Uterine fibroids are a common condition that affects many women during their reproductive years. While these growths are non-cancerous, they can cause a range of symptoms that impact daily life, from heavy menstrual bleeding to pelvic discomfort.
Understanding fibroids and the full range of treatment options available can help patients make informed decisions about their care.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They are made of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary in size from very small to quite large.
Fibroids are extremely common, affecting up to 80% of women by age 50. Many women may not realize they have fibroids if they do not experience symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Fibroids
When symptoms occur, they may include:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Frequent urination
- Pain during intercourse
- Fertility challenges or pregnancy complications
Symptoms can range from mild to more disruptive, depending on the size, number, and location of fibroids.
What Causes Fibroids?
The exact cause of fibroids is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute:
- Hormonal influences, particularly estrogen and progesterone
- Family history
- Age and reproductive stage
Fibroids often grow during reproductive years and may shrink after menopause.
Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids
Treatment depends on symptoms, fibroid size and location, and individual goals such as future fertility. Options may include:
Medications
Hormonal treatments can help manage symptoms like heavy bleeding and pain, but they do not remove fibroids.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
Some treatments target fibroids without major surgery, offering shorter recovery times and fewer risks.
Surgical Options
- Myomectomy: Removes fibroids while preserving the uterus
- Hysterectomy: Removes the uterus and provides a definitive solution for fibroids
Each option has different benefits and considerations, and treatment is typically tailored to the individual.
Advanced, Minimally Invasive Treatment Options for Fibroids
In addition to traditional approaches, advances in technology have expanded options for treating fibroids with less disruption to the body.
At Boulder Medical Center’s Louisville location, OB-GYN Dr. Alison Schultz offers the Acessa® procedure, a minimally invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency ablation to shrink fibroids while preserving the uterus.
This approach may be an option for patients seeking relief from symptoms without undergoing more invasive surgery.
When to See a Provider for Fibroids
It may be time to seek care if you are experiencing:
- Heavy or prolonged periods
- Ongoing pelvic pain or pressure
- Changes in urinary frequency
- Difficulty with fertility
An evaluation can help determine whether fibroids are the cause and what treatment options may be appropriate.
OB-GYN Care for Fibroids in Louisville, Colorado
Dr. Alison Schultz provides evaluation, diagnosis, and a full range of treatment options for fibroid care, from medical management to advanced minimally invasive procedures, and is now offering the Acessa® procedure. Care is tailored to each person’s needs and goals.