Uterine Fibroids Frequently Asked Questions
The highly trained OBGYN specialists at Augusta & Waterville Women’s Care have provided this list of frequently asked questions about fibroids to help educate patients on uterine fibroids and treatment options. Our specialists are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to women throughout Augusta and Waterville, ME. They will take the time to answer all of your questions. Call (207) 877-7477 to schedule an appointment at our office today!
What are Fibroids?
Fibroids are benign muscular tumors that can grow on the inside, outside, or within the wall of the uterus. They are different from uterine polyps and endometriosis because these conditions result in abnormal growth of endometrium tissue.
What are Fibroid Symptoms?
The majority of women have developed fibroids by the time they reach age 50, but not all women have symptoms. The most common symptoms are:
- Heavy bleeding during your period
- Feeling of fullness or noticeable enlargement of the pelvic area
- Frequent urination or incontinence
- Constipation
- Pain
What are my Fibroid Treatment Options in Waterville, ME?
If you have mild symptoms, medication to control the symptoms may be recommended first. For more significant symptoms, if the fibroid grows, or if the medication does not help, you may need surgery:
- Endometrial ablation: removing the lining of the uterus to control heavy bleeding.
- Myomectomy: surgery to remove fibroids, but leaving the uterus in place.
- Hysterectomy: surgery to remove the uterus.
- Uterine Fibroid Embolization: a minimally invasive procedure to block the blood supply to the fibroid, which causes it to shrink.
Should I Remove a Fibroid?
The best candidates for fibroid removal are women who have symptomatic fibroids that are causing heavy periods and/or pain from the size of the fibroid. It is also an alternative to a hysterectomy for women who do not want to undergo surgery to remove their uterus.
Will my Fibroid Symptoms go Away After Removal?
The success rate can be as high as 90%, so most women will see a quick improvement in the symptoms caused by fibroids. If the artery feeding the fibroid is not completely blocked, it could grow back, but this is rare. Most women do not need to pursue other treatments for fibroids.