What Are Calcified Fibroids?
A calcified fibroid is a fibroid that has undergone a process of calcification or hardening, where calcium deposits accumulate in the fibroid, causing it to solidify into a popcorn-like mass. This phenomenon occurs when the blood supply to the fibroid decreases, often due to natural tissue degeneration.
Calcified fibroids are more commonly found in postmenopausal women, as hormonal changes contribute to the gradual degeneration of fibroids. Though these hardened fibroids are generally stable, they may still lead to symptoms that require treatment.
Symptoms
While calcified fibroids are less likely to grow than non-calcified uterine fibroids, they can still cause discomfort and various symptoms. Common symptoms include the following:
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Lower back pain
- Abdominal discomfort
- Bloating or a feeling of fullness
- Pain during intercourse
- Frequent urination due to pressure on the bladder
How Fibroid Calcification Occurs
Calcification in fibroids generally occurs due to a decrease in blood flow, which leads to tissue hardening. Hormonal changes, especially as women approach menopause, often influence this process. Other factors, such as the size and location of the fibroid, may also affect its likelihood of calcifying over time.
Diagnosing Calcified Fibroids
Early diagnosis of calcified fibroids is essential for effectively managing symptoms and ruling out other potential conditions. Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests that allow specialists to visualize the fibroid's size, location, and degree of calcification.
The most common ways to diagnose calcified fibroids include employing the following imaging tests:
- Ultrasound: A common first step is ultrasound imaging, which helps determine the fibroid’s location and size.
- MRI Scans: An MRI scan can assess the calcification level and surrounding structures for a more detailed view.
- CT Scans: Sometimes used in complex cases, CT scans provide a comprehensive view of the calcified areas.
Identifying calcified fibroids early allows for tailored treatment plans to help manage pain, prevent complications, and preserve overall reproductive health.
Our team at Texas Endovascular emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and regular monitoring to ensure effective management of these non-cancerous growths.
Fibroid Calcification Treatment
Treating calcified fibroids depends on the severity of fibroid symptoms, the size of the fibroid, and your overall health goals. We offer minimally invasive options to address calcified fibroid symptoms effectively.
Non-Surgical Treatments
For those experiencing mild to moderate symptoms, non-surgical treatments may provide sufficient relief.
- Pain Management: Medications can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with calcified fibroids.
- Hormone Therapy: In some cases, hormone therapy may help to manage symptoms by regulating hormone levels.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Exercise, dietary adjustments, and stress reduction techniques can also benefit symptom management.
Surgical Treatments
When symptoms are severe or other treatments are ineffective, surgical options may be considered for calcified fibroid removal. These interventions include the following:
- Myomectomy: This procedure removes only the fibroid, preserving the uterus. It’s ideal for women who want to retain fertility.
- Hysterectomy: In cases where fibroids are causing severe symptoms and fertility is not a concern, a hysterectomy may be considered. This procedure removes the uterus and provides permanent relief from fibroid-related symptoms.
Calcified fibroid removal is typically recommended when the following occurs:
- Symptoms are significantly impacting daily life.
- Non-surgical treatments have not provided relief.
- The fibroid is large or causes pressure on other organs.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
Recovery from calcified fibroid removal depends on the surgical approach. Minimally invasive techniques typically offer faster recovery times and less post-operative pain.
Our team at Texas Endovascular provides comprehensive post-surgery care, including guidance on activity levels, pain management, and follow-up visits to ensure a smooth recovery process.
When to Treat Calcified Fibroids
At Texas Endovascular, we provide advanced and compassionate care for women with calcified fibroids.
Whether you require symptom management, uterine fibroid embolization for fibroid minimization, or fibroid removal, our team is here to support you with a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
To learn more about your options or to schedule a consultation, contact us today at one of our convenient locations and take the first step toward relief and improved well-being.
