Uterine Fibroids - When To Call a Doctor
Call to make an appointment if you have possible symptoms of a problem from a uterine fibroid, including:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding.
- Periods that have changed from relatively pain-free to painful over the past 3 to 6 months.
- Frequent painful urination, or an inability to control the flow of urine.
- A change in the length of your menstrual cycle over 3 to 6 menstrual cycles.
- New persistent pain or heaviness in the lower abdomen or pelvis.
Watchful Waiting
Unless you have bothersome or severe symptoms, you will probably only need to have a fibroid checked during your yearly gynecological exam.
Understanding Uterine Fibroids -- the Basics
The uterus is a muscular, hollow, pear-shaped organ in the pelvis. It is positioned behind the bladder and in front of the rectum. The lower portion narrows into the cervix, which opens to the vagina. Fibroids are benign (noncancerous) tumors, or growths of the muscle and connective tissue of the uterus. They usually grow slowly and may occur inside the uterine cavity, within the uterine wall, or on the outside surface of the uterus. They occur in 20% to 50% of women of reproductive age...
Read the Understanding Uterine Fibroids -- the Basics article > >
During a pregnancy, your health professional will check for changes in fibroid size and position.
Who To See
Uterine fibroids can be diagnosed and treated by any of the following health professionals:
You may need to see a gynecologist for further testing or treatment.
To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
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