Have you or someone you know been diagnosed with uterine fibroids? Maybe you are concerned with the symptoms of fibroid cysts. Uterine fibroids are are more common than you might think. In fact, uterine fibroids occur in up to 50% of all women and are one leading cause of hysterectomy in the United States. Treatment of uterine fibroids varies depending on variables like symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, age, the patient’s desire to have children, and the patient’s current health. Here are a few things to know about uterine fibroids:

1. Uterine Fibroids Explained – Uterine fibroids are a type of muscular tumor that grow in the wall of the uterus. They are usually diagnosed by pelvic exam and ultrasound. Uterine fibroids located just under the outer layer of the uterus are known as subserosal fibroids whereas intramural fibroids are found within the uterine wall. Intermural fibroids can actually distort the outer shape of the uterus.

2. Causes of Uterine Fibroids – The short answer here is that no one knows what causes uterine fibroids, but some researchers believe that two key factors could play a role: hormones and genetics. They know that hormones play a part because studies have proven that uterine fibroids stop growing or in some cases even shrink once a woman goes through menopause. Research shows that obesity, nulliparity, onset of menstruation before the age 10, and African American heritage are all factors that increase a woman’s risk of having uterine fibroids. Ask your doctor if you think that you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of fibroids.

3. Treatment of Uterine Fibroids – There are several options when it comes to removal of uterine fibroids. The most common treatment of uterine fibroids is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus which is called a hysterectomy. The good news is that there is also a relatively new uterine fibroids surgery called Radiofrequency ablation (Acessa™) which is an outpatient surgery that does not require a hysterectomy and allows the patient to go home several hours after their surgery. In most cases women who have this procedure are able to return to their normal activities in 5 to 9 days.

If you are looking for more information on the treatment of uterine fibroids or are concerned that you may need uterine fibroid removal you should consult your doctor immediately. They will be able to walk you through your options with you so that you can choose the right treatment for your lifestyle.