Are fibroids causing my heavy periods?

Many women suffer from heavy periods, which can be caused by a range of hormonal or structural conditions. Uterine fibroids are also commonly determined to be the cause. As part of Fibroid Awareness Month, we’re taking a deeper look at this condition that affects millions of women.

What are fibroids?
Fibroids are noncancerous tumors that grow in the uterus. While some fibroids cause no trouble, others can lead to heavy periods, cramps, pelvic pain, or other conditions. The good news is you can find effective treatments for addressing fibroid complications at Stony Brook Medicine.

What are the symptoms of fibroids?
Fibroids may cause no symptoms at all. But for many women, they can bring on a range of uncomfortable or distressing symptoms. The most common signs are heavy or long periods, or a dull ache or pressure in your lower abdomen. You may also experience frequent urination and/or difficulty emptying your bladder. In some cases, sex can be painful or you may have difficulty getting pregnant.

Am I at risk for fibroids?
It’s estimated that fibroids affect over 50 percent of women, so it is very likely that you may develop fibroids at some point in your life. Fibroids are most common between the ages of 30 and 50. Other factors that play a role in developing fibroids include obesity, family history, and hormonal factors, such as early menstruation and not having children. In addition, Black women are more likely to develop fibroids.

How do I know if I have fibroids? 
If you’re experiencing heavy bleeding, or any of the symptoms mentioned above, speak with your gynecologist as soon as possible. Letting us know about your symptoms right away, instead of waiting until your annual exam, can make it easier to treat fibroids. At your appointment, we’ll schedule an ultrasound to determine if you have fibroids and to plan next steps.

What happens if I have fibroids?
Depending on the size and number of fibroids, as well as other factors, we’ll recommend one of three approaches to treat your growths. To control bleeding symptoms, we may recommend a medical management solution, such as birth control pills or an intrauterine device. In many cases your condition can be resolved with a minimally invasive procedure, which can be done in an outpatient setting or with a short hospital stay. The final and most traditional approach to remove fibroids is definitive surgery, such as a myomectomy or a hysterectomy.

Are there any other treatments?
Yes! Stony Brook Medicine is the only facility in Suffolk County offering the newest treatment for uterine fibroids: Sonata. This solution uses a technology called radiofrequency ablation to shrink fibroids. After the Sonata treatment, many women return to normal activities the next day. There are no incisions made on your body, and your uterus is preserved. We’ve seen exceptional results for over 90 percent of our patients who have undergone the Sonata procedure. At your initial appointment, we’ll let you know if Sonata can be effective for you.

Why Choose Stony Brook Medicine? 
At Stony Brook Medicine, our care goes beyond cutting-edge fibroid treatments. Our entire staff of board-certified gynecologists not only has extensive experience in treating fibroids, but we also understand the effect fibroids can have on your life. When you see us, you’ll receive compassionate support throughout the treatment process. Our team is dedicated to providing you with personalized care that gets you back to feeling your best as quickly as possible.