Fibroids Specialist

What are fibroids?

Fibroids are noncancerous growths that can develop in your uterine wall or inside and outside your uterine cavity. Uterine fibroids are most common between the ages of 30 and 40, but you may have these growths at any age.

Fibroids vary in number and in size. You may have one or several. Some are too small to detect during a pelvic exam. Large fibroids can distend your uterus. 

Uterine fibroids grow at different rates. Some may remain small, while others may develop rapidly. These growths may produce no symptoms at all or a host of uncomfortable, even painful symptoms.

What are the symptoms of fibroids?

Fibroids produce a variety of side effects. You may experience:

• Heavy periods
• Pelvic pain
• Bleeding between periods
• Abnormally long menstrual periods
• Cramps
• Feelings of pelvic pressure
• Fatigue (from anemia)
• Constipation
• Difficulty urinating
• Painful sex

Fibroids also may lead to a miscarriage or even infertility, although this is uncommon.

How are fibroids diagnosed?

Dr. Harrison can detect large fibroids during a pelvic exam. In other cases, she may recommend one of the following diagnostic procedures to gather more information about the fibroid or fibroids:

Ultrasonography

Ultrasonography sends painless sound waves into your uterus and pelvic organs. The waves create a picture that reveals the presence of fibroids.

Hysteroscopy

Dr. Harrison uses a thin viewing device called a hysteroscope to see the inside of your uterus. The device goes through your vagina and cervix.

Hysterosalpingography

Hysterosalpingography is a special X-ray. Dr. Harrison uses it to check for abnormalities in the size and shape of your uterus and Fallopian tubes. 

Sonohysterography

This test uses a special fluid that's inserted into your uterus. The fluid provides a clear picture of your uterine lining on an ultrasound. 

Dr. Harrison also may recommend laparoscopy, a minimally invasive outpatient procedure. During laparoscopy, she inserts a narrow camera-equipped device, a laparoscope, through a tiny incision near your navel. 

The laparoscope allows Dr. Harrison to see the inside of your abdomen and detect fibroids on the outside of your uterus. 

Once Dr. Harrison identifies the uterine fibroids, she recommends a treatment plan. She may suggest watchful waiting, where she keeps an eye on the fibroid, or a procedure to remove the fibroid or fibroids.

If you're experiencing pelvic pain or abnormal menstrual bleeding, call or schedule a consultation online to find out whether you have fibroids.