Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that are attached to or part of the muscular walls of the uterus. About 20 to 80 percent of women develop uterine fibroids by age 50.
If you’d like a diagnosis of your symptoms, call (702) 616-4900 or find a Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican doctor online who treats fibroids in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV. We also offer a variety of wellness classes and support groups as part of our commitment to providing high-quality women’s health services. Register for a class online today.
What Causes Fibroids?
No one knows exactly what causes uterine fibroids. Scientists think changing hormone levels and genetics might have a role in the development of fibroids.
Fibroid Symptoms to Watch
Signs of uterine fibroids include:
- Painful periods
- Menstrual periods that are longer than usual
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Vaginal bleeding between periods
- Feeling of fullness in the lower abdominal or pelvic area
- Pain during sex
- Frequent urination
- Enlarged abdomen and uterus
- Lower back pain
- Reproductive problems, including miscarriages and infertility
- Constipation
Symptoms of uterine fibroids vary from woman to woman. Some women do not have any obvious symptoms. Symptoms may depend on the number, size, and location of fibroids.
Uterine Fibroids Treatment & Prevention at Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican Hospitals
Prevention and treatment options depend on:
- Severity of symptoms
- Medical history
- Age
- Reproductive goals
- The number, size, and location of fibroids
Treatment options for uterine fibroids include:
- Surgery. A myomectomy is a surgical procedure for fibroid removal. The fibroids are taken out but the uterus is left intact. Surgical removal of the entire uterus — a hysterectomy — may be an option is a woman is done having children.
- Myolysis. Surgeons use extreme cold or electricity to destroy fibroids.
- Endometrial ablation. A procedure to take out the lining of the uterus to remove most fibroids.
- Uterine artery embolization. Cutting off the blood supply to fibroids by placing tiny gel or plastic particles in the arteries that lead to them can cause fibroids to shrink.
- Medications. For mild symptoms, over-the-counter pain relief can help with discomfort during your menstrual period. In more severe cases, a hormone-releasing IUD or birth control pills may be recommended to help reduce symptoms by regulating your hormone levels. Medications called gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists can also be used to shrink uterine fibroids.
All treatments have potential risks. Your health care provider will tell you about your treatment options and help you select the most appropriate course of action.
Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican doctors treat gynecology issues, including fibroids, in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV.
