Fibroids, noncancerous growths in or on the uterus, affect up to 70-80% of women by age 50. While often symptom-free, they can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pregnancy complications. Exploring effective treatments is key to improving life for those affected.
At Advanced Women's Care of Pittsburgh, we offer personalized prenatal, postpartum, and comprehensive care for every stage of a woman’s life. Our team helps women manage health concerns like fibroids with compassion and tailored treatment plans. If you’re experiencing fibroid symptoms or want to explore options, we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today to start your journey to better health.
Now, let's explore some of the most effective ways to treat fibroids and improve overall health.
What Are Fibroids, and How Do They Affect Women?
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or around the uterus, made of muscle and fibrous tissue. They vary by location: intramural fibroids grow in the uterine wall, submucosal fibroids protrude into the uterine cavity, and subserosal fibroids form on the outer surface. While the exact cause is unclear, hormonal changes, family history, and being of reproductive age increase the risk.
Fibroids can cause heavy or prolonged bleeding, painful periods, pelvic pressure, and fertility or pregnancy complications by affecting egg implantation or altering the uterus. Early medical guidance can help manage these impacts on health.
Symptoms to Watch Out For:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, also known as irregular menstrual bleeding, is a common symptom of uterine fibroids.
- Explain less obvious fibroid-related symptoms, such as frequent urination, lower back pain, or menstrual cramps.
- Stress the importance of recognizing fibroid symptoms early, as timely diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications.
- Pelvic pain or pressure is caused by large fibroids or subserosal fibroids growing in the pelvic area.
- Bloating or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen, often due to fibroid tissue or very large fibroids.
- Frequent urination due to pressure on the bladder from fibroids, including pedunculated fibroids.
- Pain during intercourse can be linked to the location or size of uterine fibroids.
- Lower back pain caused by fibroids pressing on surrounding structures.
Surgical vs. Non-surgical Treatment Options
Uterine Artery Embolization
Uterine artery embolization (UAE), also known as uterine fibroid embolization, is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that treats uterine fibroids by cutting off the blood supply to these noncancerous growths, causing them to shrink. This effective treatment option is ideal for managing fibroid-related symptoms without undergoing more invasive fibroid surgery. For those diagnosed with uterine fibroids, UAE offers a way to have uterine fibroids treated while avoiding the risks of traditional surgical methods.
In addition to embolization, medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or hormonal treatments can help manage symptoms like heavy menstrual periods, menstrual flow, and pain. Birth control may also regulate menstrual cycles and reduce heavy bleeding by addressing the impact on the blood vessels surrounding the fibroids.
Other Treatment Options
- Endometrial Ablation: This noninvasive treatment targets the inner lining of the uterus to reduce heavy menstrual periods and menstrual flow.
- Laparoscopic Radiofrequency Ablation: This surgical procedure uses small incisions to destroy fibroid tissue and shrink fibroids.
- Fibroid Removal Surgery: Also known as myomectomy, this option is used to remove fibroids, especially when submucosal fibroids grow, or for treating very large fibroids.
Lifestyle Modifications to Manage Fibroids
Maintaining a healthy weight is key, as excess body fat can affect hormone levels linked to fibroid growth and may influence how fibroids tend to develop. Stress management with techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can also help.
A healthy diet is important—focus on anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, and fatty fish, which can support blood flow, while cutting back on processed and sugary foods. Regular exercise, such as walking, swimming, or low-impact aerobics, improves circulation, manages weight, and reduces stress, which may help fibroids shrink or alleviate fibroid-related symptoms. These changes can complement medical treatments and alternative treatments to boost overall well-being.
Our Personalized Fibroid Treatment Plans
At Advanced Women's Care of Pittsburgh, we know every woman’s experience with fibroids is unique. That’s why we create treatment plans tailored to each patient. We start with a thorough diagnosis to assess the size, location, and impact of your fibroids. Then, we work with you to develop a personalized care plan, which may include minimally invasive procedures, medication, or lifestyle changes. Individualized care is at the core of what we do because we believe in providing solutions that fit your life and goals.
Get Expert Fibroid Care Today!
Managing fibroids doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Advanced Women's Care of Pittsburgh, we provide personalized treatment plans to improve your quality of life.
Don’t wait—schedule your appointment today. Our team is here to guide you through every step with expert care and support. Call us or visit our website to start your journey to a healthier, happier you.
