Uterine Fibroid Specialist in Wellesley, MA | Brigham Wellesley OB/GYN Associates
At Brigham Wellesley OB/GYN Associates, we understand that uterine fibroids can take a real toll on quality of life, from disruptive symptoms to the uncertainty of not knowing what’s causing them. Getting the right care starts with a provider who takes the time to understand your specific case.
There are many ways to treat uterine fibroids, but the right outcomes depend upon the skill of the physician and a treatment plan built around your individual needs. That’s why so many of the women throughout the greater Wellesley area trust us with their care.
To schedule your uterine fibroid examination with a board-certified specialist in Wellesley, call (781) 235-4000 or request an appointment online. Your path to finding relief from uterine fibroids starts here.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
A fibroid is a benign, noncancerous growth that develops within the muscular tissue of the uterus. While they aren’t cancerous, fibroids can still cause significant symptoms, including heavy menstrual bleeding, chronic pain, and more.
Fibroids are an extremely common female condition, affecting as many as 80% of all women by age 50, though many women never develop noticeable symptoms. For those who do, symptoms often emerge gradually as the fibroids grow larger over time. Left untreated, that growth and the symptoms that come with it tend to continue rather than resolve on their own.
What Causes Fibroids?
Unfortunately, there isn’t a single known cause of uterine fibroids. Medical professionals and researchers speculate that the development of uterine fibroids is related to hormonal imbalances and genetic predisposition, which means most women have little control over whether they develop this condition in the first place.
Who Is at Risk for Getting Fibroids?
Beyond hormone levels and family history, several other factors can influence your likelihood of developing fibroids:
- Age: Fibroids are most commonly diagnosed between age 30 and 40.
- Weight: Women who are obese face a higher risk of suffering from fibroids. The more weight a woman carries, the greater her risk.
- Ethnicity: African-American women are diagnosed with uterine fibroids at a higher rate than any other ethnic group.
- Diet: Research suggests that a diet high in red meat may increase fibroid risk, while diets rich in leafy greens and fruit may have a protective effect.
What Are the Symptoms of Fibroids?
Fibroid symptoms are often mistaken for typical period cramping, but they’re usually driven by the size or proportion of the fibroids themselves. As mentioned, fibroids typically cause excessive bleeding along with recurring pelvic pain. Other common symptoms include:
- Excessive Menstrual Bleeding: Most women with fibroids experience unusually heavy bleeding during their periods, which can sometimes lead to anemia.
- Pelvic Cramping & Pain: Fibroids can significantly increase the intensity of menstrual cramping.
- Pelvic Pressure: Ongoing pressure or pain in the pelvis, lower back, or sides is a common complaint among fibroid patients.
- Urinary Frequency: When fibroids press against the bladder, they can cause a noticeable increase in how often you need to urinate.
- Painful Intercourse: Fibroids can also cause pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
How Are Uterine Fibroids Treated?
Not every fibroid requires treatment, and that’s exactly why an individualized approach matters so much. Our physicians focus on identifying the right path forward for your specific situation, whether that means active monitoring, a non-surgical option, or a surgical procedure, rather than defaulting to the same treatment for every patient.
Because every woman’s experience with fibroids is different, from symptom severity to future fertility goals, choosing the right approach can make a meaningful difference in your outcome and recovery. Your provider will walk you through the options available and help you understand the tradeoffs of each before deciding on a plan together.
Why Do Patients Choose Brigham Wellesley OB/GYN Associates for Fibroid Treatment?
Fibroid treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all, and we don’t treat it that way. Our specialists take the time to understand your symptoms, your goals, and what matters most to you, whether that’s preserving fertility, avoiding surgery when possible, or finding fast relief from severe symptoms, before recommending a path forward.
That individualized approach is part of why so many women throughout the greater Wellesley area choose us for their fibroid care. You won’t be steered toward a procedure by default. You’ll be guided toward the option that best fits your case.
Schedule Your Uterine Fibroid Consultation Today
At Brigham Wellesley OB/GYN Associates, our specialists are proud to offer thoughtful, individualized care for women managing uterine fibroids. Each consultation is designed around your specific symptoms and goals, not a generic treatment path. Our carefully curated office is designed to welcome you into a safe space where your concerns are heard and taken seriously.
To schedule your uterine fibroid consultation in Wellesley, call our office at (781) 235-4000 or complete our online consultation form here. We work diligently to make women’s healthcare more accessible, compassionate, and understandable for all our patients in the Wellesley area.
Uterine Fibroid FAQs
Do all uterine fibroids need to be treated?
No. Many fibroids cause no symptoms at all and simply require monitoring. Treatment is typically recommended when fibroids start causing heavy bleeding, pain, or other symptoms that affect your quality of life.
Can fibroids affect fertility?
It really depends on the size and location of the fibroids, which may interfere with fertility or pregnancy. If you’re planning to conceive, your provider can discuss how your specific fibroids may factor into that plan.
Will I need surgery to treat my fibroids?
Not necessarily. Many fibroids can be managed with non-surgical options such as medication or minimally invasive procedures. Surgery is typically reserved for more severe cases or when other treatments haven’t provided relief.
Can fibroids come back after treatment?
New fibroids can develop over time, even after successful treatment of existing ones. Your provider can discuss what to expect long-term based on the treatment approach you both choose to treat your uterine fibroids.
How are uterine fibroids diagnosed?
Fibroids are most commonly diagnosed through a pelvic exam and confirmed with imaging, such as an ultrasound. Your provider may recommend additional testing depending on your symptoms.