Although uterine fibroids are one of the most common conditions of the female reproductive system, many women are still unaware of what they are, how to recognize fibroid signs and symptoms, what treatments are available, or what questions to ask their doctor. Here, experts at Beth Israel Lahey Health Winchester Hospital provide questions to ask your doctor about fibroids and how to optimize that conversation for your best health outcome.*

Preparing for the conversation

Prior to your doctor’s visit, they suggest, write down your symptoms, questions, and concerns, so you can get as many answers as possible. In addition, be prepared to talk about your overall health history, not just your reproductive health and habits. There are many factors, including genetics, diet, smoking, and concurrent medical conditions, that can contribute to fibroid development and symptom severity.

There’s no need to have these conversations with your doctor alone. If bringing someone along to your doctor’s visit makes you feel more comfortable, or even if you want an extra pair of ears or another perspective, feel free to do so. You might want to bring along a pen and paper for taking notes.

Some questions for your doctor

Some questions for your ob-gyn or other healthcare provider might be:

• What might be causing my symptoms?
• How can you confirm whether or not I have uterine fibroids, and that they are the cause of my symptoms?
• What factors put me at risk for developing fibroids?
• What treatments are available?
• What treatment might be best for me, given my overall health, the size(s) and location(s) of my fibroid(s), my life goals, and my family planning intentions?
• Why do you recommend that treatment, and what does it entail? 
• What are the possible risks and benefits of the recommended treatment?
• How might it affect my everyday activities, and when could I return to those activities?
• If I don’t choose a treatment, how could the fibroids impact my home life, sex life, social life, and work life?
• Are there ways to manage my symptoms that don’t involve medications, hormones, medical procedures, or surgery?
• How will I feel after treatment, and how will I know that it’s successful?
• What lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, smoking, stress management, etc.) would I need to make, if any, to support my treatment and good health? 
• What are the chances that the fibroids could return after treatment?
• What should I tell my family, friends, and colleagues about my condition and/or treatment?
• What is my prognosis?

During and after the conversation

The experts recommend taking notes or asking the person you brought along to take notes, as your doctor is answering your questions. Ask for clarification, either during the visit or in a follow-up conversation, if their initial answer is vague, full of medical jargon you don’t understand, or otherwise doesn’t satisfy you. You have a right to make informed decisions for yourself and advocate for your best possible care. 

*Siegal, B. (2022, May 10). Talking to Your Doctor About Uterine Fibroids. Beth Israel Lahey Health Winchester Hospital Health Library. https://www.winchesterhospital.org/health-library/article?id=19447