Fibroids are often found by your gynecologist during a pelvic
examination. During this routine, physical exam, the size and
shape of your uterus can be determined and the presence of any
fibroids, which are benign growths on the uterine wall, may
be noticeable because they may cause the uterus to be larger
than expected or irregularly shaped.
The presence of symptoms that typically result from fibroids
can also be useful in determining their presence, and if you
experience any of the following, you should alert your doctor:
Menstrual bleeding that is heavier or more prolonged
than normal
Pain or pressure in the pelvic region
Pain during intercourse or along the backs of the legs
Bladder pressure that results in frequent urination or
incontinence
Bowel pressure that results in constipation or bloating
Anemia, which can cause excessive, unusual fatigue
An enlarged abdomen that can be mistaken for pregnancy or
weight gain
If fibroids are suspected, an ultrasound can be used to confirm
the diagnosis. This is a non invasive, simple and pain less
office procedure that evaluates the uterus and the location
of each fibroid. 3D and 4D ultrasonography is the latest in
improving the ultrasound images and allows better localization
of these benign tumors. An MRI is another imaging modality
commonly used in evaluating women with fibroids. It displays
the fibroids as darker as and more distinct than the surrounding
tissue because of the increased amount of collagen they contain.
A hysteroscopy, which is a small camera inserted through the
vagina into the uterine cavity allows us to visualize the
uterine cavity directly for a more accurate diagnosis of the
women with irregular bleeding. Samples can also be obtained
at the same time to identify any cancer, precancerous changes,
or suspicious lesions that may be present.
At FTG we have special expertise in using the most advanced
modalities in diagnosis of fibroid tumors. If you have previous
studies please bring them with you at the time of your consultation.
They are helpful in measuring the rate of growth and change
in the fibroids.
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