My daughter has had over 6 iron transfusions in 2 years because of a fibroid. Why doesn’t her doctor just remove it?
I can’t answer to the management of that doctor, but I think it is important for you and your daughter to get another opinion. Management is based on your daughter’s particular situation.
What if your fibroids are between 8 to 10 cm which is like the size of a baseball? Do you still have an option to get them removed or are they too big ? I asked that question because my doctor informed me that my fibroids are too big that’s why I have to have a hysterectomy.
If your desire is to retain your uterus, then I would suggest you get a second opinion. The decision for the type of management from the doctor side is comfort level for that particular procedure. If that is not what you want, then find someone who can better assist you. And don’t be afraid to speak up and ask questions.
I bleed during ovulation every month. Me and my husband I trying to make have a baby but the bleeding is preventing that I have no pain, just the ovulation bleeding. Could this be fibroids?
It is important to have an evaluation from your doctor. It is difficult to determine what it could be without knowing your complete history.
So, at what point should a woman have a hysterectomy? What if fibroids are inside and outside the uterus? How invasive is fibroid removal surgery?
Having a hysterectomy is truly a personal decision. You should have a detailed discussion about all the options that are available. If you feel you have exhausted ALL of your options and there are no other options and your quality of life is extremely compromised, then make the decision with which you are most comfortable.
I heard that the chemicals that are found in hair relaxers lead to fibroids. Is this true?
That statement was mentioned during the segment. Last year, TJMS had on another physician that discussed that topic specifically. There is information that chemicals, including those in hair care products, can cause negative effects of various kinds to people that use them. It is my recommendation to avoid all (whenever possible) harsh chemicals, preservatives and additives in products we use and foods we eat.
I’m almost 44. I have had 6 children, 2 are twins (I’ve been pregnant 6 times with 1 abortion). My OB/GYN of 19 years hasn’t suggested anything but birth control or wait until menopause for my fibroids. I tried the patch and they caused me severe depression. My fibroids cause me heavy menses & fatigue, and I’m on iron pills. I’m interested in myomectomy. Should I suggest it to my doctor and ask her to refer me to a specialist if she can’t do it? What other options would you suggest?
It is important to discuss your concerns with your doctor. You need to ask about your options for management. If he/she does not respond, then seek out another physician for another opinion.
I have fibroids and was told by my doctor that they are deep in my tissue and he didn’t want to touch them. l have had polyps removed but how dangerous is it to keep those in there? I now have pain in my left pelvic area.
If your symptoms have changed and/or worsened, it is time to ask about different management options. If your doctor does not discuss other options and you are uncomfortable or unsatisfied with the response, then seek out another physician for another opinion.
Dr. Dunham, I live in Huntsville. Are you accepting new patients?
Yes. But we are making some changes in the office. We will be accepting new patients after July 1. You can reach out to us at that time.
I am 57 and getting my third fibroid removal next week. I have been told that dairy, which I love, is the cause of so many fibroids. Also, does having fibroids cause weight gain? Thank you!
Fibroids do not necessarily cause weight gain, it is possibly a combination of a several things that could include metabolic changes that come with menopause, dietary habits, and minimal activity. There are nutritionists who believe that dairy does contribute to fibroid development. But the questions at hand are why are you having another fibroid removal at 57? Are they still growing? Have you been evaluated for more serious issues?
Is there a direct affect of having a hysterectomy and experiencing problems losing weight?
Not necessarily. Without having all of your information, it is difficult to answer. But if you are menopausal or have gone through surgical menopause (because of the removal of ovaries at the time of the hysterectomy), then your metabolism and hormonal situation has changed, which can affect your ability to lose weight.
I’m 50 years old with 600 g fibroid and a few smaller ones. I have no menopause symptoms but I have heavy bleeding.
It is extremely important to have open dialogue with your doctor regarding your situation. Your continued bleeding at 50 could be due to the fibroids.
I had my tubes tied almost 13 years ago and I’m looking to get them reversed but I just recently found out I have cysts on my ovaries. I’m wondering will it still be possible for me to do the reversal and have another baby or will the cysts cause me to have to have a hysterectomy? I’m 35 years old.
Benign cysts on ovaries is not cause for hysterectomy, per se. You and your GYN should discuss the tubal reversal. They may suggest lab work to determine your hormonal situation and may suggest a referral to infertility specialist. The recommendations have changed regarding management of tubal reversal.
