Uterine fibroids are extremely common, with research showing as many as 80% of women have at least one fibroid by age 50. Georgia Obstetrics and Gynecology provides treatments for fibroids at its offices in Atlanta and Alpharetta, Georgia, including the minimally invasive Acessa® procedure. To book a fibroid examination, call the nearest office or schedule an appointment online today.
What are fibroids?
Fibroids are common uterine growths that usually appear during a woman’s reproductive years. They rarely become malignant (cancerous), but they can grow to uncomfortable sizes and distort the inside or outside of the uterus.
What are the symptoms of fibroids?
Generally, fibroids cause no symptoms. However, if there are several of them or they grow quite large, you may notice:
- Pelvic pressure or pain
- Constipation
- Painful periods or a heavier flow
- Stomach distention
- Longer or more frequent menstrual cycles
- Stomach or lower back pain
- Pain during sex
Occasionally, a fibroid can outgrow its blood supply and die, causing sudden severe pain.
The Georgia Obstetrics and Gynecology physicians have years of experience treating gynecological disorders of all kinds and may recommend birth control options to prevent fibroids from forming or an IUD containing progesterone, which can curb their size. They also offer the minimally invasive Acessa treatment.
Acessa is not a removal procedure. Instead, it targets and shrinks fibroids with radiofrequency (RF) energy. This allows you to relieve fibroid symptoms without more drastic measures like a hysterectomy.
What happens during the Acessa treatment for fibroids?
Your provider usually performs the procedure with general anesthesia so that you will be asleep throughout. Once you are comfortable, they insert a thin, flexible surgical instrument called a laparoscope through a tiny abdominal incision to examine the area and perform surgery.
They then use a very thin needle to deliver bursts of RF energy directly to the fibroid. This destroys the fibroid tissue and creates a cascade of reactions that shrink it.
Depending on the size and number of fibroids, your procedure may take around two hours. Once complete, you’ll go to a recovery room before going home the same day.
What can I expect after fibroid treatment?
You may experience pain similar to menstrual cramping, and over-the-counter medications can make you more comfortable. You may also notice light bleeding or vaginal discharge for about a week after your procedure.
Avoid strenuous activity for a few days or up to a week. After a few weeks, your fibroid symptoms should diminish as the tissue shrinks.
You don’t have to endure the uncomfortable symptoms of fibroids any longer. To learn more about treatment options for fibroids, call Georgia Obstetrics and Gynecology or request an appointment online today.
