Uterine Fibroids Treatment Specialist in Chicago, IL

While there is no known cause of fibroids, there are several contributing factors that can increase the risk of developing them among those with uteruses. Studies have shown that the hormones estrogen and progesterone play a significant role in increasing the risk of developing fibroids if they become imbalanced. Having a family history where one or more close female relatives have developed fibroids has also been indicative of a higher risk for the development of fibroids. It is also more common for those who are assigned female at birth and are in their 30s or 40s to develop fibroids, as well as being obese or overweight. Research has also shown that some ethnic groups have an increased incidence of fibroids, and those who never give birth may also be at an increased risk. So, while there are no specific known causes for uterine fibroids, those who are at increased risk should be aware of the symptoms and will want to make sure that they are assessed by a qualified healthcare provider if symptoms should ever arise.

There are a few common symptoms of uterine fibroids, but these symptoms can vary a fair bit from person to person, with many patients never even experiencing symptoms that could indicate they have fibroids. Some common symptoms that are experienced by those with uterine fibroids include:

– Pain or pressure within the pelvic region
– Increased frequency urinating or feeling as though you are unable to empty the bladder
– Difficulty passing bowel movements
– Pain in the back or legs
– Prolonged or heavier than normal menstrual periods
– Bloating or enlarged abdomen
– Painful sexual intercourse
– Problems with fertility

As mentioned above, these symptoms can vary quite a bit from person to person, and it is also entirely possible to have fibroids without displaying any symptoms due to the size of the fibroids being so small.

Since it is not uncommon for fibroids to go undetected due to a lack of symptoms or them being so small that not even tests will show their presence, they can go untreated, which can sometimes lead to other health complications. The complications will vary depending on the size and location of the fibroids, with more common complications of having untreated fibroids including worsening symptoms, increased discomfort, anemia, prolonged menstrual bleeding, and pelvic pain. In more severe cases, untreated fibroids can cause problems with fertility or complications during pregnancy, such as preterm labor or miscarriages.

To ensure that fibroids do not remain untreated and that any discomfort or other unnecessary suffering is minimized as much as possible, physicians can screen patients for uterine fibroids through diagnostic imaging tests, including MRI scans or ultrasounds. If you are suffering from symptoms that are commonly associated with uterine fibroids or are at an increased risk of developing them and wish to be screened, you can schedule an appointment with a qualified healthcare provider to help guide you through the process as well as rule out any other health concerns that may be leading to symptoms.

There are several treatment options available for uterine fibroids, the best of which can only be determined based on the size and location of the fibroids, the symptoms that are being caused, as well as the future reproductive plans and personal preferences of the individual patient. The treatment option that will be best for one patient may not be the best treatment option for another. It will be up to the healthcare provider and the patient to determine which treatment for uterine fibroids will be most appropriate for their situation. Some common treatment options for fibroids include medications that can effectively manage symptoms (such as pain relief medication or medication that will reduce menstrual bleeding) or hormone therapy that works to shrink the fibroids. Some minimally invasive procedures can be considered to treat fibroids, including uterine artery embolization or focused ultrasound surgery. More invasive surgical options may also be considered, such as a hysterectomy or myomectomy.

We offer comprehensive treatment options for uterine fibroids, providing personalized care to address your specific needs. Our dedicated team is committed to helping you achieve optimal health and well-being throughout your treatment journey. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are located at 5449 N. Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640. We serve patients from Chicago IL, Evanston IL, Ravenswood IL, Uptown IL, Lake View IL, Lincoln Park IL, Buena Park IL, Bowmanville IL, Boystown IL, and Roscoe Village, IL.