Understanding Subserosal Fibroids with Dallas Fibroid Center

Many women will encounter at least one fibroid during their lifetime. These fibroids, varying in size from as small as a pea to as large as a cantaloupe or even more, can profoundly impact a woman’s quality of life and fertility if left untreated, mainly if they cause moderate to severe daily symptoms.

While “fibroid” is the term used to describe these noncancerous tumors in the uterus, they are further categorized based on their specific location.

Of the four major fibroid categories, subserosal fibroids are the most prevalent type found outside the uterus and often grow to be the largest.

Due to their position, they can affect the normal functions of the uterus and neighboring organs, leading to fertility troubles or pregnancy complications if they become large enough.

If you or someone you care about has recently received a diagnosis of subserosal uterine fibroids or is experiencing symptoms associated with these tumors, rest assured that we are here to provide comprehensive diagnosis and effective treatment for subserosal fibroids.

Please keep reading to discover more about subserosal fibroids, including their symptoms, available treatment options, and the connection between subserosal fibroids and pregnancy.

What Are Subserosal Fibroids?

Subserosal fibroids are a specific type of uterine fibroid that develops outside the uterus and extends into the pelvic cavity.

These fibroids are located beneath the outermost layer of the uterus, referred to as the serosa, and can vary in size and shape. They may either grow on a stalk or attach directly to the uterus.

While nearly always benign, subserosal fibroids can develop individually or in clusters and affect various bodily functions, including your ability to get pregnant or maintain a healthy, full-term pregnancy.

Like other fibroids, they may cause symptoms that can significantly impact daily life.

Subserosal Fibroid Symptoms

As with other fibroid types, subserosal fibroids often cause mild to moderate symptoms that include:

• Pelvic pain or discomfort
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Constipation
• Back pain
• Irregular or prolonged periods lasting more than seven days
• Pain during sex
• Pressure or fullness in the lower abdomen
• Frequent urination or difficulty emptying your bladder
• Difficulty getting pregnant

It is crucial to note that not all women who have subserosal fibroids will display symptoms. These fibroids may be detected coincidentally during a routine pelvic examination or imaging scan, sometimes during pregnancy.

Subserosal Fibroids and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Infertility concerns can arise for women with fibroids, especially if you’re actively hoping to get pregnant while living with one or more fibroid tumors.

When it comes to subserosal fibroids, small ones that don’t distort the uterine cavity are unlikely to impact pregnancy significantly. However, larger fibroids, located in specific areas on the exterior of the uterus, can interfere with conception, implantation, or fetal growth.

The size and positioning of subserosal fibroids are crucial factors that affect your ability to conceive and maintain a healthy pregnancy.

Fibroids located on the outer surface of the uterus, close to the fallopian tubes, can disrupt the movement of eggs or sperm, making conception more challenging. In addition, fibroids at the front of the uterus can create a physical barrier, impeding implantation or leading to early miscarriage.

Subserosal fibroids growing on the back or sides of the uterus are less likely to affect conception or pregnancy. However, it’s important to note that subserosal fibroids can still present complications during pregnancy, including preterm labor, preterm birth, or abnormal fetal positioning.

In extremely rare cases, a large subserosal fibroid may necessitate surgical removal during pregnancy if it causes significant symptoms or fully obstructs the birth canal. The need for surgical intervention is determined on a case-by-case basis by your fibroid specialist and OBGYN.

Effective Subserosal Fibroid Treatment Options

Subserosal fibroid treatment aligns with other fibroid types and depends on factors such as the fibroids’ size, location, and symptoms and the patient’s overall health.

Common treatment options for subserosal fibroids include:

• Observation: Regular monitoring is used for women with small fibroids that do not cause moderate to severe symptoms.
• Medications: Certain medications can help manage subserosal fibroid symptoms, such as pain or heavy menstrual bleeding. These medications do not eliminate fibroids but aim to alleviate painful or persistent symptoms.
• Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): A minimally invasive procedure that blocks the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and disappear over time.

In rare instances, surgical intervention may be required for more extreme subserosal fibroids. Treatment options may include:

• Myomectomy: This procedure involves removing the fibroids while preserving the uterus.
• Hysterectomy: In severe cases or when fertility is not a concern, complete removal of the uterus may be recommended.

It is crucial to have a detailed discussion with a fibroid specialist to weigh the risks and benefits of each treatment option and determine the most suitable course of action for managing your subserosal fibroids.

Innovative and Minimally Invasive Subserosal Fibroid Care in Dallas

If you have been diagnosed with subserosal fibroids or are experiencing persistent symptoms, we invite you to visit our Dallas-based fibroid specialists for a thorough evaluation and a personalized treatment plan.

We offer a range of minimally invasive options that can effectively alleviate your symptoms and provide a permanent solution for removing your fibroids without extensive surgery.

Contact us today to learn more and schedule your consultation. We are committed to assisting you in achieving a future free from fibroids.