Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop within or around the uterus. Also known as leiomyomas or myomas, fibroids are one of the most common gynecological conditions affecting women during their reproductive years. They can vary in size, number, and location, and while some women experience no symptoms, others may develop significant discomfort that affects their quality of life.

Fibroids are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue and can develop in different areas of the uterus. Depending on their size and location, they may cause symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure symptoms, fertility concerns, or pregnancy-related complications.

Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding

Pelvic pain or pressure

Frequent urination

Constipation or bowel pressure

Abdominal bloating or enlargement

Pain during intercourse

Difficulty conceiving

Pregnancy-related complications

Lower back pain

The exact cause of fibroids remains unclear; however, several factors may contribute to their development.

Hormonal Influence

Estrogen and progesterone play a significant role in the growth of fibroids during the reproductive years.

Genetic Factors

A family history of fibroids may increase the likelihood of developing the condition.

Age and Reproductive Factors

Fibroids are most commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 30 and 50 years.

Lifestyle Factors

Obesity, dietary habits, and other lifestyle factors may contribute to fibroid growth.

Accurate diagnosis helps determine the size, location, and impact of fibroids and guides treatment decisions.

Medical History

Your doctor will discuss your symptoms, menstrual history, fertility goals, and overall health.

Pelvic Examination

A physical examination may identify an enlarged or irregularly shaped uterus.

Ultrasound Scan

Pelvic and transvaginal ultrasound scans are commonly used to confirm the presence of fibroids.

MRI Scan

MRI may be recommended in selected cases to evaluate complex fibroids and plan treatment.

Treatment is individualized based on symptoms, fibroid size, fertility plans, age, and overall health.

Conservative Management

Many fibroids do not require surgery. Small fibroids with minimal symptoms may simply be monitored through regular follow-up examinations and imaging studies.

Medical Management

Medications may be prescribed to control heavy bleeding, reduce pain, regulate menstrual cycles, and help manage symptoms effectively.

Lifestyle Modifications

Healthy lifestyle habits, including maintaining a healthy weight and balanced diet, may support overall gynecological health.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

Depending on the patient’s condition, minimally invasive procedures may be considered to manage symptoms while preserving the uterus whenever possible.

Surgery may be considered when fibroids cause significant symptoms, continue to grow, affect fertility, or fail to respond to conservative treatment methods.

Severe or persistent heavy menstrual bleeding

Significant pelvic pain or pressure

Large fibroids causing pressure symptoms

Infertility associated with fibroids

Recurrent pregnancy complications

Rapidly growing fibroids requiring further evaluation

Laparoscopic Myomectomy

A minimally invasive procedure performed through small abdominal incisions to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus.

Hysteroscopic Fibroid Removal

Fibroids located inside the uterine cavity may be removed using a hysteroscope inserted through the cervix without external incisions.

Advanced Minimally Invasive Techniques

Modern gynecological surgery focuses on minimizing pain, reducing recovery time, limiting scarring, and helping patients return to daily activities sooner.

Hysterectomy

In selected cases where symptoms are severe and childbearing is complete, hysterectomy may be considered as a definitive treatment option.

At Dr. Dean Martin’s practice, we believe that not every fibroid requires surgery. Treatment decisions are based on individual symptoms, reproductive goals, and overall health. Conservative management and medical therapy are often considered before surgical intervention whenever appropriate.

Individualized treatment plans

Focus on symptom relief and quality of life

Fertility-preserving options when appropriate

Advanced minimally invasive surgical techniques

Comprehensive long-term monitoring and support

Most women with fibroids can successfully manage their symptoms and maintain an excellent quality of life. Early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and personalized treatment plans help achieve the best possible outcomes.

Doctor Note

At Dr. Dean Martin’s practice, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care for women with uterine fibroids. Our goal is to offer the most appropriate treatment options while prioritizing patient comfort, reproductive health, and long-term well-being.

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