1. Know the Symptoms of Fibroids
Fibroids are abnormal growths in the uterine wall. Some women don't experience any negative symptoms associated with fibroids, especially if the fibroids are small. However, most women with fibroids do experience various symptoms. Some of the fibroid symptoms include pressure or a feeling of fullness in the pelvic region, painful menstrual periods, heavy or long periods of menstrual bleeding, frequent urination, pain in the lower back, pain during intercourse and infertility. If a woman experiences these symptoms, she should mention them to her doctor.
2. Larger Than Normal Uterus
When a doctor gives a woman a pelvic examination, he typically will feel her uterus. If the uterus appears larger than normal, and the woman is not pregnant, a doctor may suspect the presence of uterine fibroids. In addition, fibroids typically give the uterus an irregular shape.
3. Use Imaging Techniques to See Uterine Fibroids
If a doctor suspects the presence of uterine fibroids, various imaging techniques can help confirm the suspicion. A transvaginal ultrasound provides a quick method for visualizing fibroids in a woman's uterus. A more detailed form of ultrasound, hysterosonography uses the injection of a saline solution into the uterus. This solution expands the uterus, making it easier to see the uterine walls and any fibroids. Doctors also can use x-Rays to locate a uterine fibroid. In a technique known as hysterosalpingography (HSG), a doctor injects a dye into the uterus of a woman. A radiologist then x-rays images of the woman's uterus and fallopian tubes. A doctor can then see any fibroids present in these images. Some doctors will also use a CAT scan (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to detect the presence of uterine fibroids.
4. Get a Good Look at Fibroids With Surgery
To diagnose the presence of uterine fibroids, a doctor may recommend surgery. In laparoscopic surgery, a doctor makes a small incision in a woman's lower abdomen and inserts a laparoscope with an attached camera. The doctor can then see any fibroids present in the woman's uterus. In a hysteroscopy, a doctor inserts a small camera into the woman's uterus through her vagina. This camera also allows the doctor to visualize any uterine fibroids.
