Did you know that one in four women is living with uterine fibroids and yet they have no idea? You may have noticed that your weight is increasing rapidly or your belly is increasing in size. Seeing an Upper East Side uterine fibroids specialist is the best bet you have at verifying the veracity of your worries. For example, a specialist such as Dr. Gregory Shifrin, OB/GYN PC, can examine your uterus by performing a pelvic exam to detect any abnormal changes that can indicate the possibility of you having fibroids. Other tests that the team may want to conduct include:
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Sonogram
While a pelvic exam is needed as a primary procedure to determine uterine fibroids’ presence, they might not be effective unless an ultrasound is conducted. It involves sound waves that produce an image of your uterus. Upon detecting fibroids’ presence, it will show which specific place they are located and their sizes. You are only required to lie on the bed while a doctor places and moves a device over your abdomen. Alternatively, the machine might be inserted into your vagina to provide a clear picture of your uterus.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Sometimes, an ultrasound might not reveal crisp images that are worth triggering a diagnostic response. So your doctor may resort to an MRI to determine what type of tumor is found in your uterus. This procedure works by injecting a specific dye through an IV in your arm. All you need is to lie facing up and your doctor will run a device on your abdomen for about one hour. If the sound of the device makes you uncomfortable, find a way of blocking it.
Hysterosonography
This type of test works by filling the uterine cavity with saline to magnify its size. This not only helps your doctor to get a clear picture of the presence of fibroids in your uterus but also magnifies other areas that a sonogram or MRI test may not reveal.
When going for this type of test, it is crucial to inform your doctor when you expect your menstrual periods to schedule the appointment a week after. If you are battling with menstrual cramps, tell your doctor about it. And if you are worried about going back to your daily life after the procedure, let your doctor know about it. It is important to avoid sex or wear tampons for a few days to prevent infection risk.
See your gynecologist for a uterine fibroids test
Whether you are having severe pelvic pain or are having heavy menstrual periods, it is vital to see a gynecologist. The fact that there are no noticeable symptoms is a clear indication that the condition affects more women. Do not wait until the tumors develop into more complicated conditions. Make a point of having regular gynecological checkups for your peace of mind. To learn more about uterine fibroids, the causes, and treatment options, schedule an online consultation today with your gynecologist.