Written by Dr Aisha Harris
There are 26 million women in the United States that have fibroids, with 70-80% of women developing fibroids before the age of 50. About 62% of women are not aware of the treatment options for fibroids.
Black women are two to three times more likely to have fibroids and by the age of 35, and 60% of Black women have fibroids. With Black women having fibroids at a younger age and often with more severe symptoms or complications, it is important to know the treatment options. There are many treatment options for fibroids, and hysterectomies are not the only option.
July is Fibroid Awareness Month, and here is more information about fibroids.
Fibroids are muscular tumors that grow in the uterus (womb) and are not cancer growths.
Fibroids can cause a variety of symptoms, but they can also cause no symptoms for some women. For those with symptoms, treatment can be ideal to help decrease or stop the symptoms. Historically, hysterectomies have been the main form of treatment offered to women, but there are a variety of treatment options that women can choose from.
Fibroids can cause increased pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, stomach discomfort, fertility problems, pregnancy problems, bladder issues and bowel issues. Every person is different, but sometimes these symptoms can be severe or intense enough to impact daily life and daily function.
Getting an evaluation and workup from a doctor is important to determine the cause of these symptoms and next steps.
Even though hysterectomies have come a long way over the years and are less invasive with less complex incisions than in decades ago, it is still the most invasive option for treating fibroids. More women with fibroids should be aware of the different options so they can pursue the best and most appropriate treatment option.
Some treatment options for fibroids include:
- Medications: There are medications that can help decrease the size of fibroids.
- Uterine artery embolization: A uterine artery embolization is a procedure via the large blood vessel that helps block the blood flow to fibroids and in turn decrease the size of the fibroids.
- Radiofrequency ablation: A radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive surgery (small incisions) that uses energy and heat to decrease the size of fibroids.
- MRI guided focused ultrasound surgery: A MRI guided focused ultrasound surgery is a non-invasive (no incisions) and uses ultrasound waves to destroy fibroids.
- Myomectomy: A surgery that removes only the fibroids and keeps the uterus present.
- Hysterectomy: A surgery that removes the uterus from the body.
There are many options for the treatment of fibroids. It is important to discuss options, including risks and benefits with your doctor. Fibroids are treatable and should be evaluated fully and appropriately to maximize the options and effectiveness of the desired treatment.
If you or someone you know has fibroids and have symptoms that are impacting your daily life, it is recommended that you contact your doctor for treatment, management and referral options. Many women do not know the spectrum of treatment they may be able to obtain. Learn more about your fibroids and what may be the best next steps for you.
Dr Aisha Harris, MD is a Flint native and board-certified family medicine doctor at Harris Family Health in Flint, Michigan. Harris Family Health is a membership-based clinic that provides personalized and full primary care to adults and children. Learn more about Harris Family Health by visiting www.harrisfamilyhealth.com.
Feel free to submit health questions to Dr Harris via theflintcouriernews@gmail.com.
