Fibroids are smooth, non-cancerous muscle growths that attach to the uterus. As any OBGYN will tell you, most American women will develop them at some point in their lives. One study found that 70% of Caucasian and 80% of African American women have fibroids by age 50. While not cancerous, they still may have implications for your reproductive care and are worth discussing with your doctor.

5 Essential OBGYN Facts About Fibroids

1. The Cause of Fibroids Isn’t Clear

Scientists still aren’t sure what causes fibroids, though they suspect that hormones such as estrogen and progesterone could be to blame. Environmental factors, stress, and diet may also play a role. Since no clear cause has been pinpointed, there are also no definitive preventative measures that are recommended.

2. Symptoms Aren’t Always Present

Although they are very common, fibroids usually don’t incite any symptoms. The most common one is a very heavy menstrual flow. Most women don’t notice a thing, however—meaning they also don’t require treatment.

3. Fibroids Can Impact Fertility & Pregnancy

In most cases, women with fibroids have no issues with pregnancy. Only in rare instances do they impede fertility. A more common issue arises when it comes to giving birth, as they are linked to a higher risk of requiring a cesarean section delivery.

4. Fibroids Are a Leading Reason for Hysterectomies

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure in which a woman’s uterus is removed. Fibroids are the number one cause of hysterectomies in the United States. Unfortunately, this option does make a woman infertile; keep in mind, however, that most women don’t get them until they are in their 40s and 50s.

5. Other Treatment Options Are Available

A hysterectomy isn’t the only option for treating fibroids today. Non-invasive medical therapies, including ultrasound therapy and hormone treatments, can be used to shrink or slow their growth. A myomectomy is also a choice; it removes fibroids while leaving the uterus intact.

If you need an OBGYN in the Anchorage area, Alaska Women’s Health PC is known for its trustworthy and compassionate services. They have been serving the community for more than 30 years, and their practice areas include everything from infertility treatments to prenatal care. You can find out more about the various ways they can help on their website. For an appointment, call the women’s health clinic directly at (907) 563-7228.