Fibroids: What are they and how do I deal with them? By Dr. Matthew Siedhoff, MD MSCR

Uterine fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) tumors that grow in or around the wall of the uterus, also known as myomas or leiomyomas.  They are extremely common, affecting about three-quarters of women at some point in their life, and one of the most common reasons women undergo gynecologic surgery.  They don’t always cause symptoms, but women with fibroids may experience heavy, prolonged, irregular, or painful menstrual bleeding, urinary or bowel problems, pain during intercourse, or complications with pregnancy (infertility or miscarriage). ( READ MORE )

Thinking about gynecologic surgery? 4 things every patient should consider By Sawsan As-Sanie, MD, MPH and Courtney Lim, MD

Many women consider undergoing gynecologic surgery for a variety of conditions such as abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, ovarian cysts, fibroids or endometriosis.  Historically, these surgeries were often done through large abdominal incisions requiring long hospitalizations and recovery time, increased scar tissue and increased risks of bleeding and infection.

In contrast, many women now have the option of having these procedures performed with minimally invasive surgery (MIS) techniques.  MIS techniques are usually associated with less pain, quicker recovery, and lower risks of infection and bleeding.  These surgical methods include vaginal surgery, laparoscopy and hysteroscopy.

( READ MORE )