Episode 37: Understanding Fibroids with Cheruba Prabakar, MD

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Gynarchy Podcast, we talk with board-certified OB/GYN and minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon Dr. Cheruba Prabhakar about fibroids, one of the most common conditions affecting women. We cover what fibroids are, how they present, and why so many women go undiagnosed for years despite significant symptoms.Dr. Prabhakar shares her expertise in fertility-sparing fibroid surgery and explains how fibroids can impact bleeding, pain, and reproductive health. We discuss how fibroids are diagnosed, when treatment is necessary, and the full range of options—from watchful waiting and medical management to minimally invasive surgical approaches. She also breaks down the differences between hysteroscopic, laparoscopic, and open procedures, including recovery times and risks.Topics we cover in this episode:What fibroids are and how common they areWhy many women normalize heavy or painful periodsCommon symptoms of fibroids, including heavy bleeding, bulk symptoms, and infertilityHow fibroids are diagnosed with pelvic exams and ultrasoundWhen MRI is used for further evaluation and surgical planningHow fibroids can impact fertility and pregnancy outcomesThe relationship between fibroids and endometriosisWhen it is appropriate to monitor fibroids without treatmentMedical management options, including hormonal therapies and newer medicationsMinimally invasive gynecologic surgery: what it is and how it differs from open surgeryRobotic and laparoscopic myomectomy and hysterectomyHysteroscopic fibroid removal for intracavitary fibroidsUterine artery embolization: what it is and when it may be appropriateRisks and benefits of different surgical approachesRecovery timelines for hysteroscopic, laparoscopic, and open proceduresFibroid recurrence rates and the role of geneticsLifestyle factors that may help reduce fibroid growth, including diet and vitamin DAdenomyosis: what it is and how it differs from fibroidsWhy many women feel dismissed and the importance of self-advocacy in careTune in on Monday, April 20, and make sure to subscribe and stay updated on all of our episodes.Connect with Dr. Cheruba Prabhakar:Website: https://www.lamorindagyn.comInstagram, TikTok, YouTube: @‌thefibroiddoc___ The Gynarchy Podcast is available now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other platforms.Follow Us for Updates:‌Bluesky: @‌thegynarchyInstagram: @‌thegynarchyTikTok: @‌thegynarchy YouTube: @‌thegynarchyNewsletter sign upWebsite: www.thegynarchypodcast.comEarn FREE CE/CME credit for listening to our episodes by joining the Learn at Pinnacle app:Free CE/CME App for Healthcare Professionals | Learn at Pinnacle______Disclaimer: This podcast and related content are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical, financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not their employers, and are not tailored to individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions. By using this content, you agree the creators are not liable for any outcomes or damages resulting from reliance on it.ISupport the showThe Gynarchy Podcast is available now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other platforms. Follow Us for Updates:‌Bluesky: @thegynarchy Instagram: @thegynarchyTikTok: @thegynarchy YouTube: @thegynarchyNewsletter sign upWebsite: www.thegynarchypodcast.com‌Earn FREE CE/CME credit for listening to our episodes by joining the Learn at Pinnacle app:https://learnatpinnacle.com/education______Disclaimer: This podcast and related content are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical, financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not their employers, and are not tailored to individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions. By using this content, you agree the creators are not liable for any outcomes or damages resulting from reliance on it.Inclusivity statement:  The Gynarchy is cr...