Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomata, are benign growths in the uterus. Fibroids are one of the most common causes of chronic abnormal uterine bleeding.

The fibroids will shrink once they no longer have any blood supply. The tissue of the fibroid softens and it is slowly reabsorbed by the body. Rarely, some tissue can be passed through the cervix and vagina. Back to top

Since opening the Institute eight years ago, we have never had a patient return for reccuring fibroids. Our recurrence rates are approximately 1-3% with FAS as compared to 12% to 64% with traditional myomectomy. Because of the surgical technique and laser use the smaller tumors are also removed, unlike a traditional myomectomy. The tumors also do not tend to produce future problems or symptoms necessitating a hysterectomy. We have yet to see a women we were unable to help with FAS.

Also here is the USA 20/20 documentary involving fibroid specialist Dr Stanley West, from the ManhattanFibroid Associates discussing the often inappropriate use of Hysterectomy(womb removal) for fibroids & other conditions CLICK HERE to view the 20/20 VIDEO Fibroid Network News: Dr Sandra Richards Fibroid Interview with Bridgette York Saturday 5th May 2007 9 Dr Sandra Richards Phd Interviews Bridgette York about Fibroids on Colourful Radio, which is available online.

Yes. This procedure will treat all your fibroids regardless of their number, size or location. Back to top

Of course there are other options. In my experience, most women who are told they require a hysterectomy for fibroids would actually benefit from medical therapy or a safer and less invasive surgical option that preserves their uterus.

Fibroids, benign tumors of the uterus, may be small or large, symptomatic or asymptomatic. If they are not causing you problems, monitoring them carefully should be enough. If the fibroids are large or are causing bleeding or pain, same-day surgery with D&C or endometrial ablation may offer relief of symptoms. Sometimes fibroids can be removed with a hysteroscopic or laparoscopic procedure. In other cases, a vaginal or abdominal hysterectomy is necessary.

Up to 40% of women past the age of 40 have fibroids and about 75% of women will never be aware of their existence unless they cause a problem.

In some cases, fibroids can return, even after a myomectomy. It is important that you have annual examinations with your physician (or sooner, if symptoms return). Bleeding can again cause anemia and should not go unchecked. Your physician may be recommending a hysterectomy due to your history, the size, location, and/or your specific anatomy, etc. S/he may feel this is the best recommendation for your situation.

There are benign breast tumors called fibroadenomas (some women call the "fibroids"), which are part of the fibrocystic tendencies. Uterine fibroids are not related to this condition, to my knowledge.

While there is much we don't know what causes fibroids exactly, we believe that there is probably has something to do with genetic or cell mutation. Under some complex factors, (environmental, hormonal, and/or aging) that prompt certain individual cells start to grow the wrong way. There are strong evidences showing that female hormones (estrogen and progesterone) are necessary for the fibroid to grow.

Since a large majority of patients with fibroids are completely asymptomatic, most fibroids are never diagnosed. Fibroids are usually detected during a routine gynecologic exam when the patient's gynecologist feels an enlarged or lobulated uterus. The diagnosis is usually confirmed using ultrasound or less commonly MRI. In general, MRI is better than ultrasound in determining the exact size, number and location of the fibroids (see samples in web site).

Talk with your doctor about the best way to treat your fibroids. She or he will consider a number of things before helping you choose a treatment. Some of these things include: If you have fibroids, but do not have any symptoms, you may not need any treatment. But your doctor will check during your regular exams to see if they have grown. Medications If you have fibroids and have mild symptoms, your doctor might only suggest pain medication.

Uterine fibroids are growth that develop from the cells that make up the muscle of the uterus. Thay are also called leiomyomas or myomas. Uterine fibroids are common, benign growths that occur quite often in women. About one in every four or five women has them. Fibroids are most common in women aged 30 - 40, but can occur at any age. Many women who have fibroids are not aware of them because the growth can remain small and not cause a problem.