Calcified Fibroids Treatment
Calcified fibroids are a unique type of uterine fibroid that occurs when non-cancerous growths in or around the uterus undergo calcification, leading to a hardened state. While they generally don’t grow further, they may cause discomfort or other symptoms that impact quality of life.
At Houston Fibroids, we specialize in diagnosing and treating calcified fibroids, providing advanced, personalized care to ensure optimal health outcomes.
Contact us directly to learn more about calcified fibroids, including minimally invasive treatment options, or continue reading below.
What Is a Calcified Fibroid?
A calcified fibroid is a fibroid that has undergone a process of calcification or hardening, where calcium deposits accumulate in the fibroid, causing it to solidify. This occurs when the blood supply to the fibroid decreases, often due to natural tissue degeneration.
Calcified fibroids are more commonly found in postmenopausal women, as hormonal changes contribute to the gradual degeneration of fibroids. Though these hardened fibroids are generally stable, they may still lead to symptoms that require treatment.
Calcified Fibroid Symptoms
While calcified fibroids are typically stable and less likely to grow, they can still cause discomfort and various symptoms. Common symptoms include:
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Lower back pain
- Abdominal discomfort
- Bloating or a feeling of fullness
- Pain during intercourse
- Frequent urination due to pressure on the bladder
If you experience any of these calcified fibroid symptoms, consulting with a specialist at Houston Fibroids can help determine the best approach for relief and management.
Calcified Fibroid Causes
Calcification in fibroids generally occurs due to a decrease in blood flow, which leads to tissue hardening. Hormonal changes, especially as women approach menopause, often influence this process. Other factors, such as the size and location of the fibroid, may also affect its likelihood of calcifying over time.
Diagnosing Calcified Fibroids
Early diagnosis of calcified fibroids is essential for effectively managing symptoms and ruling out other potential conditions. Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests that allow specialists to visualize the fibroid's size, location, and degree of calcification.
Diagnostic Procedures
The most common ways to diagnose calcified fibroids include:
- Ultrasound: A common first step is ultrasound imaging, which helps determine the fibroid’s location and size.
- MRI Scans: An MRI scan can assess the calcification level and surrounding structures for a more detailed view.
- CT Scans: Sometimes used in complex cases, CT scans provide a comprehensive view of the calcified areas.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Identifying calcified fibroids early allows for tailored treatment plans to help manage pain, prevent complications, and preserve overall reproductive health.
Our team at Houston Fibroids emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and regular monitoring to ensure effective management of these non-cancerous growths.
Treatment Options for Calcified Fibroids
Treating calcified fibroids depends on the severity of symptoms, the size of the fibroid, and your overall health goals. At Houston Fibroids, we offer minimally invasive options to address calcified fibroid symptoms effectively.
Non-Surgical Treatments
For those experiencing mild to moderate symptoms, non-surgical treatments may provide sufficient relief:
- Pain Management: Medications can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with calcified fibroids.
- Hormone Therapy: In some cases, hormone therapy may help to manage symptoms by regulating hormone levels.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Exercise, dietary adjustments, and stress reduction techniques can also benefit symptom management.
Surgical Treatments
When symptoms are severe or other treatments are ineffective, surgical options may be considered for calcified fibroid removal.
Calcified Fibroid Removal
Removal may be the best course of action in cases where calcified fibroids cause persistent symptoms.
Indications for Removal
Calcified fibroid removal is typically recommended when:
- Symptoms are significantly impacting daily life.
- Non-surgical treatments have not provided relief.
- The fibroid is large or causing pressure on other organs.
Surgical Techniques Explained
- Myomectomy: This procedure removes only the fibroid, preserving the uterus. It’s ideal for women who want to retain fertility.
- Hysterectomy: In cases where fibroids are causing severe symptoms and fertility is not a concern, a hysterectomy may be considered. This procedure removes the uterus and provides permanent relief from fibroid-related symptoms.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
Recovery from calcified fibroid removal depends on the surgical approach. Minimally invasive techniques typically offer faster recovery times and less post-operative pain.
Our team at Houston Fibroids provides comprehensive post-surgery care, including guidance on activity levels, pain management, and follow-up visits to ensure a smooth recovery process.
Innovative Fibroid Treatment in Houston
At Houston Fibroids, we provide advanced and compassionate care for women with calcified fibroids.
Whether you require symptom management or fibroid removal, our team is here to support you with a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
To learn more about your options or to schedule a consultation, contact us today and take the first step toward relief and improved well-being.
