Fibroid Treatment in Rochester and Penfield, NY
Uterine fibroids are abnormal growths in a woman’s uterus. This condition is estimated to affect 70-80 percent of all women at some point during their life. Our OB/GYNs have extensive experience diagnosing and treating patients for fibroids. Call (585) 641-0399 to schedule an appointment at our office in Rochester or Penfield, NY today!
Common Causes of Uterine Fibroids
Unfortunately, it is not known as to what exactly causes uterine fibroids. However, there are many factors that increase a woman’s risk of developing these benign tumors, including:
- Genetics: A family history of uterine fibroids increases your chance of getting fibroids.
- Age: Women ages 30 and up are more prone to developing fibroids. After menopause, fibroids usually shrink on their own.
- Hormonal imbalance: An abnormal amount of estrogen and progesterone might cause the growth of fibroids. During pregnancy, women produce more estrogen and progesterone, making pregnancy another common cause of uterine fibroids.
- Diet: A diet that is high in red meat and ham has been proven to increase your chance of getting uterine fibroids. However, eating a lot of green vegetables can decrease your chance of developing fibroids.
- Race: African American women are among the most likely to experience fibroids, and are also at an increased risk for more severe cases than other racial groups.
Uterine Fibroids Symptoms
Most fibroids don’t cause any symptoms, so it can be difficult for most women to tell whether or not they actually have fibroids. When symptoms do present themselves, they often include heavy bleeding, frequent urination, painful intercourse, lower back pain, pelvic pain, and a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen.
If you experience these symptoms, your physician may perform an ultrasound, MRI, or X-ray to properly diagnose the condition.
Treatment Options at Gensee Valley OB/GYN
For women who do develop fibroids, doctors might recommend the following treatment options:
- Medications: Low-dose birth controls can help stop fibroids from growing. They can also control heavy bleeding. If pain is the only symptom, over-the-counter pain medicine will help.
- Surgery: If your fibroids cause moderate to severe symptoms, surgery might be the most effective form of treatment. Different procedures for uterine fibroids include:
- Myomectomy: Surgery to remove uterine fibroids without taking out healthy tissue.
- Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus.
- Endometrial Ablation: A specialized procedure used to remove the lining of the uterus and control heavy bleeding caused by fibroids.
Contact Genesee Valley OB/GYN for information on uterine fibroids.