Fibroid tumors, also called uterine myomas, while most often non-cancerous, can produce a range of symptoms from little or no symptoms to severe discomfort, pelvic pressure, excessive bleeding, and bouts of anemia.
If you suspect you have fibroids or have recently been diagnosed, consider discussing the following questions with your physician to get a better understanding of your situation, expectations, and preventative measure to ensure a return to health.
1. How many fibroid(s) do I have and where are they located?
This question is important to help you determine the types of fibroids (subserosal-outer uterine wall, the submucosal-under lining of the uterine wall, or intramural-within the uterine wall) and how they will grow. Intramural tumors are the most common and grow and expand within the uterine wall creating an appearance of a "pouch" stomach.
2. What size is my fibroid(s) and how big is my uterus?
To maintain consistency in diagnosing fibroid size and uterine size, physicians compare an enlarged uterus to that of a pregnant uterus. If you have large fibroids (6cm or larger) or many fibroids your doctor may say you have a uterus the size of a 12-week pregnancy. You could expect more/larger fibroids to be greater than 12 weeks.
The largest reported fibroid was the size of a small grapefruit. Fibroids themselves are measured in cm and during a pelvic ultrasound size and location are noted so follow-up appointments can determine any changes.
3. What are my options for managing my fibroids?
If you are diagnosed with fibroids but have no physical symptoms, it is possible your doctor may recommend a wait-and-see or "watching" approach. Symptoms that drastically affect lifestyle, and emotional well-being or are detrimental to one's overall health (such as anemia) may require other approaches. For a list of other questions regarding procedures, your physician might recommend clicking here.
4. What is the most conservative approach to treating my fibroid(s)?
Rarely do fibroids present an immediate, life-threatening situation. Take the time to do research while enlisting the most conservative approach recommended by your physician. Don't be afraid to get a second or third opinion.
It is important that your reasons and methods of healing are in alignment with the physician treating you. Seek out natural solutions and solicit advice from those that have gone through a similar experience.