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Personalized Care for Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that grow in the uterus. These tumors are attached to the muscular walls of the uterus. In the U.S., about 30% of women between the ages of 25 and 44 experience uterine fibroids.

If you’re living with uterine fibroids, take the first step towards healing by contacting UPMC today.

Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

Symptoms of uterine fibroids may include:

  • An enlarged uterus and abdomen
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding and/or cycles that are longer than usual
  • Reproductive problems, like infertility
  • Painful periods
  • Vaginal bleeding between periods
  • Pain during sex
  • Pelvic or lower abdominal area pain
  • Frequent urination
  • Constipation
  • Lower back pain

Some women with uterine fibroids may not exhibit obvious symptoms.

Causes of Uterine Fibroids

No one knows exactly what causes uterine fibroids. Researchers believe genetics and changing hormone levels may play a role in the development of fibroids.

Treatment of Uterine Fibroids

Treatment options depend on the size, location and number of fibroids, the severity of your symptoms; your age and medical history and your reproductive goals.

Treatment options for uterine fibroids include:

  • Medications: If your symptoms are mild, your physician may recommend over-the-counter medication to relieve discomfort during your period. Medications called gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists can also be used to shrink uterine fibroids.

  • Surgery: A myomectomy surgery can help remove uterine fibroids. Surgeons take out the fibroids but leave the uterus intact. If a woman doesn’t wish to have any more children, a surgeon may suggest a hysterectomy, where the uterus is surgically removed.

  • Uterine artery embolization: Doctors can shrink uterine fibroids by cutting off their blood supply. During a uterine artery embolization, doctors instill tiny plastic or gel particles into the blood vessels leading to the fibroids.

  • Endometrial ablation: This procedure destroys the lining of the uterus in order to get rid of most fibroids.

  • Myolysis: This surgery uses electricity or extreme cold to destroy uterine fibroids.

Your healthcare provider will discuss your treatment options with you and help you select the most appropriate treatment option. For additional information, find a provider at UPMC.

UPMC offers exceptional care for uterine fibroids in Williamsport, Wellsboro, and surrounding areas of PA.