Fibroids
Also known as leiomyomas, myomas or fibroids, these tumors are by far the most common benign uterine tumor. They are usually diagnosed upon examination. They may be subserosal, intramucosal, or submucosal in location. They can occur as a single tumor but often are multiple; their consistency ranges from hard and stoney to soft and rubbery.
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What causes Fibroid Tumors?
The cause of fibroids is unknown. There is evidence of increased incidence within families. Hormonal influence is significant, particularly estrogen, which stimulates fibroid growth. Fibroids have the potential to enlarge during pregnancy, as well as to regress after menopause.
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How common are Fibroid Tumors?
Fibroids are the most common gynecological tumor in women. Clinical studies show that 20-25% of women of reproductive age have fibroids. Post-mortem studies show the incidence in all women is as high as 75%. Although these tumors are for the most part benign, there can be a malignancy rate of 0.1-0.2%. Studies show that these benign tumors (also known as fibroids, leiomyomas, fibromas or myomas) are 4-6 times more common in African American women that in Caucasian women, which suggests a possible genetic predisposition.
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What are the symptoms of Fibroid Tumors?
Symptoms vary greatly. Some women are fortunate enough to be completely asymptomatic, but their fibroids are usually insignificant in size. Most women experience at least one of the following complaints or side effects:
- Pelvic Pain
- Increased menstrual cramps
- Increased menstrual flow
- Clots
- Irregular or painful periods
- Increased urinary frequency
- Constipation
- Bloating
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How are Fibroid Tumors diagnosed?
Fibroids are frequently diagnosed when an enlarged, irregularly shaped uterus is identified during a pelvic exam. This is confirmed most commonly by ultrasound and less frequently by CT scan.
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Can Fibroid Tumors cause infertility?
3-12% of fibroids are attributed as the primary cause of infertility. Complications or loss of pregnancy can occur in women with fibroids, although most afflicted women have uncomplicated pregnancies and delivery. Fibroid tumors can block the fallopian tubes, which can lead to primary infertility. However, studies support the fact that if conception is successful, only 10-15% of women will have complications during pregnancy.
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Can Fibroid Tumors be treated without surgery?
There is no way to completely remove fibroids successfully without surgery. We know that menopause has an effect on fibroids by decreasing their size, but the fibroids never completely disappear.
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Can Fibroid Tumors reoccur?
As noted in multiple sections in this Website, recurrence rates in traditional myomectomy patients range from 12-64%. With FAS, we are reporting a 1-3% recurrence rate. Age plays an important role because the closer the patient is to menopause the lower her rate of recurrence. Reduced estrogen levels in post-menopausal women have a negative effect on future fibroid growth.
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How can Female Alternative Surgery help?
Traditional gynecological treatment follows two courses. The first, for small or asymptomatic tumors, is a "wait and see" approach including annual ultrasounds to watch for any changes. The second traditional avenue, usually for larger and more symptomatic disease, is a myomectomy for the superficial tumors and a hysterectomy for the more invasive fibroids. Depending on the philosophy of your gynecologist, the ovaries may or may not be removed
At the Institute for Female Alternative Medicine our approach is much more patient-friendly. Female Alternative Surgery removes fibroid tumors safely and effectively using a multi-laser technique, generally eliminating the need for blood transfusions. Additionally, the endometrial cavity is examined for any and all potential tumors or polyps, something that is not addressed in a traditional myomectomy procedures.
Remember: Every form of treatment should be tried before a hysterectomy is ever considered.
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