Ask Sofia: What are fibroids?
Affecting nearly one-quarter of women at some point, fibroids are benign growths on the uterus that often appear during or after childbearing years. They can be as small as a pea and as large as a melon. Fortunately, fibroids are not linked to an increased cancer risk and they rarely develop into cancer.
The symptoms of fibroids are heavy periods, painful sex, a persistent urge to urinate, pelvic pain and cramps, constipation and backaches, among others. Treatment, then, can include medications and hormone therapy, ultrasound therapy, fibroid removal that leaves the uterus in place or hysterectomy, embolization as well as IUDs to relieve heavy bleeding – and some fibroids shrink on their own after pregnancy as the uterus returns to its normal size.
“If you have persistent pelvic pain, uncomfortably heavy periods, painful intercourse or difficulty with urination, please give us a call so that we can take a closer look and chart a course to help you feel better,” said Dr. Jewelia Wagner. “We are always here to answer your questions, whether they are about fibroids, pregnancy, periods or any other health issues.”
