Fibroids

If you suffer from long periods, heavy periods, or pelvic pain, fibroids might be the cause of these bothersome symptoms. At Maximos OB/GYN in League City, Texas, board-certified physician Bassem Maximos, MD, MPH, FACOG, and his exceptional staff diagnose and treat fibroids to reduce symptoms and your risk of medical complications. Call the office to learn more or use the online booking feature today.

What are fibroids?

Fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop within your uterus and often appear during the childbearing years. While they rarely develop into cancer, fibroids can cause worrisome or debilitating symptoms when left untreated. At the first sign of new or unusual symptoms, see Dr. Maximos for an evaluation. 

What are the symptoms of uterine fibroids?

The hallmark symptoms of uterine fibroids include:

• Periods lasting longer than a one week
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Frequent urination
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Problems emptying your bladder 
• Backaches
• Leg pain
• Constipation 

Your symptoms might be mild or severe, and you may not have any symptoms at all. When left untreated, uterine fibroids can sometimes cause anemia and fatigue due to heavy blood loss during menstruation. 

What increases your risk of uterine fibroids?

The common risk factors for developing fibroids include:

• Family history of fibroids
• Hormone changes
• Being African American
• Obesity
• Vitamin D deficiency 
• Starting your period at an early age
• Diets low in vegetables and fruits
• Diets low in dairy foods
• Diets high in red meats
• Drinking alcohol

Ways to reduce the risk of developing uterine fibroids include maintaining an ideal body weight, eating nutritious foods, getting regular exercise, and limiting or avoiding alcohol. 

How does my specialist diagnose fibroids?

Dr. Maximos can diagnose fibroids after discussing your medical history and symptoms, completing a routine pelvic exam, and using ultrasound or MRI technology to create detailed pictures of the inside of your uterus. 

He also offers hysteroscopy using a lighted telescope and may suggest you complete blood tests to screen for anemia, thyroid disorders, and other troublesome medical problems. 

How are uterine fibroids treated?

Maximos OB/GYN offers highly effective treatments for fibroids, including:

• Watchful waiting
• Healthy lifestyle changes
• Medications 
• MRI-guided focused ultrasound surgery
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Endometrial ablation
• Minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic surgeries 

Minimally invasive surgery allows Dr. Maximos to remove troublesome fibroids without harsh procedures or extensive downtime. 

He may recommend more than one fibroid treatment to ensure exceptional results, and he tailors each plan based on the severity of your condition, lifestyle, and treatment preferences. 

To find out if you have uterine fibroids and get treated for your condition, schedule an appointment at Maximos OB/GYN by phone or online today.