Calcified Fibroids Explained

What Are Calcified Uterine Fibroids?

Calcified uterine fibroids are a type of benign uterine fibroid growth that develops in the muscular wall of the uterus. They consist of fibrous tissue and muscle cells and can vary in size from small nodules to larger masses.

Calcification occurs when calcium salts deposit within the fibroid tissue, causing it to harden and become more visible on imaging tests such as ultrasounds or MRIs.

Symptoms of Calcified Fibroids

Calcified fibroids may not always cause noticeable symptoms, but when they do, they can vary depending on the size, location, and number of fibroids present.

Common calcified uterine fibroid symptoms may include:

• Pelvic pain or discomfort
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Pressure or fullness in the pelvic region
• Frequent urination
• Difficulty emptying the bladder completely
• Pain during sexual intercourse

Calcified Fibroids and Hip Pain

In some cases, calcified fibroids may cause referred pain to the hips or lower back due to the pressure they exert on nearby nerves or tissues.

Hip pain associated with calcified fibroids can range from mild discomfort to more severe, debilitating pain, impacting daily activities and mobility.

Side Effects of Calcified Fibroids

Along with symptoms, the presence of calcified fibroids can lead to various side effects, including:

• Increased menstrual cramping
• Abnormal menstrual bleeding patterns
• Anemia due to excessive blood loss
• Pressure on surrounding organs, such as the bladder or bowel, leading to urinary or bowel symptoms

Are Calcified Uterine Fibroids Dangerous?

Not necessarily. While calcified uterine fibroids are typically benign and non-cancerous, they can sometimes cause complications such as severe pain, excessive bleeding, or compression of nearby organs.

In rare cases, calcified fibroids may undergo malignant transformation, although this occurrence is exceedingly rare.

Do Calcified Fibroids Go Away on Their Own?

No, calcified fibroids do not typically resolve on their own. However, some women may experience a reduction in symptoms over time, especially after menopause, when hormonal fluctuations cease, and fibroids may shrink naturally.

For symptomatic relief or if complications arise, medical intervention, such as uterine fibroid embolization, is recommended.

Calcified Fibroid Treatment

One highly effective treatment for calcified fibroids is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), a minimally invasive procedure that offers significant symptom relief and fibroid shrinkage without surgery.

During UFE, a specially trained interventional radiologist inserts a small catheter into the arteries supplying blood to the fibroids. Tiny particles are then injected through the catheter, blocking the blood flow to the fibroids and causing them to shrink over time.

UFE in Atlanta is particularly advantageous for patients seeking a non-surgical alternative to traditional fibroid treatments. UFE also preserves the uterus, making it an attractive option for women who wish to retain their fertility or avoid hysterectomy.

Other treatment options include:

• Medications to manage symptoms such as pain or heavy bleeding
• Hormonal therapies to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce fibroid size
• Magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound surgery (MRgFUS) to shrink or destroy fibroids
• Surgical interventions such as myomectomy or hysterectomy to remove fibroids or the entire uterus in severe and rare cases.

Get Treatment for Calcified Fibroids in Georgia

If you're experiencing symptoms of calcified uterine fibroids or have concerns about your pelvic health, seeking prompt medical evaluation and treatment is essential.

At Georgia Fibroids, our experienced team of fibroid doctors in Atlanta specializes in the diagnosis and management of fibroid-related conditions, including calcified fibroids.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore personalized treatment options tailored to your needs and preferences.