If fibroids are not causing problems, regular checkups may be the only management they need. This is called watchful waiting. The doctor examines a woman two or three times a year to see if the fibroids are growing and if they are beginning to cause problems. If the doctor cannot feel the woman's ovaries during a pelvic exam, ultrasound should be performed once a year.
Problems like those caused by fibroids can also have other causes. It is important to rule out these other possible causes of any problems a woman is having. For example, an imbalance of hormones may cause heavy periods. A bladder infection can cause a frequent need to urinate.
