What causes Fibroids?
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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In this video, Dr. del Junco Jr. shares his thoughts on UAE (Uterine Artery Embolization)
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.
What are the symptoms of Fibroids?
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
How are Fibroids 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.
Can Fibroids 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. Fibroids 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.
Can Fibroids 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.
Can Fibroid 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.
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 fibrois 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 fibroids 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.
Contact Us
For over a decade the Institute and Dr. del Junco Jr. have advocated treating “fibroid tumors” without hysterectomy. At no cost to you, we have a Surgical RN on staff available to answer any questions you might have pertaining to your diagnosis and our Female Alternative Surgery procedure. Please contact Patricia Marshall BSN RN CNOR directly by E-Mail or at: 1-800-505-4326.