What are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are also known as leiomyomas. It is a benign tumor which can develop in or around the uterus. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, there are only 1 out of 1000 fibroids which can develop cancer, which is very rare. Usually they are asymptomatic, but sometimes they may cause symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, lower abdomen or pelvic pain, frequent urination and pain during intercourse etc. There are various Uterine Fibroids treatments available such as medications, minimally invasive procedures, hysterectomy, Uterine fibroid embolization etc.

If you suspect or are experiencing the symptoms of uterine fibroids, it is better to consult an experienced gynecologist to get the best uterine fibroids treatment.

How to Check for Fibroids at Home?

According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, uterine fibroids affect 20-80% of women by age 50. There are a number of signs and symptoms which may indicate that you may be suffering from uterine fibroids. It includes:

Heavy menstrual bleeding
Enlargement of lower abdomen
Pain during intercourse
Constipation
Lower back pain
Complications during pregnancy

Above mentioned are the symptoms which indicate the presence of uterine fibroids. There’s no other way to check for fibroids at home.

Diagnostic Tests for Uterine Fibroids

There are various treatments available for uterine fibroids. Before proceeding with any procedure, the doctor may suggest some diagnostic tests to evaluate the condition properly. Commonly performed diagnostic tests include:

Ultrasonography

Ultrasonography, a non-invasive imaging test, is commonly used to detect and evaluate uterine fibroids. High-frequency sound waves create detailed images of the uterus, aiding in diagnosis by revealing the size, location, and characteristics of fibroids, assisting in treatment decisions.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive imaging test used to visualize and assess uterine fibroids. It provides detailed, high-resolution images of the uterus, helping healthcare professionals accurately diagnose, locate, and plan appropriate uterine fibroids treatment.

Computed tomography (CT) scan

A CT scan for uterine fibroids is a diagnostic imaging test that utilizes X-rays and computer technology to create detailed cross-sectional images of the pelvis. It helps assess the size, location, and characteristics of fibroids, aiding in diagnosis and uterine fibroids treatment planning.

Sonohysterography

Sonohysterography is a diagnostic procedure where ultrasound imaging is used alongside saline injection into the uterus, enhancing visualization of the uterine cavity. It helps identify and assess uterine fibroids, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning for individuals experiencing symptoms or fertility concerns.

Uterine Fibroids Treatment

Uterine Fibroids treatment majorly depends on the size, location, number and symptoms of uterine fibroids. If you are not experiencing any symptoms, you may not require any treatment, on the other hand if you are experiencing major symptoms such as pain during intercourse, heavy bleeding during periods which may last longer than usual, pain in lower abdomen and pelvic area, fullness or pressure in your lower belly etc.

Watchful waiting

If the uterine fibroids are asymptomatic, then watchful waiting is the best option. Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous, they usually never interfere with the pregnancy. Also, they grow very slow and may shrink after menopause.

Medications

GnRH agonists: GnRH agonists are medications used to treat fibroids by inhibiting the production of estrogen and progesterone hormones in the body. This leads to a state to menopause, resulting in the cessation of menstrual periods, reduction in fibroid size and improvement in anemia.

Example: leuprolide (Lupron Depot, Eligard among others) goserelin (Zoladex) and triptorelin (Trelstar, Triptodur Kit).

GnRH antagonists: GnRH antagonists are another type of medication that can effectively manage bleeding associated with uterine fibroids in individuals who have not yet reached menopause. However it's important to note that these medications do not shrink fibroids. GnRH antagonists can be used for a duration of up to two years.

Example: Elagolix (Oriahnn) and relugolix (Myfembree) are examples of this type of medication.

IUD: Another option is a progestin releasing device (IUD) which can alleviate bleeding caused by fibroids. However it's important to note that the IUD only relieves symptoms and does not shrink or eliminate the fibroids.

There are some other medications you can take but they can reduce the symptoms but won’t shrink them. Medicines are the fibroid removal without surgery. It includes:

Contraceptive pills: Your doctor may suggest you birth control pills to control heavy bleeding during the periods.
Elagolix: It is a recently developed oral treatment for uterine fibroids, especially those who haven't gone through menopause yet. You can take it for a duration of up to 24 months.

Minimally invasive procedures

There are various minimally invasive procedures for fibroids removal. Not only the size, number of fibroids, location but your future planning for pregnancies is also an important factor while opting for uterine fibroids surgery.

Myomectomy

This is a procedure which allows the doctor to remove the uterine fibroids. There are 3 types of myomectomy. The type of myomectomy is chosen based on where the fibroids are located, number and size of fibroids. This procedure is good for small uterine fibroid treatment. Types of myomectomy includes:

Hysteroscopy: Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure to remove uterine fibroids. In this procedure, the doctor will insert a thin tube with a camera attached to the uterus through the cervix and remove the fibroids.
Laparoscopy: Laparoscopy is also a minimally invasive (keyhole procedure), to remove uterine fibroids. In this procedure, the doctor creates a few small incisions in your abdomen and removes the fibroids.
Laparotomy: This is a traditional procedure to remove uterine fibroids. During this procedure, the doctor makes one larger incision in your abdomen and removes the fibroids through this one cut.

Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure where a woman's uterus is removed. It's a common treatment for uterine fibroids, endometriosis, or cancer. Hysterectomy is the best treatment for uterine fibroids after menopause. This uterine fibroids surgery procedure can be done through different methods, such as abdominal, vaginal, or laparoscopic approaches. Depending on the case, the entire uterus or a part of it may be removed. Hysterectomy recovery time may vary for each individual.

There are 3 different types of hysterectomy. The doctor will diagnose the condition and suggest the best option. Depending on your condition, the uterus may be fully, partially or some additional parts of the reproductive organs be removed. It is the best treatment for large uterine fibroids:

Total Hysterectomy: In this common procedure, the surgeon removes your uterus and cervix while leaving your ovaries intact.
Hysterectomy with Oophorectomy: This involves the removal of the uterus, one or both ovaries, and sometimes the fallopian tubes.
Radical Hysterectomy: For cases of cancer, the surgeon removes the uterus, cervix, top part of the vagina, surrounding tissue, and possibly pelvic lymph nodes.
Supracervical Hysterectomy: This procedure removes the uterus but preserves the cervix, often used for noncancerous conditions like fibroids or endometriosis.

Alternative Treatment for Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroid embolization

During uterine fibroid embolization, interventional radiologists and your gynecologist place a small catheter in your uterine artery or radial artery. Small particles are injected, blocking the blood flow to the fibroids. This reduction in blood flow causes the fibroids to shrink, alleviating your symptoms. Early menopause, changes in fertility, recurrence of fibroids are the long-term side effects of fibroid embolization.

It's important to note that this procedure may not be suitable for everyone.

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a medical procedure where a specialized needle is inserted into the fibroid tissue. Radiofrequency energy is then delivered through the needle, heating and destroying the fibroid cells. This minimally invasive technique aims to alleviate symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain caused by uterine fibroids. RFA is considered a safe and effective option, offering a quicker recovery compared to traditional surgical methods.

What Can One Expect After the Surgery?

The effects of the general anesthesia (drowsiness, impaired judgment) are short lasting and will disappear after a day or two. Patients will have two to four scars in different parts of the abdomen from the incisions during surgery. Some stitches and glue will dissolve by themselves, while other stitches, staples and clips will require removal at the hospital about a week after the operation.

Home Remedies for Uterine Fibroids

Everyone wants to opt for uterine fibroids natural treatment at home in order to avoid surgical procedure. Here are some most effective home remedies to shrink uterine fibroids naturally without surgery. You should try them for positive effects.

Green tea

Green tea is popularly known for its health benefits and it has some positive effects to cure uterine fibroids too. It is helpful in effectively shrinking the fibroids naturally. Green tea is considered as one of the best uterine fibroids natural treatment.

Fiber rich diet

You should increase the intake of fiber rich foods to your diet to relieve symptomatic uterine fibroids. Fiber rich foods lowers the estrogen level in the body which is one of the major causes of uterine fibroids. You should have more lentils, whole wheat bread, oats, quinoa, split beans, chia seeds, barley, apples, pears, raspberries etc in your diet.

Vitamins and supplements

Deficiency of proper vitamins and supplements can also lead to uterine fibroids. You should include vitamin B, D and E in your diet to prevent uterine fibroids and help them to shrink. Foods rich in vitamins are eggs, mushrooms, fish, cereals etc.

Avoid excess protein

You should avoid taking excessive protein rich foods as they can cause uterine fibroids. Try to cut down cheese, red meat, butter and switch to including more vitamin and fibrous foods to your diet.

Cut down on sugar

Sugar rich foods are majorly responsible for triggering or worsening the symptoms of uterine fibroids. Avoid taking added sugar rich foods such as packaged protein bars, glucose, maltose, fruit juice etc.

What are the Complications of Untreated Uterine Fibroids?

It is always better to get the condition treated on time otherwise it may lead to various severe complications such as:

Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Fibroids can cause prolonged and heavy menstrual bleeding, leading to anemia and fatigue.
Pelvic Pain and Discomfort: Increased fibroid size may result in pelvic pain and pressure, impacting daily life.
Urinary Issues: Fibroids pressing on the bladder may cause frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder.
Backache or Leg Pains: Large fibroids can exert pressure on nerves, causing back or leg pain.
Reproductive Health Challenges: Fibroids may interfere with fertility, increase pregnancy risks, or lead to complications during labor.
Degeneration or Torsion: Fibroids may undergo degeneration, causing severe pain, or torsion, cutting off their blood supply.
Impact on Quality of Life: Persistent symptoms can affect emotional well-being and quality of life.

How much is fibroid surgery with insurance?

The cost of uterine fibroids surgery may vary depending on various factors such as country, city, type of hospital chosen, type of procedure, doctor’s fee, insurance coverage and many more. Usually, uterine fibroids surgery is covered under insurance. It is recommended to consult your insurance provider to get the detailed information about your coverage, including any pre-authorization requirements, in-network providers, and potential out-of-pocket costs and the exact coverage of your uterine fibroid surgery.

Conclusion

Summing up, uterine fibroids are a common condition and there are various uterine fibroids treatments for uterine fibroids available. From medications to minimally invasive procedures and home remedies, learn about effective interventions. Early detection and tailored uterine fibroids treatment is important. Make informed decisions with professional guidance for your well-being.

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