How to Diagnose Uterine Fibroids

A fibroid tumor is caused by an abnormal growth of cells inside the uterus. These cells are almost always non-cancerous. Approximately 25 percent of all women over the age of 35 have fibroids. An annual gynecological exam is the best means of detection.

Instructions

• 1

  Assess your menstrual flow. If your periods are heavier than usual, you're bleeding between periods or after intercourse, or you begin bleeding after menopause, you may have a fibroid.

• 2

  Consider whether you're having difficulty becoming pregnant. Fibroids are a common cause of infertility.

• 3

  Check yourself for abdominal swelling. Lay on the bed and with your fingertips feel for any lumps or bulges around or above your uterus.

• 4

  Have a pelvic examination. A competent gynecologist can usually detect abnormalities in your uterus through palpation. If your doctor feels something out of the ordinary, she'll likely order additional tests.

• 5

  Consent to an ultrasound. Used to evaluate fetuses during pregnancy, ultrasound can also diagnose pelvic masses. In many cases, ultrasounds have replaced X-rays because they release no dangerous radiation.

• 6

  Consider a hysterosalpingogram, an X-ray of the uterus, obtained by injecting dye into the uterus. This test is helpful in diagnosing a submucous fibroid.

• 7

  Evaluate the need for a laparoscopy. This test may be necessary to determine if your tumor is located in your ovary or uterus.

• 8

  Know that in a laparoscopy, a periscope-type instrument is inserted through your naval, allowing your doctor a direct view of your uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.

• 9

  Consent to a hysteroscopy or a D&C. These procedures permit your doctor to examine the inside of your uterus using a spoon-like instrument.