Fibroid Specialist

Fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. There are different types of fibroid tumors, and they can be as tiny as a seed, as large as a melon, or any size in-between. They can cause a variety of symptoms ranging from severe cramps and abnormally heavy bleeding to pain during sex to constipation and incontinence.

All women of childbearing age are at risk for developing fibroids. However, there are a number of factors that make a woman more likely to develop fibroids, including: -Race: Black women are 3 times likelier to develop fibroids and are significantly more likely to experience severe symptoms -Earlier age of onset of menstruation – Women who started their period at a young age are more likely to have fibroids. -Obesity – Women who are overweight are 2-3 times more likely to develop fibroids. -Diet – Diets higher in saturated fat and meat have been linked to higher estrogen levels, which could lead to fibroids forming in and around the uterus. -Genetics/Family History – Women who have a family history of fibroids are 3 times more likely to develop fibroids. -Alcohol/Caffeine – Women who drink alcohol and/or higher levels of caffeine are at a higher risk of uterine fibroids. -Women who’ve never had children – The risk of fibroids is higher in women who’ve never given birth compared to women who have. -Age – Premenopausal women are 3-5 times more likely to develop fibroids.

Because they’re noncancerous, fibroids are usually not life-threatening. However, for women who suffer from fibroids, the symptoms may dramatically compromise their quality of life. Pain from severe cramping or during sex as well as discomfort and inconvenience from excessive bleeding, bladder pressure, etc., can have a debilitating effect on mood, emotions, and libido. So, while most fibroids aren’t life-threatening, many women find them to have a negative effect on their lifestyle.

Traditionally, doctors usually recommended that fibroids be treated by hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) or myomectomy (removal of the fibroids)—both major, invasive surgeries requiring hospitalization with long recovery times and other disadvantages, such as higher complication rates and potential organ loss. For over two decades now, minimally invasive UFE has been used to successfully treat fibroids and help women get back to their lives much more quickly. Know that even some physicians aren’t aware of the advantages of UFE over other options, but as the patient, you should get all the facts. And your doctor should support your learning about generally accepted, evidence-supported medical treatments in the context of your circumstances.

Fibroids may affect a woman’s ability to conceive for a number of reasons. Fibroids can create a physical barrier to pregnancy if they’re positioned in the uterus where the baby needs to be. Large fibroids may prevent a fetus from growing fully because of decreased room in the uterus. Fibroids blocking the cervix or fallopian tubes obstruct the journey or sperm of fertilized egg, preventing pregnancy from occurring.

Women with a family history of fibroids are at increased risk of developing them and are 3 times more likely to develop fibroids. Researchers believe that there may be a genetic component that relates to a woman’s susceptibility to developing fibroids. Some women develop fibroids without any family history, so women suspecting fibroids or experiencing symptoms should consult with a fibroid expert.