What Are Subserosal Fibroids?
A subserosal fibroid, or subserosal leiomyoma, is a benign tumor that grows on the outside of the uterus underneath the serosa. These growths can be attached to the uterine wall directly or by a thin stalk (pedunculated). Subserosal fibroids don’t usually cause heavy bleeding – a common symptom of most types of uterine fibroids – but they can cause severe pelvic pain. They can vary in size and also put pressure on neighboring organs like the bladder, rectum, and intestines.
Uterine fibroids rarely become cancerous and are therefore not life-threatening. Even so, subserosal fibroids can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms and should be diagnosed as early as possible. If you suspect you have subserosal fibroids, contact American Fibroid Centers to meet with a specialist today. We’ll discuss your symptoms, provide an accurate diagnosis using advanced technology, and determine a treatment plan best suited to your needs.
Symptoms of Subserosal Fibroids
Unlike intramural and submucosal fibroids, subserosal fibroids form on the exterior of the uterus. Because of this, the symptoms tend to be different. As they grow, subserosal fibroids cause bulk-related symptoms such as pelvic pain, bloating, and urinary incontinence as they press on whatever organ or structure is next to them. Common symptoms include:
- Pelvic pain
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Bloating or constipation
- Feeling of heaviness or fullness
- Lower back or leg pain (sciatica)
- Frequent urination
- Pain during sexual intercourse
Causes of Subserosal Fibroids
The exact cause of subserosal fibroids is unknown. However, there are certain studies that highlight factors related to increased fibroid incidence, including genetics and hormones. Higher levels of estrogen can cause fibroids to grow larger and symptoms to be more severe. Furthermore, women of African American descent are three times more likely to develop fibroids than any other racial group. Fibroids typically affect 70-80% of women during their childbearing years, between puberty and menopause.
Find out if you are at risk for uterine fibroids.
How Are Subserosal 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 Subserosal Fibroids
It is crucial to get treatment for your subserosal fibroids, to relieve painful symptoms and avoid complications. At American Fibroid Centers, our affiliated physicians offer Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), a minimally invasive-image guided procedure. UFE involves a small incision in the wrist or groin and blocks blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and die. UFE is performed in an outpatient setting so that patients can return home the same day. Unlike traditional surgery like hysterectomy or myomectomy, UFE preserves the uterus and leaves no scarring. Contact one of our affiliated fibroid centers near you to learn more about the UFE procedure today.
What to Expect from Your Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Our Fibroid Specialists
Our affiliated physicians are among the nation’s most respected providers of complex endovascular procedures, including Uterine Fibroid Embolization. They use state-of-the-art techniques and technology to deliver the most effective outcomes for patients with subserosal fibroids in NY and NJ. Contact us to schedule a consultation at your nearest outpatient center today!
Fibroid Treatment in New York
American Fibroid Centers offers high-quality treatment for subserosal fibroids in New York. Our offices are located in Queens, Brooklyn, Harlem, and Fishkill to give patients the best chance at long-lasting fibroid relief.
Fibroid Treatment in New Jersey
American Fibroid Centers is proud to provide women in New Jersey with minimally invasive fibroid treatment. Visit our West Orange location to meet with an affiliated physician and learn more about Uterine Fibroid Embolization.
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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