An ovarian fibroma is a growth or tumor that appears near a woman's ovaries and is typically benign (not cancerous). Most instances of ovarian fibroma develop gradually and have no symptoms. In many cases, a benign ovarian fibroma does not cause the patient any trouble and may not require fibroid treatment.
Symptoms of ovarian fibroma
The most common symptom of an ovarian fibroma is abdominal pain, which may result if the fibroma is causing tension by twisting and turning the ovaries. Less common symptoms include:
- Menstrual irregularities or post-menopausal bleeding
- Peritonitis and shock, in the case of a ruptured cyst
- Pressure on the bladder, causing the patient to need to urinate frequently
- A swollen abdomen
- Pain during or after sexual intercourse
Diagnosis of an ovarian fibroma is usually made through an ultrasound exam.
Treatment for ovarian fibroma
Depending on the size of the fibroma and the presence of symptoms, physicians may recommend treatments that include:
- Watching and waiting. When the ovarian fibroma is small and no symptoms are present, physicians may recommend doing nothing more than keeping a watchful eye on the fibroma.
- Surgery. For larger cysts or for a fibroma that continues to grow or is causing torsion, physicians may recommend removal. Most ovarian fibroma can be removed through laparoscopic surgery, in which surgeons use a camera and instruments in thin tubes that are inserted through tiny incisions in the abdomen to observe and remove a fibroma. As a minimally invasive procedure, laparoscopic surgery generally involves less pain and bleeding, reduced risk of infection, a shorter hospital stay and faster recovery time.
Care of ovarian fibroma at BWH
Women requiring diagnosis and treatment of an ovarian fibroma can find innovative and compassionate care in the Division of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery (MIGS) at Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH). TMIGS physicians provide comprehensive care for women with ovarian fibromas, uterine fibroids, abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, endometriosis, pelvic organ prolapsed, cervical incompetence, and ovarian cysts – offering the latest minimally invasive options for these conditions.
In addition to treatment for ovarian fibroma, patients can consult with MIGS physicians about endometriosis symptoms and endometriosis treatment, about a myomectomy for uterine fibroma or uterine polyps, and receive treatment for infertility and genetic reproductive disorders.
Learn more about Ovarian Fibromas at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
