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Fibroids

Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist located in Burlington, MA

Fibroids services offered in Burlington, MA

Pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, and problems getting pregnant may be signs of uterine fibroids. At Burlington OBGYN Associates Inc. in Burlington, Massachusetts, the board-certified obstetrics and gynecology specialists diagnose and offer treatments for fibroids to reduce your risk of complications. Schedule an evaluation at Burlington OBGYN Associates Inc. by phone or request one online today.

Fibroids Q & A

What are fibroids?

Fibroids are tumors consisting of fibrous connective tissue and smooth muscle cells. About 70-80% of women develop them at some point in their lifetime, but not everyone needs treatment or experiences symptoms. Cancerous fibroids are rare. Fibroids can grow and become very large when left untreated.

If you suspect you have fibroids or have risk factors, see the Burlington OBGYN Associates Inc. specialists for an evaluation. 

What are the symptoms of uterine fibroids?

The signs and symptoms associated with uterine fibroids include:

  • Prolonged periods
  • Heavy periods
  • Pelvic pain or pressure
  • Bleeding between periods
  • Low back pain
  • Frequent urination
  • Pain with sex
  • Infertility 

You may not notice any symptoms with uterine fibroids, but your provider can still detect them during a routine pelvic exam. 

What are the risk factors for fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are the most common tumors in the reproductive tract of women. Risk factors include:

  • Nearing menopause
  • Family history of fibroids
  • Being in your 30s or 40s 
  • Carrying excess body weight
  • African-American heritage

Adopting healthy habits to maintain an ideal body weight may reduce your chance of fibroids, but the exact cause isn’t entirely clear.

How does my specialist diagnose fibroids?

To determine if you have fibroids and if you need treatment, your Burlington OBGYN Associates Inc. provider asks about your lifestyle, symptoms, medications, and medical history. 

They complete a physical exam, including a pelvic exam and possibly a Pap test. During the pelvic exam, your specialist feels for firm, often painless lumps. 

They may order an ultrasound, MRI, hysteroscopy, or other diagnostic procedures.

How are fibroids treated?

Your treatment plan for fibroids depends on your symptoms. Your specialist may recommend one or more of the following:

  • Watchful waiting
  • Medications
  • MRI-guided focused ultrasound 
  • Minimally invasive surgery

Minimally invasive surgery can remove fibroids that cause pain or other bothersome symptoms. Your Burlington OBGYN Associates Inc. provider tailors each treatment to your needs. They follow up with you routinely to ensure symptom relief and minimal risk of complications. 

Schedule an evaluation at Burlington OBGYN Associates Inc. by phone or request one online today to determine if you have fibroids and need treatment.