OBGYN & Wellness Concierge located in San Diego, CA
It’s estimated that as many as 80% of women develop a fibroid at some point during their childbearing years. Sometimes fibroids cause symptoms, which can disrupt everyday life. Board-certified OB/GYN Kelly O. Elmore, MD, at Viva Life Health Hub, with an office in San Diego, offers consultations on fibroids and can provide recommendations for treatment.
Fibroids Q & A
What are fibroids?
Fibroids are benign (noncancerous) tumors that develop in the uterus. They’re very common, affecting a large majority of women at some point during their life.
While any woman can develop a fibroid, they’re more common in African-American women. You may also be at an increased risk of developing fibroids if they run in your family. A diet high in red meat may add to your risk.
Fibroids can vary in both size and number. Your fibroid can be as small as an apple seed or as large as a cantaloupe, and you can have more than one.
What are fibroid symptoms?
Fibroids don’t always cause symptoms. In fact, you can have a fibroid and not even be aware of it. However, women who do experience symptoms from their fibroid may find that they affect their quality of life. Common fibroid symptoms include:
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- Increase in abdominal girth
- Heavy menstrual flow
Depending on size and location, your fibroid may also affect fertility.
How are fibroids diagnosed?
Dr. Elmore provides virtual appointments for fibroid consultations. During your consultation, the team reviews your medical and menstrual history, and takes a look at the radiology report from your primary care physician.
Treatment for your fibroid may depend on the location, size, and your symptoms. If your fibroid is small and isn’t causing symptoms, the team at Viva Life Health Hub may recommend just monitoring its progress.
However, if your fibroid is causing symptoms, the team may suggest natural or pharmaceutical medications to ease your symptoms or shrink the fibroid. Dr. Elmore may also suggest surgery to remove the fibroid. She and the team review all of your options with you and work with you to develop the most effective treatment plan.
For a fibroid consultation with an experienced OB/GYN and surgeon.
