Treatments of Myomas

Yes. Medications can control bleeding and pain, and sometimes may temporarily shrink fibroids. Non-surgical methods such as uterine artery embolization, radiofrequency ablation, and MR-guided focused ultrasound can also be used as alternatives to hysterectomy.

Fibroids usually shrink after menopause. Before menopause, most fibroids continue to grow unless treated.

GnRH agonists or antagonists can rapidly shrink fibroids, but their effects are temporary, and side effects limit their long-term use. They are generally used before surgery to gain time during the anaemia replacement process and to facilitate the operation.

Levonorgestrel intrauterine devices, combined hormonal birth control pills, oral or injectable progesterones, tranexamic acid for heavy days, and NSAIDs for cramps can be used. Dosage and combinations are tailored to the individual patient.

Uterine artery embolisation (UAE or UFE) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat various uterine disorders by blocking the blood vessels in cases of different pathologies causing bleeding in the uterus. It is commonly used to treat fibroids or uterine bleeding problems.

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a method that destroys abnormal tissue or cells in the body by heating them with high-frequency electrical currents. Radiofrequency energy is typically applied to fibroids by placing a needle through a transvaginal ultrasound probe and delivering heat energy to the fibroids within the uterine body. This causes the fibroids to shrink and reduces bleeding. The recovery process is usually quick.

MRI-guided focused ultrasound is a non-invasive treatment method that uses MRI combined with focused ultrasound to treat tissues in specific body areas by heating them. The fibroid tissue is heated and destroyed using MR-guided focused ultrasound. However, not every fibroid location may be suitable for this method.

This procedure involves the surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus. The methods used are hysteroscopic for submucosal fibroids, laparoscopic for many intramural or subserosal fibroids, and open surgery when necessary. Fertility can be preserved, but new fibroids may develop in the future. In addition, early complications such as bleeding and infection associated with the surgical procedure may occur. In the long term, there is a risk of endometrial adhesions developing.

This method involves the complete removal of the uterus. It provides a definitive solution for fibroids and bleeding, but it ends fertility.

Situations where surgery should be considered include persistent heavy bleeding leading to anemia, severe pain or pressure, infertility or miscarriage due to disruption of the uterine cavity, rapid growth after menopause, or suspicious imaging findings.

There is no single size limit. Location and symptoms are more important. Submucosal or cavity-distorting intramural fibroids are treated more frequently, even if small.

Hysteroscopic myomectomy or cervical RFA usually takes a few days. Laparoscopic surgery requires 2-4 weeks of recovery, while open abdominal surgery requires 4-6 weeks.

If abdominal fullness is caused by large fibroids, removing the fibroids can make the abdominal area appear and feel flatter.

There is no definitive method. Hormone treatments that suppress ovarian function can slow growth and control symptoms. Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and controlling blood pressure support overall health.

No vitamin or special diet has been proven to shrink fibroids. Low vitamin D may be a risk factor, but it has not been proven to shrink existing fibroids. You should consult your doctor before taking supplements.

Exercise doesn’t shrink fibroids but can reduce cramping, increase energy expenditure, and aid in weight control.

No drink or detox can eliminate fibroids. Adequate water consumption is beneficial for overall health.

If left untreated, anemia due to excessive bleeding, chronic pain, bladder or bowel pressure, urinary or bowel problems, and fertility issues in some patients may occur.

New fibroids may develop after myomectomy. They don’t recur after a hysterectomy, because the uterus has been removed.

Most patients can become pregnant after the uterine cavity has healed following myomectomy. The timing of trying to conceive is determined individually, usually several months after recovery. Discuss risks and birth planning with your doctor. Fertility outcomes after UFE vary.

Treatment during pregnancy is usually conservative. For pain, the specialist ususally recommends pain killer medications. The specialist may opt for surgery in rare cases of complications like myoma torsion.

Myomectomy, UFE, RFA, and HIFU are options that preserve the uterus. Suitability depends on the fibroid map and your goals.

Pain varies depending on the method and individual factors. Open abdominal myomectomy requires recovery similar to other open abdominal surgeries. Laparoscopic and hysteroscopic procedures generally cause less pain and allow for faster recovery.

Possible risks include bleeding, infection, damage to nearby organs, and the need for additional procedures. Post-embolization pain and fever may occur for a few days after UFE. The specialist will assess the risks based on your specific situation.

When deciding between treatment options for fibroids, factors such as the severity of your symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, your age, your desire to become pregnant, and your overall health are essential. In addition, consulting with our specialist to evaluate the advantages and risks of each method is the safest way to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you.