for Uterine Fibroids:
- Radiofrequency Ablation: A minimally invasive treatment aimed at reducing the size of fibroids. Although it can be performed laparoscopically, we often use an incision-free approach through the vaginal canal.
- Myomectomy: Surgically removes fibroids while keeping the uterus intact, making it a preferred option for individuals who wish to preserve fertility.
- Hysterectomy: Involves the removal of the uterus containing the fibroids, typically recommended when fibroids severely affect quality of life and future childbearing is not a concern.
Who Needs Uterine Fibroid Treatment in Richmond, VA?
You may require treatment for uterine fibroids if you notice any of the following:
- 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 need for treatment depends on the size of your fibroids and whether they are increasing in size. If fibroids are stable and not causing any symptoms, it is generally safe to leave them untreated. However, untreated uterine fibroids can result in persistent discomfort, heavy menstrual bleeding, and complications such as anemia or challenges with fertility. In certain situations, larger fibroids may exert pressure on nearby organs, leading to urinary or digestive difficulties. When symptoms become more severe or begin to impact daily life, seeking appropriate treatment can help manage these issues and prevent further complications.
What To Expect
If uterine fibroids are suspected, your healthcare provider will review your symptoms, medical history, and any concerns you may have. They will walk you through the evaluation process and answer questions before moving forward with an examination.
During the visit, your provider will perform a pelvic exam to determine the size and position of your uterus. Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, are typically recommended to confirm the presence of fibroids and identify their exact location and size. In some cases, more detailed imaging like a saline-infused ultrasound or MRI may be used to provide additional information that helps guide treatment planning.
Once the evaluation is complete, your provider will go over the results with you and outline the most appropriate treatment approach based on your symptoms and personal health goals. If treatment is indicated, all available options will be explained thoroughly, and you will have the chance to ask questions about the next steps in your care.
Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology
The Center for Advanced Gynecology, founded in 2018, is committed to enhancing your health by providing expert care across a variety of areas, with a particular emphasis on gynecological services and advanced surgical techniques when intervention is necessary.
Our team offers specialized expertise in the non-surgical management of chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, as well as vaginal, vulvar, and bladder discomfort.
Since opening, we have recognized the community’s need for comprehensive care beyond specialized services, and our practice has expanded to include routine gynecologic care, cancer screenings, Pap smears, menopausal support, management of hormonal imbalances, hormone replacement therapy, breast care, contraceptive counseling, urinary incontinence treatment, and pelvic organ prolapse management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically, your healthcare provider will begin with a pelvic examination to evaluate the size, shape, and position of the uterus. If fibroids are suspected, a pelvic ultrasound is usually the first imaging test performed, as it provides a clear view of the uterus and any abnormal growths. In some cases, additional imaging such as a saline-infused ultrasound or MRI may be recommended to obtain a more precise understanding of fibroid size, number, and location, helping guide potential treatment options.
There are multiple approaches to managing uterine fibroids and reducing heavy menstrual bleeding. Non-surgical options include medications, such as birth control pills, to regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate bleeding. Minimally invasive procedures, including uterine artery embolization or endometrial ablation, may also be considered for symptom relief. For cases with very heavy bleeding, surgical interventions such as fibroid ablation, myomectomy, or hysterectomy might be recommended depending on the severity of symptoms, the size and location of fibroids, and your overall health goals.
Yes, there are treatments available that can help reduce the size of fibroids without surgical intervention. Procedures like uterine fibroid embolization and radiofrequency ablation work by restricting blood flow to fibroid tissue, causing it to gradually shrink over time. Certain medications may also temporarily decrease fibroid size, although these effects are usually not permanent and ongoing monitoring is often required to track changes.
The number of fibroids varies widely between individuals. Some people in Richmond, VA develop only a single fibroid, while others may have multiple growths of different sizes. The location of each fibroid, whether embedded within the uterine wall or protruding into the uterine cavity, can significantly affect the type and severity of symptoms experienced.
Although the exact cause of fibroids is not fully understood, certain factors are known to increase the likelihood of their development. These include a family history of fibroids, hormonal fluctuations, and elevated estrogen levels. Additionally, lifestyle and dietary habits may influence the growth of fibroids, highlighting the importance of overall health and wellness in risk management.
The impact of fibroid treatment on fertility largely depends on the chosen approach. Procedures such as myomectomy remove fibroid tissue while preserving the uterus, allowing the possibility of future pregnancy. However, treatments that limit blood supply to fibroids, such as uterine artery embolization, may affect fertility. It is important to discuss your reproductive goals with your healthcare provider before deciding on any treatment option.