Uterine Fibroids - Exams and Tests
Your doctor may suspect that you have a uterine fibroid problem based on:
- The results of a pelvic exam.
- The history of your symptoms and your menstrual periods.
You will probably also have a pelvic ultrasound or hysterosonogram to confirm that you have one or more uterine fibroids. A hysterosonogram is done by filling the uterus with sterile saline during a transvaginal pelvic ultrasound.
Uterine fibroids (leiomyomata) are non-cancerous growths that develop in or just outside a woman’s uterus (womb). Uterine fibroids develop from normal uterus muscle cells that start growing abnormally. As the cells grow, they form a benign tumor.
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If you have had heavy menstrual bleeding, you may have a complete blood count (CBC) to check for anemia.
Laparoscopy may be used to look for and locate fibroids on the outer surface of the uterus before removal (myomectomy).
Additional testing
If you have severe pain, bleeding, or pelvic pressure or have had repeat miscarriages or trouble becoming pregnant, you will probably have other tests to look for other possible causes of your symptoms.
And tests for specific symptoms, such as urinary or bowel problems, may be needed to diagnose the problem or to help build a treatment plan.
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