Healthy solutions for Cypress women: Do you need a hysterectomy for fibroids?

Fibroids at Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine in Cypress Area

About one in three American women will experience some kind of pelvic disorder by the age of 60. Every year, over half a million of those women undergo hysterectomies. In the past, there were few treatment options, and removing the problematic organ was viewed as a good solution to many problems. However, thanks to modern technology and advances in medical science, we have more conservative, customized healthcare solutions. While hysterectomies are necessary in some circumstances, they can often be avoided.

Fibroids are among the most common reasons why hysterectomies are performed. Fibroids are tumors that form on the smooth uterine walls. They are usually benign (non-cancerous), and sometimes asymptomatic. However, depending on the size, location, and number of fibroids, they can cause pain, bleeding, and possibly infertility.

Treatment options for fibroids include:

Watchful waiting – If you do not have any symptoms, treatment may be unnecessary. However, the situation should be monitored closely.
Myomectomy – Surgically removes only the fibroids. When performed using laparoscopic surgery, there is minimal discomfort or downtime.
Uterine artery embolization – This minimally invasive procedure is the same technique used to relieve hemorrhaging. The uterine arteries are injected with small particles, reducing the blood flow to the fibroids. About 85 to 90 percent of women notice a reduction of symptoms following this procedure.
Medications – If you have painful symptoms, but you wish to avoid surgery or other medical procedures, the condition may be managed with medication. In some cases, NSAIDS are sufficient to manage the pain and discomfort. (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). If that treatment is ineffective, certain drugs that block hormone production may bring relief. However, they have potential side effects such as premature menopause.
Laparoscopic hysterectomy – Sometimes a hysterectomy is unavoidable. This technique is less invasive and less painful than the traditional method.

Call our office

New patients please call:
855-346-8610

Existing patients please call:
281-347-2600

Virtual Consultation

If you are concerned about fibroids, call our office and schedule an appointment. Dr. Jenkins believes in conservative treatment, avoiding surgery when possible. He will discuss your available options, including the side effects, benefits, and potential risks. When surgery is necessary, he uses the latest laparoscopic technology for a minimally invasive procedure and faster recovery time.

Call our Katy, TX office at 855-346-8610 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Jenkins today.

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Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Medicine
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We offer general care, gynecology, and obstetrics services that span all stages of a woman's life. Dr. Taryll L. Jenkins, MD received his undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University and Doctorate of Medicine from Meharry Medical College School of Medicine, TN. He completed his residency training at the University of Texas and Hermann Hospital, TX and is Board-certified from the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, with years of research experience.

Having graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with a Bachelors of Science in Biological Chemistry in 2011, Dr. Stephanie Roy received her Doctor of Medicine Degree in 2015 from the University of Texas Medical Branch. Today she is a leading Board-certified physician who works hard to provide you and your family with high quality services. In addition to spending time at the practice, Dr. Roy possesses extensive volunteer experience in the community. She was also a tutor at the Medical Careers Diversity Program in 2012 and since then has spent her free time volunteering for the St. Vincent’s Clinic.

Dr. Tiffany Ikwuagwu is passionate about caring for the diverse communities in Katy and Houston, TX. Having completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Houston, her medical degree at the Baylor College of Medicine, and her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the McGovern Medical School, she worked as principal investigator on a research project with Dr. Nana Ankumah at UT Houston. A member of the American Medical Association, Texas Medical Association, and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Dr. Ikwuagwu has served in several leadership roles and has made many contributions to the community.

Yara Ramirez, MD earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Baylor University and her doctorate in medicine from the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston where she also completed her residency. She won the Resident Teaching Award from UTMB’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology for two consecutive years.
Dr. Ramirez has researched extensively on many obstetrics-related topics. She has been a Junior Fellow Representative for the UTMB Residency Program and a Medical Student Education Committee Member at the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She has volunteered for various local and foreign community programs. Her fluency in Spanish and French is an asset to her organization.

Nadia Alexander is a Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center. With seven years of experience in women’s health and a focus on obstetrics and ambulatory gynecology (vaginitis, UTI, and vaginal bleeding), she provides quality, compassionate care to patients in various stages of reproductive life. She is fluent in English and Spanish and is the lead contact for our Telehealth service.