Fibroids, also calledmyomas, are benign (noncancerous) tumors of theuterus.
The exact cause of fibroids is unknown; however, certain hormones can contribute to their formation.
Medications, surgical procedures, and lifestyle changes can help eliminate or alleviate fibroids.
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This article will discuss current treatment options for uterine fibroids.
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Fibroids are more common inBlack peoplethan White people and people between 30 and 50 years old.
Fibroids typically resolve after menopause.
However, one study showed that oral contraceptives are safe for managing fibroid symptoms.
The low cost and few side effects of the pill make it a popular choice for treating fibroids.
TheDepo-Proverainjection is an example of a progestin that alleviates symptoms.
Progestins are usually tolerated well by most people.
GnRHa also decreases the size of fibroids.
SPRMs can cause changes to the uterus lining, but these alterations do not increase the risk foruterine cancer.
In addition, there are several medical procedures available to reduce the number and size of fibroids.
Myomectomy
Surgically removing the fibroids while saving the healthy uterine tissue is called amyomectomy.
This surgery is a beneficial option for people who wish to become pregnant later.
It can be donelaparoscopically(minimally invasive surgery) or as open surgery.
Unfortunately, new fibroids can form after a myomectomy.
Hysterectomy
Complete removal of the uterus, called ahysterectomy, is the only cure for fibroids.
Theovariesandfallopian tubesmay or may not be removed, and recovery can take several weeks.
Endometrial Ablation
Endometrialablationcontrols or stops heavy bleeding by destroying the uterine lining.
This procedure is done in the healthcare provider’s office, and recovery is usually quick.
Pregnancy is not achievable after this procedure.
Over weeks to months, the fibroids shrink.
New fibroids may grow after the procedure.
Pregnancy is not advisable after this procedure.
AnMRIscanner identifies the fibroids and then sends concentrated ultrasound waves through the skin to destroy them.
This procedure is relatively new and may not be available or approved by insurance.
More research is needed to determine the long-term effects of this procedure.
Exercise:Fibroids are more common inoverweightpeople, so maintaining a healthy weight reduces fibroid formation.
Environmental contaminants:Any environmental pollutant that affects estrogen and progesterone has the potential to increase fibroid formation.
Always check with your healthcare provider before starting alternative methods to treat uterine fibroids.
Fibroids During Pregnancy
It’s essential to eliminate or reduce fibroids before pregnancy.
Bed rest is not recommended.
Other medications can be prescribed during pregnancy to help with the discomfort or pain from fibroids.
Your healthcare provider will evaluate the size and number of fibroids often during pregnancy.
Summary
Fibroids (myomas)are benign, smooth muscle tumors of the uterus.
Although the exact cause of fibroids is unknown, scientists confirm they are affected by estrogen and progesterone.
Treatment for fibroids includes medications that influence hormonal balance and decrease heavy menstruation.
Several surgeries and medical procedures are available to reduce the number and volume of fibroids should symptoms become severe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Calcified fibroidsare treated based on the symptoms they are causing.
There are minimally invasive surgeries available to remove calcified fibroids.
It’s best to eliminate or decrease the number of fibroids before becoming pregnant.
Surgery is not recommended during pregnancy.
See your healthcare provider for foul-smelling, bloody discharge.
This is a sign of infection.
There is a lack of scientific evidence showing that essential oils effectively reduce or eliminate fibroids.
Although popular, apple cider vinegar has not been proven to effectively treat fibroids.
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