Learn the true answers to common myths about uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids are extremely common. In fact, up to 70% of women will have one or more uterine fibroids at some point during her lifetime. But despite their prevalence, many women have a lot of misconceptions about what they are and how they can be treated. Misinformation and misconceptions have led to many common myths about uterine fibroids.
If you think you have fibroids, it’s important to be able to wade through the misinformation and misconceptions surrounding fibroids so that you understand your options. Knowing what symptoms to look for and when to seek professional help is important and we want you to have all the correct facts. Below, you will find many of the common myths about uterine fibroids we hear from our patients.
Myth #1 – Fibroids are Cancerous
One of the first questions we hear when someone is diagnosed with uterine fibroids is, “Are they cancerous?” Because the word “tumor” is so often associated with cancer, the diagnosis that a tumor is growing inside your uterus can understandably set off alarm bells. Fortunately, uterine fibroids are benign growths and not linked to cancer.
Myth #2 – You Don’t Need to Worry About Fibroids
This is partially true, because in many cases the fibroids are small and located in non-sensitive areas. These fibroids are often symptom-less and require little worry or treatment. However, fibroids can be unpredictable when hormonal changes make them grow very large or very fast. Just watching them sometimes can lead to complications. If you notice more severe symptoms, such as increased pain and heavy bleeding, then it’s probably time to seek treatment. Heavy bleeding can have serious consequences, such as anemia which can be life-threatening.
Myth #3 – A Hysterectomy is the Only Treatment Option
In the not so recent past, the only option to medically treat bothersome uterine fibroids was to remove the entire uterus. Thankfully, due to medical advances, this is now just one of those myths about uterine fibroids. Today, we can offer fibroid sufferers many different minimally invasive alternatives to a hysterectomy so that you can keep your uterus and your fertility intact.
Myth #4 – If You Have Fibroids You Cannot Get Pregnant
This myth about uterine fibroids is partially true because there are strong links between fibroids and infertility and miscarriage. However, much of this is dependent on the fibroid’s size and/or location in the uterus. Large fibroids and fibroids that are imbedded in the inside wall of the uterus can interfere with the implantation of an embryo. Additionally, these types of fibroids can increase your risk of miscarriage. The bottom line is that not all fibroids will affect your fertility and it is still possible to get pregnant with fibroids. However, knowing where they are located and their size can help your care team guide you to a safe pregnancy.
Myth #5 – Surgery Gets Rid of Fibroids for Good
Unfortunately, even when fibroids are removed through surgical methods there is a high likelihood that they may redevelop after treatment. Routine exams and ultrasounds can help your doctor check for any new or recurring fibroids, so follow-up after treatment is necessary. If your fibroids do recur, your doctor may suggest a different method of shrinking or removing them.
Myth #6 – Fibroids Always Cause Heavy Bleeding and Pain
It is true that heavy bleeding during periods and pain are common symptoms of uterine fibroids. However, not all women experience these symptoms. Other symptoms you may experience are constipation, bladder dysfunction and lower back aches. The only way to know for sure if you have fibroids is by seeing a doctor to do a comprehensive exam.
It’s crucial to demystify these myths about uterine fibroids so that you can get the treatment you need, especially if you are considering pregnancy. If you think you may have fibroids, contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our fertility specialists.
