Could Uterine Fibroids Be the Cause of Your Period Pain?

September is Sexual Health Awareness Month, which makes it the perfect time to discuss uterine fibroids in women. While uterine fibroids can affect women of all race and ages, women are more likely to develop fibroids during child bearing years, and black women are diagnosed roughly three times as frequently as white women. Though we don't know for sure why that is, researchers have their own theories. 

Uterine fibroids often go undetected because they can present as severe menstruation symptoms, or with no symptoms at all.

Some symptoms include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Menstrual periods lasting more than a week
• Pelvic pressure or pain
• Frequent urination
• Difficulty emptying bladder
• Constipation
• Backache or leg pains

If you experience these symptoms with each menstrual cycle, it's advised that you see a doctor. Our doctors and nurse practitioners here at LaSante Health Center are skilled in women's health and gynecology. Dr. Christina Pardo and NP Isabel Dobbs value the extra care that goes into women's health and are experienced in diagnosing and treating a variety of conditions in women of all races and ethnicities.

Researchers have a variety of theories as for why unterine fibroids are more commen in black women. Some data suggests that low Vitamin D levels attribute to the development of fibroids. Black people generally have lower Vitamin D levels. It is also believed that stress and obesity contribute to the development of fibroids, two factors that can affect black women.

Oftentimes, uterine fibroids are caught during a routine pelvic exam. While not life-threatening, treatment could still be necessary depending on how severe the fibroids are. If you experience mild pain from uterine fibroids, your doctor may recommend waiting and watching to see if your symptoms worse. There are various medications you can take to regulate your menstrual cycle and shrink the fibroids; your doctor can go over these medications to you. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you may want to talk to your doctor about minimally invasive procedures or more major procedurs like a hysterectomy. 

If you're concerned that you may have uterine fibroids, visit our website or call (718) 246 - 5700 to make an appointment. Our doctors are happy to talk to you about your concerns.