Uterine fibroids are benign uterine growths that can interfere with fertility
Many women of reproductive age have uterine fibroids. Thankfully, these uterine growths, also known as leiomyomas, are not cancerous. However, they can still cause problems that range from heavy menstrual bleeding to infertility. At Nashville Fertility Center, our Tennessee fertility specialists can diagnose and treat these growths to help women find relief and become mothers.
These benign uterine growths can vary in size, shape and type
When it comes to uterine fibroids, there is a great deal of variety. The uterus can have just a single fibroid that is very tiny, or it can contain multiple fibroids that can enlarge the uterus as much as a pregnancy does.
There are also different types of fibroids. Our Tennessee fertility specialists find that these benign uterine growths come in three primary forms.
- Subserosal fibroids grow in the outer uterine wall. These can also be pedunculated, meaning they are attached to a stalk-like growth that extends from the outside of the uterus.
- Intramural fibroids appear in the muscle of the uterine wall.
- Submucosal fibroids push into the uterine cavity, also known as the endometrium.
These growths can cause many symptoms or no issues at all
The size, number and location of fibroids will determine whether they cause problems. Fibroids affecting the uterine lining are the most likely to cause symptoms. However, even fibroids within the wall or on the outside of the uterus can be problematic, depending on their size.
Here are some of the symptoms that women can experience due to uterine fibroids.
- Heavy menstrual bleeding or periods lasting longer than a week
- Pressure or pain in the pelvic area
- Frequent urination or trouble emptying the bladder
- Constipation or bowel pain
- Pain in the back or legs
These benign uterine growths can also contribute to infertility and miscarriage. However, our Tennessee fertility specialists can help.
Our team will start by ordering diagnostic testing like a transvaginal ultrasound, hysterosalpingogram (HSG) or MRI. Your doctor will determine which imaging modality is most appropriate in your case.
If testing reveals that a woman has fibroids, our team will develop a customized treatment plan based on her needs. At Nashville Fertility Center, our team offers treatments that preserve the uterus and fertility. These treatments include management using medications, minimally invasive myomectomy (removing fibroids while leaving the uterus in place) using hysteroscopy or laparoscopy, or open myomectomy (using a larger incision on the abdomen to access and remove the fibroids).
If you would like to learn more about uterine fibroids or start receiving treatment at our clinic, please contact us. We look forward to helping you find relief from fibroids.
Understanding Fibroid Typeswith Dr. Kristin Van Heertum |
Learn About Fibroid Treatment Optionswith Dr. Kristin Van Heertum |
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