Fibroids Specialist
Fort Lauderdale Women Care
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Fort Lauderdale Women Care
Gynecologists located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Uterine fibroids are not a one-size-fits-all problem: Fibroids differ significantly in size and in ways in which they may affect your health, if at all. Dr. Khadra M. Osman, gynecologist at Fort Lauderdale Women Care in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, have extensive experience treating uterine fibroids and work with you to diagnose and address the problem as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Fibroids Q & A
What are fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are growths found on the inside or outside of your uterine wall, or within the wall of your uterus. They are referred to as growths or lumps, since they’re not associated with cancer, and can typically range in size from tiny almost pea-sized lumps to large growths the size of a melon, that can stretch your uterus to the equivalent size of a 7-month pregnancy.
Fibroids appear in women during their childbearing years, from their 20s through their 40s. In many cases, small, single fibroids may exist, but go unnoticed, and they can also form in clusters or grow very large, making themselves apparent as they become invasive.
What causes fibroids?
It’s unclear why some women are more prone to fibroid development than others, but doctors believe that genetics play a vital role. Fibroids also respond to estrogen and progesterone levels, the hormones responsible for the development and shedding of your uterine lining each month, as your body prepares for pregnancy during your menstrual cycle.
What are the symptoms of fibroids?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, fibroids may be at the root of the problem:
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Excessive menstrual bleeding and cramping
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Pain during sex
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Low back pain
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Pressure in your abdomen
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Frequent urination
During your appointment, Dr. Osman or Dr. Sanches first perform a pelvic exam to measure the size of your uterus. Next, they follow up with an ultrasound, or a similar diagnostic method, to spot growths and gauge their size and impact.
What is the treatment for fibroids?
Once you’ve been diagnosed with fibroids, the next step is to decide on treatment. If the fibroids are symptomless, the gynecologist will recommend that you do nothing, and instead, monitor them for any changes. If, however, you’re experiencing symptoms that are hampering your daily activities, more proactive approaches may be suggested such as:
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Medications
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Birth control pills for hormone regulation
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Uterine fibroid embolization, which can shrink fibroids in women who are not planning on becoming pregnant
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A myomectomy to remove the fibroid(s)
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In extreme cases, you may opt for a hysterectomy, which removes your uterus
Dr. Osman or Dr. Sanches will sit down with you to discuss your case and your goals to determine the type of treatment that would be suitable for your situation. We are also involved in clinical research to treat fibroids.
