Fibroids affect 40% to 80% of individuals with a uterus, most often in those aged 30 to 50. Many experience symptoms that impact fertility and quality of life. These growths can affect conception, making it important to understand their role in fertility for those planning parenthood.
At Advanced Women's Care of Pittsburgh, we provide expert fibroid care and support for your family-building journey. From treating uterine fibroids to IUI, we help women in Pittsburgh improve reproductive health. Worried about fibroids and fertility? We offer personalized solutions. Schedule an appointment to explore your options.
Learn about uterine fibroids, their impact on fertility, treatment options, and how to make informed decisions about your reproductive care.
Uterine Fibroids
Types of Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus, affecting many individuals of reproductive age. They vary in size, shape, and location, which can influence symptoms and reproductive outcomes. The exact cause of fibroids is unclear, but factors like hormone levels and blood flow may contribute to their growth. Fibroids tend to develop in different areas of the uterus and are classified as follows:
- Intramural fibroids: Found within the muscular wall of the uterus, often leading to pelvic pressure and uterine enlargement.
- Subserosal fibroids: Develop on the outer surface of the uterus, pressing on nearby organs and sometimes causing frequent urination or backache.
- Submucosal fibroids: Grow just beneath the uterine lining, impacting the uterine cavity and potentially leading to heavy uterine bleeding or pregnancy complications.
- Pedunculated fibroids: Attached to the uterine wall by a thin stalk, extending either inside or outside the uterus, occasionally causing severe pain.
Effects on Reproductive Health
Fibroids can significantly affect pregnancy outcomes and overall reproductive health. Submucosal fibroids, for example, may disrupt implantation by altering the uterine cavity or uterine lining. Large uterine fibroids or those located near critical areas can increase the risk of miscarriage, pregnancy loss, or complications like preterm delivery.
Fibroids may also block fallopian tubes or interfere with blood flow to the uterus, affecting fertility. By understanding these risk factors, individuals can make informed decisions about fibroid treatment to achieve their reproductive goals.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Fibroids often cause a range of symptoms that vary depending on their size, location, and number. Common symptoms include:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding or prolonged periods (heavy uterine bleeding)
- Pelvic pressure or severe pain
- Backache, leg pain, and frequent urination due to pressure on nearby organs
- Painful periods and difficulty with conception
- Pregnancy complications such as miscarriage or preterm labor
Managing Fibroids and Treatment Options
For symptomatic uterine fibroids, early diagnosis and regular monitoring are crucial. Imaging tests can reveal the number, size, and location of fibroids. Treatment options depend on severity and include non-surgical methods like uterine artery embolization (shrinking fibroids by reducing blood flow) or surgical options like myomectomy (removing fibroids). Patients with heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, or complications should work with their doctor to create a personalized treatment plan.
How We Treat Uterine Fibroids
Non-Surgical Options: Hormonal therapy and medications can manage symptoms, shrink fibroids, and slow their growth. These minimally invasive treatments provide significant relief without the need for surgery.
Minimally Invasive Procedures: Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a modern, minimally invasive treatment that shrinks fibroids by blocking their blood supply, preserving the uterus, and supporting future pregnancies. Another option is radiofrequency ablation, which uses heat to shrink fibroids and relieve symptoms.
Surgical Solutions: For severe cases or multiple fibroids, surgery may be recommended. Options include myomectomy, which removes fibroids while keeping the uterus, or hysterectomy, which removes the uterus entirely. The choice depends on factors like the number and size of fibroids and goals like future pregnancies. Pre-surgery hormone therapy may also be used to shrink fibroids and simplify the procedure.
Regular pelvic exams play a crucial role in detecting fibroids early, particularly for those at higher risk of developing fibroids. Our goal is to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to each patient, prioritizing symptom relief, preserving fertility, and improving the quality of life for most patients.
Uterine Fibroids Treated at Advanced Women’s Care of Pittsburgh
At Advanced Women’s Care of Pittsburgh, we provide expert, compassionate care for women’s health. Our specialists focus on advanced fibroid treatment, offering thorough diagnostics to address fibroid size and the impact on your menstrual cycle, as well as the best options in a supportive environment.
We also provide guidance on birth control and how it may relate to your treatment. Using a patient-centered approach, we listen to your concerns, explain your options, and create a treatment plan that fits your goals, including managing fibroid blood supply effectively.
Our facility offers non-invasive and surgical care in a comfortable setting. Whether you need help with fibroids, fertility, or pelvic pain, trust our expertise and commitment to improving your quality of life.
Manage Fibroids and Boost Fertility Today
Uterine fibroids can affect your quality of life, but effective solutions are available. Advanced Women's Care of Pittsburgh offers expert, personalized support.
Don’t wait to address your health concerns. Schedule an appointment with Advanced Women's Care of Pittsburgh today to explore our advanced fibroid treatment options and take the first step toward a healthier, happier you.
