Fibroids

A fibroid, also known as a uterine myoma, is a benign tumor that develops in the wall of the uterus. These tumors can be located either directly in the uterine wall or in the muscle tissue, with the term uterine myomatosus being used when the tumor grows in the muscle tissue.

At Women's Healthcare Center Amsterdam we specialize in women's care and can determine whether fibroids are the cause of your symptoms based on complaints and research.

Causes of Uterine Fibroids (Uterus Myomatosus)

The growth of fibroids is stimulated by the female hormone estrogen, especially during the reproductive period of women. Although fibroids are usually benign, there is a very small chance of developing a malignant tumor.

Fibroids are sometimes difficult to detect because they do not always cause symptoms or are palpable. Only when a fibroid is in an unfavorable location can pain occur. Menstruation can also become heavier due to the presence of fibroids.

The risk of fibroids is quite high in women, with dark-skinned women generally having a higher risk.

Different Types of Fibroids

Fibroids can occur in four different types, depending on their location in the uterus. Each type of fibroid can cause different symptoms:

• Intraligamentous fibroid: located on the suspensory ligament of the uterus.
• Subserosal fibroid: located on the outside of the uterus.
• Intramural fibroid: located in the wall of the uterus.
• Submucous fibroid: located under the uterine lining.

Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids (Uterus Myomatosus)

Many women have unnoticed fibroids and remain without complaints.

Women who do experience symptoms due to fibroids may suffer from:

• Pressing pain in the lower abdomen.
• Pressure on the bladder and increased urge to urinate.
• Back pain radiating to the lower back.
• Pain during intercourse.
• Severe menstrual pain.
• Irregular bleeding during menstruation.
• Vaginal discharge.
• Problems getting pregnant.

Treatment of fibroids

If you suspect you have fibroids or have symptoms that indicate fibroids, contact WHC Amsterdam for an accurate diagnosis. We use ultrasound to detect abnormalities around the uterus. If necessary, we perform a vaginal examination to check for irregularities.

Often, ultrasound or vaginal examination is sufficient to detect fibroids. If symptoms persist, further examination may be necessary.
Treatment options for fibroids include medications, keyhole surgery to remove the tumor, or embolization of the blood vessels to the tumor to kill the tissue.

Specialist in women's care

Would you like to make an appointment with one of our gynecology specialists? Contact us by phone or online, we are ready for you.