Uterine Fibroids Specialist
Zeid Pelvic Health Center
Gynecology & Urogynecology located in Huntsville, TX
Uterine fibroids are a common gynecological problem that affects women during their childbearing years. Many women may not even realize they have uterine fibroids until an annual pelvic exam discovers them. However, uterine fibroids may be the underlying cause of your pelvic pain or heavy menstrual bleeding. Yasser Zeid, MD, FACOG, FPMRS, a dual board-certified OB/GYN, at Zeid Pelvic Health Center in Huntsville, Texas, specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of uterine fibroids. He offers many innovative treatment options to alleviate symptoms. Call the office or book an appointment online today.
Uterine Fibroids Q & A
What are uterine fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous muscular tumors that grow in the uterus. They’re very common and vary in size and number.
Researchers are still investigating what causes women to develop uterine fibroids but theorize hormones and genetics may play a role. For example, fibroids grow quickly during pregnancy because of an increase in hormone levels and shrink when women reach menopause.
You may be at greater risk of developing uterine fibroids if they run in your family.
What are the symptoms of uterine fibroids?
In most women, uterine fibroids don’t cause symptoms. However, these benign tumors may be the underlying cause of your:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Frequent urination
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Growing waistline
Uterine fibroids may also make it harder for you to conceive. And, when present during pregnancy, a fibroid significantly increases your need for a cesarean section during labor and delivery.
How are uterine fibroids diagnosed?
As noted, your uterine fibroid(s) may be found incidentally during your annual well-woman exam. To confirm that you have uterine fibroids, your provider at Zeid Pelvic Health Center may request an ultrasound test.
They may request additional diagnostic tests if an ultrasound test fails to provide enough information about the size and location of your uterine fibroids. Testing may include an MRI, hysterosonography (infusion of saline into the uterus to improve ultrasound imaging), or hysteroscopy (an endoscopic procedure that evaluates the inside of your uterus).
Zeid Pelvic Health Center also has an in-house laboratory to run blood work to check for anemia if you’re experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding because of your fibroid(s).
How are uterine fibroids treated?
Treatment for uterine fibroids depends on your symptoms. If your fibroids don’t bother you, your provider at Zeid Pelvic Health Center may simply monitor your fibroids with regular ultrasound testing.
However, if your fibroids cause symptoms, treatment may include:
- Over-the-counter pain medication
- Iron supplements for excessive blood loss
- Hormonal birth control to decrease menstrual bleeding
- Anti-hormone medication to shrink the fibroid
Zeid Pelvic Health Center also offers in-office procedures and laparoscopic surgery as a treatment option for fibroids and related symptoms. Procedures for uterine fibroids may include a radiofrequency ablation or a myomectomy.
To schedule a consultation to discuss treatment options for uterine fibroids, call Zeid Pelvic Health Center, or book an appointment online today.