What is a uterine fibroid?
Uterine fibroids are muscular tumors that typically grow along the wall of a woman’s uterus. While these are often not cancerous, they can provide symptoms that can make women uncomfortable and hard to live with. For example, fibroids can result in:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Painful periods
- Lower abdominal enlargement/fullness
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Lower back pain
- Frequent urination
- Complications during pregnancy and labor
- Reproductive concerns including infertility
What cause a uterine fibroid to develop?
It is unknown what causes uterine fibroids to develop, though research continues to believe that it is either genetic or hormonal. The cause for fibroids to grow or shrink may be linked to the hormones of estrogen and progesterone, and this is believed to be the cause for some as many fibroids grow rapidly during pregnancy when these hormone levels are higher than normal. Antihormone medication can cause them to shrink, and menopause can cause them to stop growing or shrink as well.
How are uterine fibroids treated?
Many women who have uterine fibroids will not have any symptoms, but for women who do, treatment is something they want to discuss with their doctor. There may be various factors to take into consideration when determining treatment, including the size and location of the fibroids. Asymptomatic fibroids can often be left alone unless they are resulting in difficulty conceiving. Treatment options often include prescription medications or surgical intervention.
Are you experiencing problems due to uterine fibroids?
Connect with the team at Northwest Women’s Center today in Houston, TX to book a consultation visit with our providers and discuss treatment options. The practice is conveniently located at 13215 Dotson Road, Ste. 200, and can be reached at (281) 444-3440.
