Fibroids are a common thing in the recent past. Although they are benign and some might not cause symptoms, pain, menstrual issues, and discomfort are possible. Specialists like Andrew Doe MD recommend medical care when fibroids significantly affect the quality of your life. Though medication can be used to manage fibroid-related symptoms or shrink the fibroids, sometimes surgery is the best option to deal with the situation. Several minimally invasive surgical options can be employed to remove the fibroids and permanently eliminate the problem. The right procedure for you depends on your unique experience. See the procedures below.
Uterine Artery Embolization
It is a minimally invasive procedure done on an outpatient basis to shrink and decrease the fibroids. It involves complicating the arteries that supply blood to your uterus by injecting some embolic agents. Cutting the blood flow to the fibroids makes them shrink and eventually die off. It is a good option for very painful fibroids. However, it is necessary to consider this option after you are done with conception. Your reproductive organs can be compromised, although in rare cases.
Myomectomy
It is one of the extremely effective fibroids treatments, especially for those not done with childbearing. A myomectomy can remove fibroids and preserve your ability to become pregnant. The treatment can be delivered in three different ways depending o the location and size of your fibroids. Your doctor can recommend a hysterectomy or myomectomy for fibroids inside your uterus by inserting special instruments through the vagina. They can also recommend laparoscopic myomectomy to remove fibroids through small incisions on the abdomen. Also, an abdominal myomectomy can be recommended to remove the fibroids through a small incision in your lower abdomen.
Myolysis
It is a laparoscopic procedure that promotes faster recovery. Your doctor inserts a needle into the fibroids and destroys them through freezing or electric current. The blood vessels connected to the fibroids are frozen to cut the blood supply. Your doctor can employ a laparoscopic technique involving an incision or a hysteroscopic technique involving vaginal insertion, depending on where the fibroids are located. Understand that your uterus might take some time to recover, and only go for the alternative if you are not planning to become pregnant soon.
Endometrial Ablation
Your doctor can opt to destroy the lining of your uterus using electricity or heat. Your provider inserts special instruments into your uterus to release the energy. The treatment can temporarily reduce or permanently stop your periods. Therefore, choose this option when you are done with pregnancy. The treatment leaves you with few chances of conceiving and increases your chances of complications should you get pregnant.
Hysterectomy
It is a major procedure that involves the removal of your uterus. It is also the only permanent way to get rid of fibroids completely. A hysterectomy can be best for you if you are close to menopause and you are done conceiving. The procedure can be done in three different ways. Your doctor can perform a subtotal hysterectomy only to remove the upper part of your uterus. They can also recommend a total hysterectomy to remove the entire uterus. In some situations, a radical hysterectomy is necessary and involves the removal of the entire uterus and some tissues in your cervix and vagina.
Fibroids can be painful and distracting to your life. The best part is that you can effectively manage the situation with the right treatment. Get in touch with the Alate Health fibroids specialists to understand the treatment options.
