Health Information
Uterine Fibroids
When To Call a Doctor
Call to make an appointment if you have possible symptoms of a problem from a uterine fibroid, including:
- Reference Heavy menstrual bleeding Opens New Window.
- Periods that have changed from relatively pain-free to painful over the past 3 to 6 months.
- Frequent painful urination, or an inability to control the flow of urine.
- A change in the length of your menstrual cycle over 3 to 6 menstrual cycles.
- New persistent pain or heaviness in the lower abdomen or pelvis.
Watchful waiting
Unless you have bothersome or severe symptoms, you will probably only need to have a fibroid checked during your yearly gynecological exam.
During a pregnancy, your doctor will check for changes in fibroid size and position.
Who to see
Uterine fibroids can be diagnosed and treated by any of the following health professionals:
- Reference Family medicine physician Opens New Window
- Reference Gynecologist Opens New Window
- Reference Internist Opens New Window
- Reference Nurse practitioner Opens New Window
- Reference Physician assistant Opens New Window
You may need to see a gynecologist for further testing or treatment.
To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Reference Making the Most of Your Appointment.
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