Understanding Calcified Fibroids with Dallas Fibroid Center

Numerous women are diagnosed with uterine fibroids yearly. These benign tumors vary in size, number, and severity and often cause moderate to severe symptoms.

While many fibroids require treatment for symptom relief and improved fertility, some may shrink naturally, while others undergo calcification.

Calcified fibroids occur when fibroid tissue undergoes degeneration and calcification, which can be triggered by hormonal changes or inadequate blood supply to an active fibroid.

Symptoms of calcified fibroids are like other uterine fibroids but are less common and include pelvic pain, discomfort during intercourse, and heavy menstrual bleeding.

Whether you have recently been diagnosed with calcified fibroids or seek more information, we are here to support you throughout your journey.

Continue reading for a deeper dive into calcified fibroids, exploring their symptoms and treatment options and addressing important questions such as “Can calcified fibroids become cancerous? Or “Do calcified fibroids need to be removed?”

What Is a Calcified Fibroid?

Calcified uterine fibroids, also referred to as fibroid degeneration, develop when the tissue of a uterine fibroid undergoes calcification and subsequent hardening. This process involves calcium deposition in the fibroid tissue, reducing flexibility.

Calcified fibroids can arise in various types of fibroids, including subserosal, intramural, and submucosal.

Although calcified fibroids are generally not life-threatening, they can present with various symptoms requiring medical attention and intervention.

Symptoms of Calcified Fibroids

The symptoms of calcified fibroids can vary based on the size and location of the fibroid. Many women with calcified fibroids may not experience any symptoms, while others may encounter one or more of the following:

• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Pain during intercourse
• Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
• Constipation

Calcified fibroids can also potentially lead to complications in fertility or pregnancy, including:

• Miscarriage
• Premature placenta detachment
• Premature labor
• Abnormal presentation

So, Can Calcified Fibroids Become Cancerous?

The short answer is possibly, but only sometimes.

Calcified fibroids are typically noncancerous in nature.

However, in rare instances, a calcified fibroid may undergo malignant transformation, becoming a calcified leiomyosarcoma. This form of cancer originates from the smooth muscle tissue of the uterus. The risk of a fibroid developing into cancer is very low, estimated to be less than 1%.

It is crucial to note that diagnosing a leiomyosarcoma can be challenging since it can resemble a benign fibroid on standard ultrasound or MRI imaging tests.

If you have a calcified fibroid or are experiencing related symptoms, it is essential to consult with a fibroid specialist to determine the most appropriate course of action for your specific situation. This may involve monitoring the fibroids or considering their removal for further evaluation and testing.

Do Calcified Fibroids Need to Be Removed If They Aren’t Suspected to Be Malignant?

Calcified fibroid treatment varies depending on individual circumstances. Therefore, developing a personalized care plan for all fibroids, including calcified fibroids, is highly recommended.

In most cases, calcified fibroids do not require treatment as they are typically in the advanced stages of their lifecycle.

However, each fibroid diagnosis is unique. Therefore, if your calcified fibroids are causing significant symptoms and negatively impacting your daily life, it is advisable to consider minimally invasive treatment options for their removal.

On the other hand, a “wait and watch” approach may be appropriate if the calcified fibroids are asymptomatic.

If you are living with calcified fibroids, it is essential to consult with a fibroid specialist to determine the most suitable course of action, including whether treatment for their removal is necessary in your case.

Common Calcified Uterine Fibroid Treatment Options

As mentioned, the specific treatment approach for calcified fibroids is determined based on factors such as the fibroids’ size, location, symptoms, and the patient’s overall health.

Common treatment options for calcified uterine fibroids include:

• Observation, where the fibroids are monitored over time without immediate intervention.
• Medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms or shrink the fibroids.

In rare cases, surgical intervention such as a myomectomy or a hysterectomy may be necessary, especially when symptoms are severe.

Comprehensive Calcified Fibroid Care in Dallas, TX

Calcified fibroids don’t have to be a forever condition for you.

If you have been diagnosed with calcified fibroids or are experiencing chronic symptoms, visit our Dallas-based office for a thorough evaluation and a personalized treatment plan.

We offer a range of minimally invasive options to alleviate your symptoms and improve your well-being effectively.

Contact us today to learn more and schedule your consultation, taking the first step towards a future free from fibroid-related issues.