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Conventional Treatment Options For Fibroids That Work?

July 5, 2023

In this post, we will explore the main points of conventional treatment options for fibroids, including medications, minimally invasive procedures, and surgical options.

Doctor in a white coat holding a case folder discussing conventional treatment options for fibroids

Exploring the Options

When it comes to treating fibroids, several options are available depending on the severity of symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, and the patient’s circumstances.

Let’s discuss the main treatment options.

Medications

Medications can help manage the symptoms associated with fibroids, but they cannot eliminate the fibroids themselves. Here are some medications we commonly prescribe:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help relieve pain and reduce menstrual bleeding.

Hormonal birth control: Certain hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, patches, or intrauterine devices (IUDs), can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce heavy bleeding.

GnRH agonists: These medications temporarily shrink fibroids by reducing estrogen and progesterone levels in the body. Doctors use it for a short period before surgery to make the procedure more manageable.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

Minimally invasive procedures aim to remove or shrink fibroids while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. Here are two common minimally invasive procedures:

Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE): This procedure involves blocking the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink. It is performed by an interventional radiologist and does not require surgery.

Magnetic Resonance-guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery (MRgFUS): This noninvasive procedure uses high-intensity ultrasound waves to destroy fibroids while leaving surrounding tissues unharmed.

Surgery

Surgical intervention may be necessary in some cases, especially for larger or more symptomatic fibroids. Here are the main surgical options:

Myomectomy: This procedure involves surgically removing fibroids while preserving the uterus. It is an option for women who wish to preserve fertility.

Hysterectomy: This surgical procedure involves removing the uterus. It is a definitive solution for fibroids but is typically for women who have completed their childbearing or have severe symptoms.

Each conventional treatment option for fibroids has its benefits and considerations, and the choice depends on individual circumstances. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment approach for you.

Key Takeaways

To recap, fibroids can be treated with medications to manage symptoms, minimally invasive procedures to remove or shrink fibroids, or surgical options such as myomectomy or hysterectomy.

The choice of treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and individual circumstances.

Hopefully, this video has provided you with valuable information about the conventional treatment options for fibroids.

Remember, discussing your symptoms and concerns with a healthcare professional is crucial in determining the best treatment approach for you.

More Reading

Editing by AskAwayHealth Team

Disclaimer

All AskAwayHealth articles are written by practising  Medical Practitioners to help promote quality healthcare. The advice in our material is not meant to replace a qualified healthcare practitioner’s management of your specific condition.
Please get in touch with a health practitioner to discuss your condition, or reach us directly here.

Image Credits: Canva

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