Fibroids
Fibroids are muscular tumors that grow in the uterus. Though the word “tumor” is often associated with cancer, fibroids are almost always non-cancerous. Many women with fibroids will never notice them, but certain symptoms may indicate that fibroids are causing discomfort in the pelvic area.
Because we believe women in the Princeton, WV area deserve the most updated care available, at Summit Women’s Health, we use the Acessa® Procedure to remove fibroids. This is a new, minimally-invasive procedure that can shrink or eliminate fibroids.
How common are fibroids?
It’s estimated that somewhere between 20-80% of women will develop fibroids before the age of 50. The reason that estimate range is so big is that fibroids often grow without causing any symptoms or health problems at all. So it’s likely that very many women are living with fibroids without knowing about it.
Most women who develop fibroids will develop them in their 40s and early 50s. After menopause, fibroids usually shrink.
Fibroids are also more common in those with a family history of developing them, those who are overweight or obese, and those who eat a lot of red meat and ham. African American women are also more likely to develop fibroids than white women.
What are the symptoms of having fibroids?
As with other conditions in the uterine area, the symptoms of fibroids can be very similar to other problems (like endometriosis or PCOS). However, some combination of the following symptoms may indicate that the uterus is irritated by fibroids:
Heavy bleeding
Painful periods
Pain during sex
Lower back pain
Enlargement of the lower stomach area
Complications during pregnancy or labor (women with fibroids have a six times greater chance of needing a cesarean section)
Infertility, though this symptom is rare
What is the Acessa Procedure?
The Acessa® Procedure is a quick, same-day surgery that can be performed outpatient (meaning you will not have to stay overnight in a hospital). It generally leads to rapid symptom relief and a fast recovery.
Your doctor at Summit Women’s Health will make two tiny incisions in the abdomen and insert a small camera, guided by an ultrasound. Then, the Acessa® Procedure works by applying radiofrequency energy to each fibroid with a small array needle. This destroys the fibroid, but leaves the tissue around it unharmed.
Does the Acessa Procedure take long?
The Acessa® Procedure is an outpatient surgery, so you can go home the same day. The length of the surgery depends on the number and size of fibroids to be treated. Some procedures may last for several hours.
Is the Acessa Procedure safe?
Yes, Acessa has been clinically proven to be a safe and effective treatment for fibroids with very low complication rates. It has a 97% success rate and relieves most symptoms within a few weeks after the procedure. You and your doctor can always discuss the risks of the procedure and other available treatments.
If you are suffering from heavy or long periods, abdominal pain, frequent urination, and/or symptoms of anemia, fibroid treatment may be right for you. To test for fibroids at Summit Women’s Health in Princeton, West Virginia with Brandon M. Lingenfelter, DO, PhD; Megan Lingenfelter, PA; Sam Snyder, DO; or Valeah Bradshaw, NP, call us at (681) 282 5591 or book an appointment online.