Time for Some Straight Talk about Fibroids

Have you ever noticed that when women start talking about problems with periods, the word “fibroids” often comes up? It’s usually spoken in hushed tones, such as the ones used to discuss cancer. The truth is that fibroids are a highly treatable condition. This common confusion is why we decided it was high time for some straight talk about fibroids.

Non-cancerous tumors in the uterus are known as uterine fibroids. They’re very common -- in fact, the Mayo Clinic reports that three out of four women probably experience fibroids in their lifetimes.

Most fibroids cause no symptoms at all. That’s why they often remain undetected. Only when they become large enough to press against other organs, cause excessive bleeding or get in the way of a woman becoming pregnant are they usually detected and treated.

In case you’re wondering what causes fibroids, they’re simply uterine wall cells that for various reasons continue multiplying to form a benign tumor. You may have an increased chance of developing fibroids if your mother had them, and certain hormones seem to increase fibroid growth.

But, again, they aren’t normally cancerous and there are plenty of treatment options.

When uterine fibroids become large enough to cause problems, you may experience a variety of symptoms:

· Excessive menstrual bleeding

· Prolonged pelvic pain

· Stress incontinence or trouble with bowel movements

· Spotting between periods

These are the warning signs that should have you talking to your doctor. This is the time to start asking questions about treatment.

If you’ve been diagnosed with fibroids, talk to your doctor about recommended treatment options. Depending on your age and whether or not you plan to have more children, there are several ways fibroid tumors can be removed.

Women who want to be able to have children may opt for a laparoscopic procedure that involves making several small incisions in the abdomen and performing the removal while observing the area on a camera screen. Known as a myomectomy, this is one of the best options for women who want to remain fertile.

One thing that should be said about fibroids is that they often return. For that reason, women who are finished having children may opt for hysterectomy. Either way, being able to sit down with your doctor and have all your questions answered will ensure choosing the best option for your life.

Having fibroids doesn’t have to be a life-altering event. If you suspect you might have them, or that’s been your recent diagnosis, taking the time for some straight talk about fibroids can make all the difference in treating your fibroids successfully.