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Fibroid Treatments Specialist

Warner Wellness Institute

Christopher A. Warner, MD, FACOG

Board Certified OBGYN & Cosmetic Gynecologist located in Medstar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC

Did you know that most women will have one or more uterine fibroids in her lifetime? For those in and around Washington, DC, Christopher A. Warner, MD, of Warner Wellness Institute offers outstanding diagnostic and treatment services for uterine fibroids and other gynecologic conditions. Booking an appointment is as simple as a phone call or a few moments on the online booking page.

Fibroid Treatments Q & A

What are uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are common, benign growths that develop on the walls of your uterus. Also called myomas or leiomyomas, uterine fibroids almost never develop into cancer. 

You can have one fibroid or many, and they can range in size from undetectable to the human eye to so large they distend your abdomen. Many women never even know they have fibroids, but for others, symptoms can cause discomfort and disruption. 

What are some symptoms of uterine fibroids?

In women who experience symptoms, one of the most common is abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding. If you have periods that last for more than a week or bleed through pads and tampons within a couple of hours, you may have uterine fibroids. 

Additional symptoms include:

  • Frequent need to urinate
  • Trouble fully emptying bladder
  • Constipation
  • Pelvic pain or sensation of pressure
  • Pain in your back or legs

If you notice any of these changes, listen to the messages your body is sending and book a visit at Warner Wellness Institute right away. 

What can be done to treat uterine fibroids?

Not all fibroids require immediate treatment. Dr. Warner may recommend a period of watchful waiting to determine if fibroids are going to worsen or improve on their own. 

If your fibroids are causing pain or other symptoms, you have several treatment options. Medications can help regulate your menstrual cycle, which can improve heavy bleeding and painful periods. You may need to take vitamins and supplemental iron if you are anemic or at risk of developing anemia. 

Minimally invasive procedures can reduce or eliminate uterine fibroids. Some options use radiofrequency to damage the blood vessels that feed fibroids, while others introduce small particles that limit blood flow to fibroids. Fibroids can also be removed during minimally invasive surgery.

For some women, hysterectomy is the best treatment approach for large fibroids or when fibroids return after other treatments. With hysterectomy, your uterus is removed, so fibroids cannot return. If your ovaries are also removed during the procedure your body will immediately enter menopause. 

Dr. Warner works closely with you to ensure you understand all your treatment options. He views his role as a trusted advisor who will provide all the details you need to make an informed decision about your care. That process begins with a diagnostic exam, which you can schedule online or by phone today.