Fibroids Specialist

Serrano OBGyn

OBGYN & Weight Loss located in San Antonio, TX

According to researchers, more than 70% of American women will develop uterine fibroids at one point in their lives. In some cases, fibroids lead to disruptive symptoms that require medical attention, like the care of Christopher Serrano, MD, of Serrano OBGyn in San Antonio, Texas. If you experience pelvic pain or abnormal bleeding, schedule a diagnostic exam to find answers. Booking a visit is as simple as a phone call or a visit to the online scheduling page.

210-761-5308

Fibroids Q & A

What are uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are growths that develop in the wall of your uterus. They’re benign, which means they are not cancerous. Fibroids are also called leiomyomas or myomas.

Fibroids are quite common, and most women will develop at least one during their lifetime. You can have one fibroid or many, and they can range in size from so tiny you can’t even detect them with the human eye to so large they extend your abdomen.

Not all fibroids cause symptoms, so many women will not know fibroids are present. When they do cause symptoms, those issues can disrupt your normal daily routines.

How do I know if I have uterine fibroids?

Knowing what to look for can make it easier for you to decide when to schedule a visit with Dr. Serrano. It’s important to listen to the messages your body sends, and make your health a priority even as you lead your busy life.

Some symptoms of uterine fibroids include:

Heavy bleeding or prolonged periods
Pelvic pain or pressure
Frequent need to urinate
Trouble fully emptying your bladder
Constipation
Leg or back pain

If you notice these changes, come in for a diagnostic exam.

How are uterine fibroids treated?

Dr. Serrano creates a personalized treatment plan based on your needs and goals. In some cases, the best course of action is a period of watchful waiting to see if fibroids will shrink on their own. This is especially true for women nearing menopause, as declining hormone levels will shrink fibroids.

There are also medications that can help. Some work to regulate your menstrual cycle and address heavy bleeding. There are drugs that alter your hormonal balance, and others that can relieve pain.

Another approach involves injecting a substance directly into the arteries that feed a fibroid to block blood supply and shrink the growth. A treatment called endometrial ablation removes a portion of your uterine lining, but should only be considered by women who do not plan on future pregnancy.

Surgery offers another treatment path. Some minimally invasive procedures remove targeted fibroids laparoscopically. In rare cases, a hysterectomy is the only way to fully eliminate uterine fibroid symptoms.

If you’re concerned about pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, or other symptoms of uterine fibroids, schedule an appointment with Dr. Serrano online or over the phone to begin moving toward answers.

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