Discussing uterine fibroids with OBGYN Krystel Babaran
Uterine fibroids are almost always benign, or noncancerous, growths located inside the uterus, the uterine wall or on the outer uterine surface. OBGYN Krystel Babaran wants women to learn about the symptoms and treatments of this common condition. Women of reproductive age are most at risk for fibroids. Patients with a family history of the condition and African American women also have an increased risk of developing the growths.
Understanding the signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids
Some women have fibroids but don’t experience problems. However, others experience issues such as those listed here.
- Menstrual changes, including pain, irregular bleeding or heavy periods that last longer.
- Abdominal pain or cramping.
- Lower back pain.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Difficulty with urination or bowel movements.
- Enlarged abdomen or uterus.
- Issues with miscarriages and infertility.
Our Austin OBGYN urges women not to ignore symptoms that lead to heavy bleeding, pelvic pain and pressure, and fertility issues. Additionally, women with large fibroids in the uterus or cervix may have trouble having a vaginal birth and require a C-section.
Treatment options range from conservative management to surgery
According to Dr. Babaran, “Treatment usually starts with conservative management. If the patient doesn’t have symptoms, we use expectant management, watching for problems and fibroid growth. If the patient has symptoms, such as heavy bleeding, there are hormonal treatments that regulate their periods or stop them entirely.” There are also medications that shrink uterine fibroids and decrease periods.
Surgical procedures can be effective when conservative treatment is not.
- Uterine artery embolization blocks the blood supply to the uterus and shrinks fibroids.
- Acessa is a minimally invasive procedure that employs radiofrequency ablation to destroy the growths.
- Myomectomy is a surgery to remove fibroids for those who wish to preserve their fertility.
- Hysterectomy offers a definitive solution for patients who are finished having children.
OBGYN Krystel Babaran urges women to have annual exams and seek care when needed
Most fibroids are benign, but our Austin OBGYN says, “It is important to be aware of the symptoms so that they can come back for an appointment if it starts to bother them. It’s also important to come for an annual well woman exam because during the pelvic exam we are able to feel the uterus to see if it is getting bigger or if fibroids are increasing over time.”
Patients who are concerned about uterine fibroids or who are looking for a caring and skilled physician should contact us to make an appointment with Krystel T. Babaran MD.