Fibroids: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment Options in Lagos
Uterine fibroids are common growths that develop in or around the uterus. Some women have fibroids without experiencing any symptoms, while others may experience heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure or difficulties related to fertility.
If you have been diagnosed with fibroids or are experiencing symptoms that concern you, understanding the condition and available treatment options can help you have a more informed discussion with your doctor.
If you are looking for fibroid treatment in Lagos, the appropriate treatment will depend on factors such as the size and location of the fibroids, your symptoms, age, reproductive plans and overall health.
What Are Fibroids?
Fibroids, also called uterine leiomyomas or myomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop from the muscle tissue of the uterus.
They can vary considerably in size and number. Some women may have a single fibroid, while others may have several.
Fibroids can develop in different parts of the uterus, and their location can influence the symptoms they cause.
Some women may have fibroids without knowing they are present, while others may experience symptoms that require medical evaluation.
Arctic Gynae Centre provides Gynaecology services that include the assessment and management of conditions such as uterine fibroids.
What Are the Symptoms of Fibroids?
Fibroid symptoms can vary from one person to another.
Common symptoms may include:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Painful periods
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- A feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen
- Frequent urination
- Constipation or pressure on the bowel
- Lower back pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Difficulty becoming pregnant in some cases
Having one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have fibroids.
Other gynaecological conditions can cause similar symptoms, which is why proper medical assessment is important.
Can Fibroids Affect Fertility?
Fibroids do not affect fertility in every woman.
However, depending on their size and location, some fibroids may be associated with difficulties conceiving or pregnancy-related concerns.
If you have fibroids and are trying to become pregnant, your doctor may assess the number, size and location of the fibroids and consider other factors that may affect fertility.
If you are also experiencing difficulty conceiving, you can learn more about fertility assessment and treatment at Arctic Gynae Centre.
What Causes Fibroids?
The exact reason why some women develop fibroids is not completely understood.
Hormonal and genetic factors appear to play a role, and fibroids are influenced by reproductive hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone.
Having a family history of fibroids may also be associated with an increased likelihood of developing them.
Your doctor can discuss your individual risk factors and medical history with you.
How Are Fibroids Diagnosed?
If your doctor suspects that you may have fibroids, they may begin by discussing your symptoms and medical history.
A physical examination may also be performed where appropriate.
Imaging can then be used to provide more information about the uterus and any fibroids that may be present.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound is commonly used to examine the uterus and can help identify fibroids, their location and other features.
Arctic Gynae Centre provides Radiology and ultrasound services that can support the investigation of gynaecological conditions.
Other investigations
Depending on your symptoms and clinical circumstances, your doctor may recommend additional imaging or investigations.
The appropriate tests depend on the individual patient.
Do All Fibroids Need Treatment?
No.
Some fibroids do not cause symptoms and may not require immediate treatment.
If your fibroids are not causing significant problems, your healthcare provider may recommend monitoring them and reviewing your symptoms over time.
Treatment becomes more relevant when fibroids cause significant symptoms, affect quality of life or are associated with other reproductive health concerns.
Your doctor will consider your individual circumstances before recommending a treatment plan.
Fibroid Treatment Options
There is no single treatment that is appropriate for every woman with fibroids.
Treatment options may include monitoring, medication or surgical treatment depending on your symptoms and circumstances.
1. Monitoring
If fibroids are small or not causing significant symptoms, your doctor may recommend monitoring them.
This can involve follow-up appointments and investigations when clinically appropriate.
2. Medication
Certain medications may help manage symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding or pain.
Medication may help control symptoms but does not necessarily remove the fibroids themselves.
Your doctor can discuss which medications, if any, may be appropriate for you.
3. Surgical Treatment
In some cases, surgery may be recommended to remove fibroids or address symptoms that have not been adequately managed with other approaches.
One surgical option is myomectomy, a procedure in which fibroids are removed while preserving the uterus.
The suitability of surgery depends on factors such as the number, size and location of fibroids, your symptoms and your reproductive plans.
Arctic Gynae Centre provides Reproductive Health Surgery as part of its specialist women’s healthcare services.
What Is a Myomectomy?
A myomectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove uterine fibroids.
Unlike a hysterectomy, which involves removing the uterus, a myomectomy aims to remove the fibroids while retaining the uterus.
The type of myomectomy that may be appropriate depends on the characteristics of the fibroids.
Your doctor will discuss the available options and explain the potential benefits and risks before recommending surgery.
What Is Minimally Invasive Fibroid Surgery?
Some gynaecological procedures can be performed using minimally invasive surgical techniques.
Depending on the location and characteristics of the fibroids and the specific procedure required, minimally invasive approaches may be considered.
Arctic Gynae Centre provides Minimal Access Surgery as part of its range of reproductive health services.
Whether minimally invasive surgery is suitable depends on an individual clinical assessment.
Can Fibroids Come Back After Treatment?
Fibroids that have been removed may not necessarily return, but new fibroids can develop.
The likelihood of recurrence can depend on several factors.
This is one reason why follow-up care and continued communication with your healthcare provider can be important after treatment.
When Should You See a Gynaecologist About Fibroids?
You should consider speaking with a gynaecologist if you experience:
- Very heavy menstrual bleeding
- Persistent pelvic pain
- Severe menstrual pain
- A feeling of pressure in your abdomen
- Frequent urination without another obvious explanation
- Difficulty becoming pregnant
- Symptoms that interfere with your daily activities
You should also seek medical advice if you have already been diagnosed with fibroids and your symptoms have changed.
A healthcare professional can determine whether further investigation or treatment is appropriate.
How to Choose Fibroid Treatment in Lagos
If you are searching for fibroid treatment in Lagos, it is important to look beyond the treatment itself and consider the overall quality of care available.
Proper diagnosis
Before treatment, your doctor should establish the size, number and location of the fibroids and understand your symptoms.
Experienced medical care
Choose a healthcare provider with appropriate experience in managing gynaecological conditions and fibroids.
Access to diagnostic services
Imaging such as ultrasound can be an important part of investigating fibroids.
Different treatment options
Depending on your circumstances, treatment may range from monitoring and medication to surgical intervention.
Consideration of fertility plans
If you would like to have children in the future, discuss your reproductive plans with your doctor before deciding on treatment.
Fibroid Treatment and Gynaecological Care in Lagos
Arctic Gynae Centre provides comprehensive Gynaecology services for women experiencing a range of reproductive health conditions, including uterine fibroids.
Where further investigation is required, Radiology services provide diagnostic imaging support.
For patients who require surgical management, Arctic also provides Reproductive Health Surgery and Minimal Access Surgery, depending on the clinical circumstances.
If you have symptoms of fibroids or have already been diagnosed with fibroids, the first step is to speak with a qualified healthcare professional about your individual situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fibroids
Are fibroids cancerous?
Most uterine fibroids are benign, meaning they are not cancerous. However, any unusual symptoms or changes should be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional.
Can fibroids cause infertility?
Fibroids do not cause infertility in every woman. Their effect on fertility can depend on factors such as their size and location and other individual reproductive factors.
Do all fibroids need surgery?
No. Some fibroids may not require treatment, while others can be managed with medication or monitoring. Surgery may be considered when symptoms or other factors make it appropriate.
Can fibroids be treated without surgery?
Depending on the symptoms and individual circumstances, non-surgical approaches such as monitoring or medication may be considered.
Can I get pregnant after fibroid treatment?
Some women become pregnant after fibroid treatment, but individual outcomes vary. If fertility is important to you, discuss your reproductive plans with your gynaecologist before choosing a treatment option.
Where can I get fibroid treatment in Lagos?
Arctic Gynae Centre provides gynaecological assessment and treatment for fibroids in Lagos. You can book a consultation to discuss your symptoms and treatment options with the medical team.
Book a Fibroid Consultation in Lagos
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be associated with fibroids or have already received a diagnosis, getting a proper medical assessment is an important first step.
Arctic Gynae Centre provides gynaecological assessment, diagnostic support and appropriate treatment options for women in Lagos.
You can book a consultation with Arctic Gynae Centre to discuss your symptoms and receive advice based on your individual circumstances.
Arctic Gynae Centre
R5, Atlantic Vista Estate, Olokonla, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lagos
Phone: +234 913 215 9156
Email: info@arcticobgyn.com
