Fibroids Specialist
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Pineland Associates
Theresa R Benecki, MD
Gynecologist located in Brick, NJ
Fibroids are benign tumors that grow in a woman’s uterus. They’re a common gynecological condition that affects about 20% of women of childbearing age. Fibroids don’t always cause problems, but they may be the underlying cause of your abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain. Theresa Benecki, MD, at Pineland Associates in Brick, New Jersey, is an experienced gynecologist who takes a patient-centered approach to care. Whether your fibroids affect your life or not, Dr. Benecki provides the attentive care you need. Call the office, or book an appointment online today.
Fibroids Q & A
What are fibroids?
Fibroids are a type of tumor that grows in the lining of a woman’s uterus. These benign (non-cancerous) tumors develop in women during their childbearing years.
Fibroids vary in size and may be as small as a pencil tip or larger than a softball. You can also have one single tumor or multiple tumors.
Though researchers are still investigating what causes fibroids to grow, they theorize it may be because of a combination of hormones and genetics. You may be at greater risk of developing fibroids if they run in your family.
What are the symptoms of fibroids?
Given the variation in size and number, fibroids don’t always cause symptoms. In fact, many women may not even know they have fibroids until they’re incidentally discovered during their annual well-woman exam.
Common signs and symptoms of fibroids include:
- Abnormal bleeding
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Increase in urination
- Constipation
- Low back pain
- Pain during sex
- Weight gain
- Enlargement of your lower abdominal area
Fibroids may shrink and go away on their own, especially smaller fibroids. However, if you have these symptoms and suspect fibroids, schedule a consultation with Dr. Benecki.
How are fibroids diagnosed?
Dr. Benecki performs a physical and pelvic exam to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. She may determine you have fibroids after she completes your pelvic exam.
To confirm a diagnosis and determine the location and size of your fibroids, Dr. Benecki may request imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan.
How are fibroids treated?
Dr. Benecki takes a patient-centered approach to care and customizes your fibroid treatment plan based on your age, symptoms, and the size and location of your fibroids.
For women with mild symptoms, Dr. Benecki may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers and prescribe hormonal contraception to reduce heavy bleeding. To shrink fibroids, she prescribes gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH).
For women with moderate-to-severe symptoms, Dr. Benecki recommends surgery to remove the fibroids. The type of procedure she performs depends on the location of your fibroid and your current and future pregnancy plans.
Fibroids are a common gynecological problem that may or may not cause problems. For comprehensive care from an experienced gynecologist, call Pineland Associates, or schedule an appointment online today.
