Uterine Fibroid Treatment Specialist

What are uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous tumors made of muscular or fibrous tissues that grow in or on your uterus. These growths may cause a range of symptoms, including pain and heavy periods.

Uterine fibroids vary in shape, size, and location. You can have a single fibroid or many, and they range in size from a tiny dot to a significant mass that can make you look like you're pregnant. Between 30-40% of women age 35 and older have fibroids on the larger side. 

These fibroids may appear in various locations. They may grow on the outer or inner surface of your uterus, within your uterine wall, or attach to your uterus with a stalk-like structure.

Uterine fibroids are most common when you’re in your 30s and 40s. African-American women are 3-5 times more likely to get uterine fibroids than white, Asian, or Hispanic women.

How do I know if I have uterine fibroids?

You won't necessarily develop symptoms with uterine fibroids, as many women don't. However, some common warning signs to look for may include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Bleeding in between periods
• Periods lasting longer than one week
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Frequent urination
• Constipation
• Lower back pain
• Painful sex

The only way to be sure you have uterine fibroids is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Al-Hakeem at Westover Hills Women’s Health. 

How are uterine fibroids treated?

Dr. Al-Hakeem performs minimally invasive treatments for fibroids, including gynecological robotic surgery, which removes the fibroids while preserving your uterus. He is also skilled at the Acessa procedure, FDA-cleared treatment to remove uterine fibroids. Acessa relies on a technology called radiofrequency ablation, which eliminates the fibroid with targeted heat. 

The procedure involves making two incisions in your abdomen that are only a quarter-inch in length. After Dr. Al-Hakeem inserts a needle through the opening and into the fibroid, he sends a current of radiofrequency energy into the fibroid. 

The heat destroys the fibroid without damaging your uterus. In time, your body reabsorbs the treated fibroid into your surrounding tissue.

You’ll be under general anesthesia during your treatment. You typically go home the same day, with little pain, and can resume your usual activities quickly. 

If you're among the 75% of women who develop uterine fibroids at some point in their reproductive years, perhaps it's time to learn more about minimally invasive treatment. Call Westover Hills Women’s Health today or book a consultation online.