Uterine Fibroids Specialist

Jamie E. Kim, MD, FACOG

OB/GYN located in Fountain Valley, CA

Almost every woman at some point in her life will develop a uterine fibroid, which is a noncancerous tumor that grows in the uterus. Jamie Kim, MD, FACOG, is a women’s health expert who provides the most advanced treatment options for uterine fibroids. If you live in or near Fountain Valley, California, and have concerns about a fibroid, call the office, or schedule a consultation using the online booking button.

Uterine Fibroids Q & A

What are uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids, also knowns as myomas, are growths found in the uterus in women of childbearing age. They’re quite common and can vary in size from as small as a pinhead to as large as a softball, and you may have one or many.

Researchers are still investigating the reason why women grow these noncancerous tumors but theorize genetics and hormones may be involved.

How do I know if I have a fibroid?

Because most women don’t experience any abnormal symptoms with fibroids, you may not know you have one until it’s discovered during your routine gynecological exam.

Common symptoms include:

  • Pelvic pain or leg pain
  • Increase in abdominal girth
  • Heavy menstrual flow
  • Constipation or frequent urination

Symptoms vary depending on the location of your fibroid and its size. If you’re experiencing changes in your menstruation or back pain, call Dr. Kim for an evaluation.

How are uterine fibroids treated?

Treatment of fibroids depends on a number of factors, including the severity of your symptoms, your future pregnancy plans, and the size of your fibroid. If your fibroid isn’t bothering you, Dr. Kim may suggest just monitoring it.

She may also suggest medications to help shrink the tumor or alleviate some of your symptoms. If the conservative methods fail to improve your symptoms, Dr. Kim can remove your fibroid using robotic surgery.

What is robotic surgery?

Robotic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical method that uses a specialized, robotic tool to minimize incisions and improve surgical precision. During the procedure, Dr. Kim first makes a small incision and inserts a camera into your pelvic area. Then, with a special hand controller, she uses tiny surgical instruments attached to robotic arms to remove your fibroid, using the images created by the camera as a guide.

The benefits of robotic surgery for removal of your fibroid include:

  • Faster recovery
  • Less blood loss
  • Reduced risk of infection
  • Fewer complications
  • Shorter hospital stay

Although Dr. Kim prefers robotic surgery for fibroid removal, not everyone is a candidate for this type of procedure. Dr. Kim will determine the best treatment method for your fibroid based on your health, age, and prior surgical history.

For the management and removal of your fibroids, call Dr. Kim’s office, or schedule an appointment using the online booking button.