What Are Fibroids?
Though it may seem odd, you’d be surprised to hear that there may be a connection between the lower back pain you’ve been experiencing and your prolonged period. The common connection between these two symptoms may be fibroids. Fibroids are tumors made of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue. While the word “tumor” may cause a lot of alarm, these specific tumors are quite common in women and are rarely cancerous. In fact, due to the rarity of malignant fibroids, it is better for most women to opt for observation and mild treatment rather than a myomectomy surgical procedure. Loraine Diego, MD is a gynecologist with extensive experience in the treatment of fibroids. If you’re struggling with persistent pain or heavy periods due to these tumors, she will happily lend her professional services to you and help you get back to feeling like yourself again.
What Causes Fibroids?
The exact cause of fibroids is currently unknown. However, scientists and doctors believe that fibroid development is due to genetic and hormonal factors. Estrogen and progesterone are the hormones produced by the ovaries and cause the uterine lining to regenerate during periods. When delivered in excess, such as during pregnancy, these hormones may cause the growth of fibroid tumors. Additionally, it appears that women over the age of 30 and those with high body weight are at greater risk of developing fibroids too. If you’re experiencing symptoms in the form of pelvic pain, increased urination, abnormal periods, and heavily bleeding, we encourage you to visit our Echo Park center for testing and treatment. If fibroids are the source of your concerns, we can happily provide you with effective hormone therapy to help restore your well-being.
What Treatments Are Available?
In addition to hormone therapy, Dr. Diego can also provide you with natural supplements and can recommend lifestyle changes to help you better manage your symptoms. When you come in for your consultation with Dr. Diego, she will begin by asking you a series of questions about your symptoms and medical history. Afterward, she will perform a routine pelvic exam and possibly an ultrasound if one is necessary. If these tests reveal fibroids, she will recommend treatments in relation to your age, fibroid size, and overall health. Certain home remedies like yoga and massage have been shown to have a positive effect on fibroids. Additionally, Dr. Diego may recommend certain dietary changes like avoiding high-calorie foods and provide you with supplements to better regulate your diet and your health.
What Should I Expect When Treating Fibroids?
The duration of your fibroid treatment is highly dependent on their size and your level of discomfort. Throughout your treatment, Dr. Diego may advise supplements and other recommendations to better manage your condition. In some cases, fibroids may not need treatment if they’re small or don’t produce symptoms. If you’re pregnant or become pregnant while having fibroids, Dr. Diego can provide you with support while carefully monitoring your condition. Thankfully, in most cases, fibroids don’t cause problems during pregnancy.
Treatment Results
Treatment success and future outcome of addressing fibroids is highly dependent on their size and severity. Without proper measures, these tumors may affect fertility. Women over the age of 35 may have an especially difficult time getting pregnant due to this condition. Thankfully, these tumors rarely turn cancerous, but if tests show that the tumors are rapidly growing, surgery to remove them may be required.
Fibroids Treatment in Los Angeles, California
Though rarely dangerous, fibroids can be uncomfortable and difficult to deal with without treatment. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms associated with this condition, Dr. Diego can provide you with the proper testing and support you need. To set up an appointment at our Los Angeles center, please call (213) 388-2229 or fill out the form below. We also offer telemedicine services via Zoom!
