Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are tumors that develop in the uterus, affecting up to 50% of women in their childbearing years.
What are uterine fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are tumors that develop in the uterus, affecting up to 50% of women in their childbearing years. Typically composed of fibrous connective tissue and smooth muscle cells, these tumors feel firm and compact. Uterine fibroids are usually benign and not associated with cancer. They can range in size considerably and may grow as large as a grapefruit.
What are the symptoms of fibroids?
Some women with fibroids don’t notice any symptoms. However, other women may experience:
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Lower back pain
- Heavy periods
- Longer periods
- Bleeding between periods
- Frequent urination
- A firm mass in the middle of the pelvis.
How does Dr. Silberstein diagnose fibroids?
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, Dr. Silberstein can inspect for fibroids. She will perform a pelvic examination to check for any masses in the uterus. Other tests may be used to diagnose as well, including x-rays, a transvaginal ultrasound, MRIs, hysterosalpingography, hysteroscopy, and endometrial biopsy. Blood tests may also be ordered to check for anemia related to a bleeding tumor.
Treatments for uterine fibroids in the greater Los Angeles area
Dr. Silberstein treats uterine fibroids using several different methods, depending on the specifics of your conditions. If you do not have significant symptoms and the fibroid is small, Dr. Silberstein may recommend simply monitoring the tumor. Most fibroids shrink on their own as the woman approaches menopause.
If the fibroid causes significant symptoms or is larger, Dr. Silberstein may use hormones to shrink the tumor. In some cases, she recommends eliminating the tumor through uterine artery embolization, surgery to remove the tumor or a hysterectomy. If you’re suffering from uterine fibroids, give our office a call at (818) 996-3200. Located in Tarzana, California, we help women in the greater Los Angeles area.