Fibroids

Fibroids are the most common benign uterine tumor and may affect up to 70% of women. Fibroids may cause pelvic pain, heavy abnormal bleeding, and sometimes infertility. Fibroids that cause symptoms are usually treated. Incidental fibroids that do not cause abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain are usually just observed.

There is a very rare incidence of malignancy in masses that appear like fibroids on ultrasound. Highly vascular fibroids that grow rapidly may need to be removed regardless of symptoms. Removal of fibroids surgically involves either a hysterectomy to remove the whole uterus and prevent future fibroids, or it may include a myomectomy to remove just the fibroids and maintain the uterus. The myomectomy can be accomplished in a minimally invasive way either through the cervix or with laparoscopy.

Over the last 15 years Dr. Coussons has treated 100's of women with uterine fibroids. 99% of the time this is performed with outpatient surgery that is minimally invasive and with rapid recovery. There are now newer medical treatments that are also very effective at controlling heavy bleeding related to fibroids. These medical treatments make it possible to avoid surgery or possibly delay surgery in some patients. Dr. Coussons can order diagnostic tests which may include a pelvic ultrasound and/or an MRI, review records, and make treatment recommendations during an online or in-person consult.