What Are Submucosal Fibroids?
Submucosal fibroids are non-cancerous, or benign, tumors that grow inside the uterus just under the surface of its lining. They can develop individually or in clusters. Submucosal fibroids are the least common type of fibroid but are most likely to cause severe heavy bleeding and anemia. Because of their location, these fibroids can present symptoms even when they are very small and often contribute to fertility and pregnancy complications.
Early diagnosis of submucosal fibroids is essential to protect a woman’s reproductive health. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of submucosal fibroids, contact American Fibroid Centers today. Our affiliated physicians are highly skilled in diagnosing and treating all types of fibroids and will ensure you get access to the care you deserve. Keep reading to learn more about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for submucosal fibroids below.
Symptoms of Submucosal Fibroids
Because submucosal fibroids grow just beneath the inner lining of the uterus, they often cause more bleeding problems than other types of fibroids. They are thought to be responsible for 5 to 10% of cases of abnormal uterine bleeding, which can lead to the development of anemia. The main symptoms of submucosal fibroids include:
- Heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding between or during periods
- Pain in the pelvis or lower back
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Anemia, sometimes severe
- Passing frequent or large blood clots
Causes of Submucosal Fibroids
Experts are unsure of what directly causes submucosal fibroids, but certain risk factors can influence their appearance and development. Genetics and hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, are linked to their growth. Fibroids are most common in women of childbearing age, up until menopause. In addition, African American women seem to be at a higher risk for these particular fibroids. Regardless of their type, fibroids affect up to 80% of women by the time they are 50.
Find out if you are at risk for uterine fibroids.
How Are Submucosal Fibroids Diagnosed?
Fibroids are usually found during a routine pelvic exam with your gynecologist. Imaging tests, such as ultrasound and MRI, may be used to confirm a diagnosis. Since subserosal fibroids can be hard to find due to their location and size, they are best diagnosed through an MRI. This test uses magnets and radio waves to produce high-resolution images and helps your doctor distinguish between fibroids and adenomyosis, which often gets misdiagnosed. If subserosal fibroids are present, our affiliated physicians at American Fibroid Centers will ensure you get the proper treatment for your condition.
Non-Surgical Treatment for Submucosal Fibroids
Treatment for submucosal fibroids can reduce menstrual bleeding, relieve pain, preserve fertility, and improve issues with surrounding organs affected by the fibroids. It’s important to discuss all treatment options with your doctor to ensure you make the right decision. At American Fibroid Centers, our affiliated physicians perform Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), a minimally invasive-image guided procedure used to shrink and eliminate fibroids in a safe and effective manner. UFE offers several benefits over traditional surgery, including less scarring, fewer complications, and no hospital stay. Contact your nearest outpatient center to schedule a consultation and learn more about UFE today!
What to Expect from Your Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Our Fibroid Specialists
At American Fibroid Centers, our board-certified affiliated physicians are the nation’s leading experts in minimally invasive endovascular care. They offer UFE, a non-surgical fibroid treatment, to help women find relief from their painful and debilitating symptoms. Contact your nearest location in NY or NJ to schedule a consultation and get the treatment you need today!
Fibroid Treatment in New York
American Fibroid Centers provides patients in New York with cutting-edge fibroid care. Our offices are located in Queens, Brooklyn, Fishkill, and Harlem and offer access to minimally invasive procedures, including UFE.
Fibroid Treatment in New Jersey
American Fibroid Centers proudly offers non-surgical fibroid care and treatment for women in New Jersey. Our office, located in West Orange, has a team of affiliated interventional radiologists here to help.
What Our Patients Are Saying
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From the Experts
Get to know more about the symptoms, causes, treatment, and care of Uterine Fibroids.
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