Fibroids
At Fertility Specialists of Houston we believe it is essential for our patients to understand what is happening to them every step of the way. We want you to maintain a feeling of control about the process. After your initial consultation our physician will be able to determine a preliminary diagnosis and make testing recommendations.
Once the initial work-up is complete and test results are reviewed, a diagnosis can be pinpointed and a treatment plan begun. We will educate you thoroughly about your particular diagnosis, but we have provided an overview below. Please contact us if you have any questions about this information or your own specific situation.
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop from smooth muscle tissue and occur in nearly 30% of women. Fibroids grow in multiple numbers inside the uterine cavity, inside the muscle of the uterus or on the outer surface of the uterus and can range from very small to nearly 10 centimeters. Depending on the location and/or size, fibroids can interfere with pregnancy by causing changes in the lining of the uterus that make it difficult for an embryo to implant, or they can compress or block the fallopian tubes and prevent the sperm from reaching the egg.
The most common diagnosis of fibroids is menorrhagia which is a significant increase in the endometrial surface area through the presence of multiple of large fibroids. Symptoms may include heavy menstrual bleeding and pressure on the bladder.
Depending on their location and size, fibroids can be surgically removed through a myomectomy. This procedure is routinely performed using a hysteroscope, or by making a surgical incision in the abdomen and removing the fibroid. Fibroids that don't impact fertility are generally left in place.
* The site is not a replacement for professional medical opinion, examination, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your medical doctor or other qualified health professional before starting any new treatment or making any changes to existing treatment. Do not delay seeking or disregard medical advice based on information written on this site. No health information on this website should be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease without the supervision of a medical doctor.
