If you’ve been diagnosed with uterine fibroids, you may be wondering what treatment option is right for you. The answer isn’t always simple.
Fibroids are extremely common, affecting up to 80% of women by age 50. While some women never experience symptoms, others may struggle with heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, pain or fertility challenges. Because every woman’s experience is different, the best treatment depends on factors such as symptom severity, the size and location of the fibroids, future pregnancy plans and overall health.
The good news is that women today have more treatment options than ever before, ranging from medication and minimally invasive procedures to advanced robotic-assisted surgery.
What are uterine fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. Also called leiomyomas or myomas, fibroids can vary significantly in size. Some are as small as a seed, while others can grow large enough to change the shape of the uterus.
Although the exact cause of fibroids isn’t fully understood, hormones such as estrogen and progesterone are believed to play a role in their growth.
Many women with fibroids never experience symptoms. However, when symptoms occur, they can have a significant impact on daily life.
What are the symptoms of uterine fibroids?
Symptoms often depend on size, number and location of the fibroids.
Common symptoms include:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pressure or fullness
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
- Pelvic pain
- Lower back pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Difficulty becoming pregnant or maintaining a pregnancy
Some women even develop anemia from heavy menstrual bleeding, which may cause fatigue, weakness or shortness of breath.
If fibroid symptoms are interfering with your quality of life, it may be time to discuss treatment options with a gynecologist.
What treatments are available for uterine fibroids?
Treatment is generally recommended when fibroids cause significant symptoms, affect fertility or continue to grow. The best treatment depends on your symptoms and personal goals.
Medications
Medications may help manage symptoms, such as heavy bleeding or painful periods. Some treatments work by regulating hormones that influence fibroid growth. While medications can help relieve symptoms, they do not permanently remove fibroids.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive procedure that blocks blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink over time. For some women, UFE can improve symptoms without requiring surgery.
Myomectomy
A myomectomy removes fibroids while preserving the uterus. This option is often considered for women who wish to maintain fertility or keep their uterus. Depending on the size and location of the fibroids, a myomectomy may be performed through minimally invasive techniques.
Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy removes the uterus and is the only treatment that completely eliminates the possibility of fibroids returning. For women who have completed childbearing and experience severe symptoms, hysterectomy may be the most effective long-term solution.
When is surgery the best treatment for fibroids?
While some women find relief with medication, those treatments typically manage symptoms rather than eliminate fibroids.
When heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure or fertility concerns continue to affect quality of life, surgery may be the most effective option.
Surgical treatment may be recommended when:
- Fibroids continue to grow
- Symptoms interfere with daily activities
- Medications are no longer helping
- Fibroids affect fertility or pregnancy
- Pelvic pressure and discomfort become difficult to manage
Unlike medications, surgical treatment can directly remove fibroids or permanently eliminate the possibility of recurrence.
When is robotic surgery used for fibroid treatment?
For women who need surgery, robotic-assisted technology has transformed the way many fibroid procedures are performed.
Robotic surgery may be used for both myomectomy and hysterectomy procedures. Using specialized instruments operated by the surgeon, robotic technology allows for enhanced precision through several small incisions rather than one larger incision. The robot does not perform the procedure independently. Instead, it serves as an advanced surgical tool that helps the surgeon operate with greater visibility and control.
For women with larger fibroids or more complex surgical needs, robotic surgery may be an excellent option.
What are the benefits of robotic surgery for fibroids?
Robotic-assisted gynecologic surgery offers several potential advantages over traditional open surgery. Some of the potential benefits include:
- Smaller incisions
- Less blood loss
- Faster recovery
- Greater precision
- Reduced pain after surgery
- Long-lasting results
Find out if robotic surgery is right for you
At Northeast Georgia Health System, women have access to comprehensive gynecologic care and advanced robotic surgical options. Our team works closely with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan focused on symptom relief, improved quality of life and long-term wellness.
If uterine fibroids are affecting your daily life, you don’t have to live with discomfort. Northeast Georgia Health System’s GYN Robotic Center offers advanced minimally invasive surgical options tailored to your needs.