A diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can feel overwhelming. There are medications to consider, symptoms to manage, and often frustration when your weight or other symptoms do not respond the way you expect.

While diet cannot cure PCOS, the foods you eat can support metabolic health, overall wellbeing, and management of some PCOS symptoms. The goal is not a restrictive “PCOS diet,” but a balanced eating pattern that you can maintain long term.

Why Does Diet Matter in PCOS?

Insulin resistance is common in PCOS, including among women who are not overweight. When the body becomes less responsive to insulin, the pancreas may produce more insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels. Higher insulin levels can contribute to increased androgen production in some women with PCOS and are associated with metabolic risks such as prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.

This is one reason nutrition is an important part of PCOS management. But PCOS is complex, and insulin resistance is not the only factor involved. Diet should not be viewed simply as a way to lose weight or “balance hormones.”

What Eating Pattern Can Help?

There is no single diet that has been proven to be the best for everyone with PCOS.

Current guidelines emphasize healthy eating based on individual preferences and nutritional needs rather than recommending one specific diet. Mediterranean-style eating patterns, higher-fiber diets, and diets that emphasize minimally processed foods can be practical options.

A balanced PCOS-friendly eating pattern can include:

• Plenty of vegetables, including leafy greens and other non-starchy vegetables
• Whole fruits rather than relying on juices or sweetened fruit products
• Whole grains such as oats, brown rice, quinoa, and barley
• Protein sources such as fish, eggs, poultry, beans, lentils, tofu, and other legumes
• Healthy fats from olive oil, nuts, seeds, and avocados
• Fiber-rich foods, which can support fullness, digestion, and blood glucose control

You do not need to eliminate carbohydrates. Choosing higher-fiber carbohydrates and pairing them with protein or healthy fats can help create balanced meals.

Foods to Limit

Rather than completely banning specific foods, focus on limiting foods that are high in added sugars, refined carbohydrates, or saturated fat, particularly when they make up a large portion of the diet.

Examples include:

• Sugary drinks and frequent intake of sweetened beverages
• Sweets, pastries, and other foods high in added sugars
• Highly refined grains
• Highly processed snack foods
• Frequent intake of processed meats
• Foods high in saturated fat when consumed in excess

An occasional treat does not undo healthy eating habits. The overall pattern of your diet matters more than any single food.

What About Supplements?

Some supplements have been studied in PCOS, but they should not replace a balanced diet or prescribed treatment.

Inositol has been studied extensively, particularly myo-inositol and combinations containing D-chiro-inositol. Research suggests it may have metabolic and reproductive benefits for some women, although the evidence is not strong enough to consider it a universal treatment for PCOS.

Vitamin D supplementation may be appropriate when a person has vitamin D deficiency, but taking high doses without medical guidance is not recommended.

Omega-3 fatty acids and other supplements have also been studied, but evidence varies, and they should be considered based on individual needs rather than automatically recommended for everyone with PCOS.

Talk with your healthcare provider before starting supplements, particularly if you take medications or are trying to become pregnant.

What About Weight Loss?

For women with PCOS who are overweight, even modest weight loss may improve some metabolic and reproductive outcomes. However, PCOS occurs across a range of body sizes, and weight loss should not be the only measure of successful treatment.

If weight management is one of your goals, focus on sustainable habits rather than crash diets or extreme calorie restriction. Regular physical activity is also an important part of PCOS care. Current guidelines generally recommend following physical-activity recommendations appropriate for your health and abilities, rather than prescribing one exercise plan for every woman.

Most importantly, you do not need to earn healthcare by losing weight first. PCOS symptoms and metabolic health deserve attention at every body size.

Building a Sustainable PCOS Diet

Managing PCOS through nutrition is not about finding a perfect food or following a strict list of foods you can never eat again.

It is about creating an eating pattern that provides adequate nutrition, supports metabolic health, fits your culture and preferences, and can realistically be maintained over time.

If you have PCOS and are unsure where to start, your healthcare provider can help you identify your individual metabolic and reproductive health needs and determine whether additional treatment or nutritional support may be appropriate.

Schedule your women’s health consultation with IVANA MD in Missouri City, TX.
346-585-4077
4220 Cartwright Road, Suite 201, Missouri City, Texas 77459

References

American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2023). Recommendations from the 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Fertility and Sterility, 120(4), 767–793. Recommendations from the 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (2023) | American Society for Reproductive Medicine | ASRM 

Moran, L. J., Ko, H., Misso, M., Marsh, K., Noakes, M., Talbot, M., Frearson, M., Thondan, M., Stepto, N., & Teede, H. J. (2013). Dietary composition in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review to inform evidence-based guidelines. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 113(4), 520–545. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2012.11.018 

Teede, H. J., Tay, C. T., Laven, J. J. E., Dokras, A., Moran, L. J., Piltonen, T. T., Costello, M. F., Boivin, J., Redman, L. M., Boyle, J. A., et al. (2023). Recommendations from the 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Fertility and Sterility, 120(4), 767–793. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.07.025 

Teede, H. J., Misso, M. L., Costello, M. F., Dokras, A., Laven, J., Moran, L., Piltonen, T., & Norman, R. J. (2018). Recommendations from the international evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome. Human Reproduction, 33(9), 1602–1618. https://doi.org/10.1093/humrep/dey256 

The post PCOS and Food: How Nutrition Can Support Your Hormonal Health appeared first on IvanaMd.

Many people think of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) as an adult condition. But PCOS can become apparent during adolescence, although diagnosing it in teenagers can be challenging because some menstrual and hormonal changes are normal during puberty.

Recognizing concerning symptoms early can help teenagers receive appropriate evaluation, support, and treatment rather than having persistent symptoms dismissed as “just hormones.”

What Does PCOS Look Like in Teenagers?

The 2023 International Evidence-Based Guideline recommends a more careful approach to diagnosing PCOS in adolescents.

For adolescents, both of the following are required for a PCOS diagnosis:

• Persistent ovulatory dysfunction or irregular menstrual cycles
• Clinical or biochemical hyperandrogenism, such as excessive facial or body hair or elevated androgen levels

Ultrasound and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) testing are not recommended for diagnosing PCOS during adolescence, particularly within 8 years after the first menstrual period, because normal pubertal development can produce findings that resemble PCOS.

Menstrual irregularity also needs to be considered in the context of how long it has been since the first period. Some irregularity is normal during the early years after menstruation begins, but certain patterns—such as cycles longer than 90 days more than a year after the first period or persistently irregular cycles more than two years after the first period—should be evaluated.

What About Acne?

Acne is extremely common during adolescence and, by itself, does not mean a teenager has PCOS.

Persistent or severe acne may occur alongside PCOS, particularly when there are other signs of androgen excess such as hirsutism or irregular menstrual cycles. A healthcare provider can consider the complete clinical picture rather than using acne alone to diagnose PCOS.

Why Does Early Recognition Matter?

PCOS can affect more than menstrual cycles. Adolescents with PCOS may have an increased risk of metabolic problems, including insulin resistance and abnormal cholesterol levels, as well as a higher prevalence of anxiety and depression.

Appropriate evaluation creates an opportunity to identify these concerns early and provide individualized support. Healthy eating patterns, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and avoiding tobacco are beneficial for overall health and are part of PCOS management.

However, having PCOS does not mean that a teenager will develop diabetes, heart disease, or infertility. Risk varies between individuals and can be influenced by factors such as weight, family history, metabolic health, and other medical conditions.

How Is a Teenager Evaluated for PCOS?

Evaluation usually begins with a detailed menstrual, medical, medication, and family history, along with a physical examination when appropriate.

Blood tests may be used to evaluate androgen levels and rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. Depending on the presentation, a clinician may also assess thyroid function, prolactin, or other causes of irregular menstruation.

Routine pelvic ultrasound is not necessary to diagnose PCOS in adolescents. It may still be recommended when there is another clinical reason to perform imaging.

When the diagnosis is uncertain, a teenager may be considered “at increased risk” of PCOS and followed over time rather than being given a premature diagnosis.

How Is PCOS Treated in Teens?

Treatment depends on the teenager’s symptoms, health risks, and individual goals.

Lifestyle support is an important part of care. This does not mean putting a teenager on a restrictive diet or focusing only on weight. Healthy nutrition, regular movement, sleep, and positive body image should be emphasized.

Combined oral contraceptives may be used to regulate menstrual cycles and help manage acne or excessive hair growth when appropriate.

Metformin may be considered for some adolescents, particularly when metabolic concerns are present. Other treatments for acne or excess hair may also be appropriate depending on the individual situation.

Mental health should also be part of PCOS care. Anxiety, depression, and concerns about body image can occur alongside PCOS, so screening and appropriate support are important.

When Should a Teenager See a Doctor?

Consider an evaluation if a teenager has:

• Persistently irregular or absent periods
• Excess facial or body hair
• Persistent or severe acne, particularly alongside menstrual irregularity or other signs of androgen excess
• Other symptoms or concerns suggesting a hormonal or metabolic problem

These symptoms do not automatically mean PCOS. Other conditions can cause similar changes, which is why proper evaluation matters.

Connecting the Dots Early

PCOS is a long-term condition, but symptoms and health risks can be managed. For teenagers, the goal is not simply to put a label on normal pubertal changes. It is to recognize persistent or concerning patterns, rule out other causes, provide appropriate treatment, and support long-term physical and emotional health.

If you are concerned about your daughter’s menstrual cycles, acne, excess hair growth, or other symptoms, a conversation with a qualified healthcare professional is a good place to start.

Schedule your women’s health consultation with IVANA MD in Missouri City, TX.
346-585-4077
4220 Cartwright Road, Suite 201, Missouri City, Texas 77459

References:

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2019). Screening and management of the hyperandrogenic adolescent. ACOG Committee Opinion No. 789. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 134(4), e106–e114.  Screening and Management of the Hyperandrogenic Adolescent | ACOG 

NICE. (2026). Polycystic ovary syndrome. NICE Guideline 

Polycystic ovary syndrome: methods 

Teede, H. J., Tay, C. T., Laven, J. J. E., Dokras, A., Moran, L. J., Piltonen, T. T., Costello, M. F., Boivin, J., Redman, L. M., Boyle, J. A., et al. (2023). Recommendations from the 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Fertility and Sterility, 120(4), 767–793. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.07.025 

Teede, H. J., Misso, M. L., Costello, M. F., Dokras, A., Laven, J., Moran, L., Piltonen, T., & Norman, R. J. (2018). Recommendations from the international evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome. Human Reproduction, 33(9), 1602–1618. https://doi.org/10.1093/humrep/dey256 

The post PCOS in Young Women: The Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore appeared first on IvanaMd.

Finding out you have uterine fibroids when you are trying to start or grow your family can feel alarming. Questions often follow: Will I be able to get pregnant? Could fibroids cause a miscarriage? Do I need surgery before trying?

These are valid concerns. The good news is that many women with fibroids become pregnant and have healthy pregnancies. However, fibroids can affect fertility and pregnancy differently depending on their size, number, and especially their location.

Can You Get Pregnant with Fibroids?

Yes. Having fibroids does not automatically mean you will have difficulty getting pregnant. Many women with fibroids conceive without fertility treatment.

In some cases, however, fibroids can interfere with fertility, particularly when they change the shape of the uterine cavity. The effect depends largely on where the fibroid is located rather than simply whether a fibroid is present.

How Can Fibroids Affect Fertility?

Fibroids may affect fertility by:

• Distorting the uterine cavity, which can interfere with implantation
• Affecting the uterine lining and its ability to support implantation
• Occasionally affecting the fallopian tubes or the normal anatomy of the reproductive tract
• Causing changes in the uterus that may make conception or implantation more difficult

Not every fibroid causes these problems, and many women with fibroids have no fertility-related complications.

Which Fibroids Are More Likely to Affect Fertility?

Location matters.

Submucosal fibroids, which grow into the uterine cavity, are the type most consistently associated with reduced fertility and pregnancy rates. Removing cavity-distorting submucosal fibroids may improve the chances of pregnancy in appropriately selected patients.

Intramural fibroids, which grow within the muscular wall of the uterus, have a more complicated relationship with fertility. Larger intramural fibroids, particularly those that distort the uterine cavity, may affect reproductive outcomes. However, surgery is not automatically recommended for every intramural fibroid.

Subserosal fibroids, which grow on the outside of the uterus, generally have less effect on fertility because they do not directly distort the uterine cavity.

Fibroids and Pregnancy

Many women with fibroids have uncomplicated pregnancies. However, fibroids can be associated with an increased risk of certain pregnancy complications, including:

• Miscarriage
• Preterm birth
• Placental abnormalities
• Fetal malposition, such as breech presentation
• Cesarean delivery

The risk varies according to factors such as fibroid size, number, and location.

Fibroids may also change in size during pregnancy. Some grow, particularly in early pregnancy, while others remain stable or become smaller. Rapid changes can sometimes cause pelvic or abdominal pain.

Do Fibroids Need to Be Treated Before Pregnancy?

Not necessarily.

Whether treatment is appropriate depends on the fibroid’s location and size, your symptoms, your fertility history, and whether it is affecting the uterine cavity.

Small fibroids that are not distorting the uterine cavity and are not causing significant symptoms may simply be monitored.

When treatment is recommended, myomectomy—surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus—may be considered for women who wish to become pregnant. The approach can include hysteroscopic surgery for certain submucosal fibroids or laparoscopic/open surgery for other types.

Myomectomy has potential benefits and risks, including scar tissue formation and, depending on the depth and location of the uterine incision, possible implications for delivery in a future pregnancy.

Can You Have Fertility Treatment with Fibroids?

Yes. Women with fibroids may pursue fertility treatments such as IUI or IVF. However, whether fibroids should be treated before fertility treatment depends on the individual situation.

If you have fibroids and are trying to conceive, an OB-GYN or fertility specialist can assess the number, size, and location of your fibroids and determine whether they are likely to affect your fertility or pregnancy.

At IVANA MD, we provide individualized gynecologic care and can help you understand your options and coordinate care with fertility specialists when needed.

Schedule your women’s health consultation with IVANA MD in Missouri City, TX.
346-585-4077
4220 Cartwright Road, Suite 201, Missouri City, Texas 77459

References: 

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2025). Uterine fibroids. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/uterine-fibroids 

Stewart, E. A. (2015). Uterine fibroids. New England Journal of Medicine, 372(17), 1646–1655. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMcp1411029 

Stewart, E. A., Cookson, C. L., Gandolfo, R. A., & Schulze-Rath, R. (2017). Epidemiology of uterine fibroids: A systematic review. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 124(10), 1501–1512. https://doi.org/10.1111/1471-0528.14640 

Pritts, E. A., Parker, W. H., & Olive, D. L. (2009). Fibroids and infertility: An updated systematic review of the evidence. Fertility and Sterility, 91(4), 1215–1223. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.01.051

The post Can You Get Pregnant With Fibroids? Let’s Talk Fertility appeared first on IvanaMd.

Introduction

Uterine fibroids are among the most common benign growths affecting the uterus, particularly during the reproductive years. At IVANA MD, Dr. Ivana provides gynecologic care to help patients understand fibroids, manage symptoms, and discuss treatment options based on their individual needs and reproductive goals.

If you have been diagnosed with fibroids or are experiencing symptoms that may be related to them, understanding your options can help you make informed decisions about your care. For personalized evaluation, call 346-585-4077 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ivana.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids, also called leiomyomas or myomas, are noncancerous growths made up primarily of smooth muscle and fibrous tissue. They can develop within the uterine wall, beneath the inner lining, or on the outer surface of the uterus.

Fibroids vary considerably in size and number. Some are so small that they cause no symptoms, while others can become large enough to enlarge or distort the uterus.

Fibroids are very common, although estimates of how many women develop them vary depending on the population studied and the method used to detect them.

Types of Fibroids

1. Intramural Fibroids – Grow within the muscular wall of the uterus and are the most common type.
2. Subserosal Fibroids – Grow toward the outer surface of the uterus and may extend into the pelvic cavity.
3. Submucosal Fibroids – Develop beneath the inner lining of the uterus and may protrude into the uterine cavity. These fibroids can be particularly associated with heavy menstrual bleeding and may affect fertility in some women.
4. Pedunculated Fibroids – Attached to the uterus by a stalk and can develop on either the inner or outer surface.

Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

Many women with fibroids have no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they can depend on the size, number, and location of the fibroids.

Possible symptoms include:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Frequent urination
• Difficulty emptying the bladder
• Constipation or pressure in the rectum
• Lower back or abdominal pain
• Pain during intercourse
• An enlarged abdomen
• Difficulty becoming pregnant in some cases

Heavy menstrual bleeding caused by fibroids can also lead to iron-deficiency anemia, which may cause fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath.

Fibroids may affect fertility in some women, particularly when they distort the uterine cavity. However, many women with fibroids become pregnant without fertility problems.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of fibroids is not fully understood. Their development appears to involve genetic, hormonal, and other biological factors.

• Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone can influence fibroid growth.
• Genetics: Having a close family member with fibroids may increase your risk.
• Age: Fibroids are most commonly diagnosed during the reproductive years.
• Race: Fibroids are more common and tend to develop at younger ages and cause greater symptom burden among Black women. The reasons for these differences are not fully understood.
• Body weight and lifestyle: Obesity and certain dietary patterns have been associated with fibroid risk, but these factors do not explain all cases.

Having one or more risk factors does not mean that you will develop fibroids.

Diagnosis at IVANA MD

Your healthcare provider may suspect fibroids based on your symptoms and pelvic examination. Imaging is usually used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the size and location of the fibroids.

Depending on your symptoms and medical history, evaluation may include:

• Pelvic examination
• Ultrasound imaging
• MRI when additional information is needed
• Hysterosonography or hysteroscopy in selected cases

Not every woman with fibroids needs every type of test. Your evaluation should be based on your symptoms and individual circumstances.

Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids

Treatment depends on your symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, your age, overall health, and whether you wish to become pregnant.

1. Watchful Waiting

If fibroids are not causing significant symptoms, treatment may not be necessary. Your healthcare provider may recommend monitoring your symptoms rather than treating the fibroids immediately.

2. Medication

Medications may help manage symptoms, particularly heavy menstrual bleeding and pain.

• Hormonal birth control: May reduce heavy menstrual bleeding but does not necessarily shrink fibroids.
• Tranexamic acid: A non-hormonal medication that can reduce heavy menstrual bleeding.
• GnRH agonists or antagonists: Can temporarily reduce fibroid size and bleeding in appropriate patients. Their use depends on the specific medication, treatment goals, and individual health considerations.

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures

• Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): Blocks blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink. Its suitability depends on factors including symptoms and reproductive goals.
• Radiofrequency ablation: Uses heat to destroy fibroid tissue and reduce its size. Different techniques are available.
• Focused ultrasound: Uses focused energy to treat selected fibroids without traditional surgery.

Not every procedure is appropriate for every type or location of fibroid, so your provider can discuss the potential benefits and limitations.

4. Surgical Options

• Myomectomy: Removes fibroids while leaving the uterus in place. It may be an option for women who wish to preserve fertility, although the effect on future pregnancy depends on the number, size, and location of the fibroids and the type of surgery performed.
• Hysterectomy: Removes the uterus and is the definitive treatment for fibroids. Because pregnancy is no longer possible after hysterectomy, it is generally considered only when a patient does not desire future pregnancy.

Lifestyle and Fibroids

There is no guaranteed way to prevent fibroids from developing. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can support your overall health.

Helpful habits include:

• Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other nutrient-rich foods
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Staying physically active
• Getting adequate sleep
• Managing stress in ways that work for you
• Addressing heavy menstrual bleeding early to reduce the risk of anemia

Lifestyle changes should complement, rather than replace, appropriate medical evaluation and treatment.

Living with Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids can affect menstrual health, comfort, intimacy, daily activities, and, in some cases, fertility. But a diagnosis does not automatically mean you need surgery.

If you are experiencing heavy periods, pelvic pressure, pain, or other symptoms, your gynecologist can help determine whether fibroids are responsible and discuss treatment options that fit your health and reproductive goals.

At IVANA MD, Dr. Ivana provides individualized gynecologic care to help you understand your diagnosis and make informed decisions about your treatment.

4220 Cartwright Road, Suite 201, Missouri City, Texas 77459
346-585-4077

References

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2025). Uterine fibroids. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/uterine-fibroids 

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2021). Uterine artery embolization. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/uterine-artery-embolization 

Donnez, J., & Dolmans, M.-M. (2016). Uterine fibroid management: From the present to the future. Human Reproduction Update, 22(6), 665–686. https://doi.org/10.1093/humupd/dmw023 

Laughlin, S. K., Herring, A. H., Savitz, D. A., Olshan, A. F., Fielding, J. R., Nylander, E., & Hartmann, K. E. (2010). Pregnancy-related fibroid reduction. Fertility and Sterility, 94(6), 2421–2423. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.12.043 

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2019). Heavy menstrual bleeding: Assessment and management (NG88). https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng88

The post You Have Fibroids. Now what? Understanding Your Treatment Options appeared first on IvanaMd.

Most fibroids do not cause symptoms and may never require treatment. Fibroids themselves are not cancer, and having uterine fibroids does not appear to increase the risk of developing uterine cancer. A rare type of cancer called uterine leiomyosarcoma can resemble a fibroid, but it is not thought to develop from an existing benign fibroid.

Fibroids can be very small or can grow several inches in size. Some women have a single fibroid, while others have multiple fibroids. Their size and location can affect whether they cause symptoms.

Various Forms of Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids are generally classified according to where they are located:

• Intramural fibroids grow within the muscular wall of the uterus and are the most common type.
• Submucosal fibroids develop beneath the inner lining of the uterus and can sometimes contribute to heavy menstrual bleeding or fertility problems.
• Subserosal fibroids grow toward the outside of the uterus and may become quite large.
• Pedunculated fibroids are attached to the uterus by a stalk and can occur on either the inner or outer surface.

A woman can have more than one type at the same time.

How Symptoms Present Themselves

Many women with fibroids have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can vary depending on the size, number, and location of the fibroids.

Possible symptoms include:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Pelvic pressure or pain
• Lower back or abdominal pain
• Pain during sex
• Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
• Constipation or pressure in the rectum
• An enlarged abdomen
• Bleeding between periods

Heavy menstrual bleeding can sometimes lead to iron-deficiency anemia, which may cause fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath.

Fibroids can also affect fertility in some women, particularly when they distort the inside of the uterine cavity. However, many women with fibroids become pregnant without difficulty.

How Are Fibroids Diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider may suspect fibroids during a pelvic examination if the uterus feels enlarged or irregular. Imaging is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the size and location of the fibroids.

Ultrasound is commonly used to evaluate the uterus and identify fibroids. Depending on your symptoms and circumstances, your provider may recommend additional imaging or procedures.

Treatment

Treatment depends on your symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, your age, and whether you hope to become pregnant.

If you have no symptoms or your symptoms are mild, your provider may recommend monitoring the fibroids rather than treating them immediately.

When treatment is needed, options may include medications to help control heavy bleeding or pain, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery. A myomectomy removes fibroids while preserving the uterus and may be an option for some women who want future pregnancies. A hysterectomy removes the uterus and is a definitive treatment for fibroids, but it is not appropriate for everyone.

Your gynecologist can help you choose an approach based on your symptoms, reproductive goals, and overall health.

When to See a Gynecologist

Talk with your healthcare provider if you experience unusually heavy or prolonged periods, pelvic pain or pressure, bleeding between periods, pain during sex, difficulty becoming pregnant, or changes in urination or bowel movements.

Fibroids are common and treatable, and having them does not automatically mean you need surgery. The right treatment depends on your individual situation.

Find a Gynecologist for Fibroids

If you need more information about fibroids, treatment options, or surgical management, contact IVANA MD.

4220 Cartwright Road, Suite 201, Missouri City, Texas 77459
346-585-4077

References

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2025). Uterine fibroids. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/uterine-fibroids

Stewart, E. A. (2015). Clinical practice. Uterine fibroids. New England Journal of Medicine, 372(17), 1646–1655. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMcp1411029

Stewart, E. A., Cookson, C. L., Gandolfo, R. A., & Schulze-Rath, R. (2017). Epidemiology of uterine fibroids: A systematic review. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 124(10), 1501–1512. https://doi.org/10.1111/1471-0528.14640

Laughlin, S. K., Schroeder, J. C., & Baird, D. D. (2010). New directions in the epidemiology of uterine fibroids. Seminars in Reproductive Medicine, 28(3), 204–217. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0030-1251477 

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