Uterine fibroids (leiomyoma)

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in the muscle of the uterus. Also known as leiomyomas, they often appear without a known cause. Many people live with fibroids without symptoms, while others experience discomfort that leads them to seek treatment.

Fibroids impact roughly 50% of all women and tend to run in families. African American women are at a higher risk for developing fibroids, with up to 80% of the population being affected by age 50.

If you’re experiencing pain, heavy bleeding, or other symptoms, know that effective treatment options are available. At Aurora Sinai Medical Center, we offer a range of minimally invasive treatments tailored to your needs – from medication to advanced surgical procedures.

Uterine fibroid symptoms 

Many people with fibroids don’t experience symptoms. However, if you do, they may include: 

• Pelvic pain or pressure 
• Painful or heavy periods 
• Difficulty getting pregnant 
• Risk of preterm delivery 

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, we encourage you to schedule an appointment. 

How fibroids are diagnosed 

Diagnosis typically begins with a discussion of your symptoms and a pelvic ultrasound. Your doctor may also recommend lab tests or a biopsy to rule out other conditions, including cancer. 

If treatment is needed, you may be referred to a fibroid specialist or to the Aurora Fibroid Center at Aurora Sinai Medical Center in Milwaukee. 

Treatment options for fibroids  

In the past, fibroid treatment often meant a full abdominal hysterectomy. Today, we offer a variety of less invasive options, including: 

• Medications (hormonal and nonhormonal)
• Uterine artery embolization (UAE): Blocks blood flow to fibroids
• Hysteroscopic myomectomy: Removes fibroids using a camera inserted through the cervix – no incisions needed
• Laparoscopic myomectomy: Removes fibroids through small abdominal incisions using a camera-guided tool
• Minimally invasive hysterectomy: Removes all or part of the uterus through small incisions
• Hysteroscopic radiofrequency ablation (Sonata): Shrinks fibroids from inside the uterus without abdominal incisions; most patients return to normal activity in 1-3 days. Learn more about Sonata
• Laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation (Acessa): Uses small incisions and ultrasound guidance to shrink fibroids; most patients return to normal activity in 3-7 days. Learn more about Acessa

Located inside the Academic Specialists of Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic at Aurora Sinai Medical Center, the Aurora Fibroid Clinic offers targeted fibroid treatment for women of all ages. Our fibroid specialists work with your physician and other health care professionals to provide personalized treatment options based on your symptoms, health and life. 

When you visit our fibroid clinic, we’ll discuss your symptoms and make sure you’ve had a recent ultrasound. We may also recommend doing a biopsy to rule out other causes of your symptoms and to check for the presence of cancer. 

No referral is necessary to make an appointment at the fibroid clinic. Call 414-219-5759 to set up an initial consultation today. 

Aurora Fibroid Clinic at Academic Specialists in Obstetrics and Gynecology
945 N. 12th St.
Ste. 101
Milwaukee, WI 53233
414-219-5759