Uterine Fibroids

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Uterine Polyps and Fibroids the Same Thing?

No, uterine polyps and fibroids are not the same things. They are both uterine growths but are made up of different types of tissue. Fibroids are made of dense, connective fibrous tissue, whereas polyps are made of endometrial tissue. They may cause similar symptoms, but the main difference between the two is that fibroids are not cancerous and do not cause cancer. Polyps do have the potential to become cancerous.

What are Fibroids?

Fibroids are growths in the uterus that appear in women of childbearing age. They range in size and can be singular or there can be multiple fibroids. Fibroids often do not cause any harm, but large fibroids may distort or enlarge the uterus, which can cause fertility issues or pregnancy complications.

What are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids and fibroids are the same things. Fibroids are growths that form in or on a woman’s uterus.

What Causes Uterine Fibroids?

The causes of uterine fibroids are largely unknown. Some potential factors include genetic changes, hormone production, and heredity.

How Do You Know If You Have Fibroids?

You may not know you have fibroids. Fibroids can be detected during a routine pelvic exam or may require further testing to be accurately diagnosed. Not everyone who has fibroids experience symptoms but some common ones are heavy menstrual bleeding, abnormally long periods, pelvic pain, frequent urination, troubles emptying the bladder, and constipation.

Are Fibroids Genetic?

You are at an increased risk of developing fibroids if your mother and/or sister had fibroids. Additionally, black women are at a higher risk of developing fibroids and are more likely to develop them at a younger age and experience larger fibroids with more severe symptoms.

Are Fibroids Cancerous?

Fibroids are not cancerous and very rarely develop into cancer.

Can Uterine Fibroids Cause Depression?

The presence of fibroids may cause feelings of anxiety or depression in some individuals. Additionally, knowing you have fibroids while trying to get pregnant can also be a source of stress. Acupuncture can help reduce stress levels and also help with anxiety and depression.

Can Fibroids Cause Infertility?

Fibroids do not usually interfere with pregnancy. However, depending on the number, placement, and size, fibroids could increase the risk of certain pregnancy complications. There are several types of fibroids and the presence of fibroids in the uterine cavity (submucosal fibroids) increases the risk of infertility and loss of pregnancy.

Can I Get Pregnant with Uterine Fibroids?

Yes, you can still get pregnant with uterine fibroids. It is entirely possible that the presence of fibroids will have no impact on fertility or the health of a pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you know you have fibroids so they can take that into account during treatment.

Can Fibroids Cause Miscarriage?

The placement and size of some fibroids can increase the risk of miscarriage. Submucosal fibroids can grow into the uterine cavity, increasing the risk of pregnancy loss.

How to Deal with Fibroids During Pregnancy

Many pregnant women with fibroids will have a perfectly healthy pregnancy. However, the location, number, and size of fibroids may contribute to pregnancy complications. Fibroids may cause placental attachment abnormalities, restrict the growth of the baby, increase the risk of preterm delivery, and breech presentation.

Can Fibroids Cause Bleeding After Menopause?

Heavy bleeding and spotting are two symptoms of fibroids in both premenopausal and postmenopausal women. Estrogen and progesterone are lower during menopause, which usually shrinks fibroids, but this is not always the case.

What Causes Uterine Fibroids to Grow After Menopause?

Uterine fibroids often develop and grow in size because of estrogen and progesterone levels. Levels of those hormones decrease during menopause and may prevent growth or shrink the size of present fibroids. However, there are other risk factors including race, family history, stress, weight, and Vitamin D intake that can affect uterine fibroid growth.

Can Uterine Fibroids Be Cured Naturally?

Uterine fibroids may shrink in size on their own. Estrogen and progesterone hormone levels are common reasons for fibroids to change in size. When hormone levels are high, such as during pregnancy, a fibroid can increase in size. When levels drop, fibroids may decrease in size. Menopause, when hormone levels naturally drop, is also a time when fibroids are likely to shrink.

Can Acupuncture Help with Fibroids?

Yes, acupuncture treatments are an effective way to treat fibroids and the negative symptoms associated with fibroids. This natural remedy to fibroids balances the yin and yang energies of the body. The effects of acupuncture treatments help reduce fibroids, harmonize hormones that may cause fibroids to form, and stabilize the menstrual cycle to improve fertility outcomes.

Can Acupuncture Alone Reduce Uterine Fibroids?

Acupuncture can be an effective way to help reduce fibroids and treat fibroid symptoms for many individuals. Others, with a more severe condition, may require surgery or other additional support. If you have fibroids or have reason to believe fibroids are causing negative symptoms, talk with your doctor to discuss possible treatments. Make sure you are clear about your desire to have children when consulting with your doctor as this will be a factor when recommending treatments.

Is There an Herbal Treatment for Uterine Fibroids?

Herbal medicine can have wonderful healing and restorative powers that can help with many conditions, including fibroids. After consultation, we will recommend an herbal treatment plan that takes into account your health, goals, and medical history.