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Uterine fibroids can, in most cases, be followed and watched. This is particularly true for older women. The intervention you choose, if any, will depend on your symptoms and age. One of the most common symptoms of uterine fibroids is increased bleeding with menses. If the cause of increased bleeding is known to be a fibroid tumor impinging on the uterine cavity, (a ‘sub-mucous’ fibroid), this can be followed by pelvic exams and ultrasounds. In addition, attention to diet by increasing iron, folate , and vitamin B12 sources can help prevent anemia , which is due to blood loss.
References:
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists website. Available at: http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp074.cfm . Accessed June, 30, 2008.
The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy . 17th ed. Merck and Co.; 1999.
The National Uterine Fibroids Foundation website. Available at: http://www.nuff.org/health_riskfactors.htm .
National Women’s Health Resource Center website. Available at: http://www.healthywomen.org/ . Accessed March 1, 2006.
Last reviewed June 2008 by Ganson Purcell Jr., MD, FACOG, FACPE
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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