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Uterine fibroids are one of the most common conditions affecting women during their reproductive years. They are noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus and can vary in size from very small nodules to larger masses. While not all fibroids cause symptoms, some can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, frequent urination, bloating, or difficulties with fertility.
Understanding treatment options is important because fibroids do not always require surgery, and the right approach depends on a woman’s age, overall health, size of the fibroids, and future pregnancy plans. Let’s break down how fibroids are treated today and why hospitals like Continental Hospitals in Hyderabad are equipped to provide comprehensive care.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Fibroids, also called leiomyomas or myomas, are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue. They grow inside the uterus wall, on its surface, or within the uterine cavity. Though they are not cancerous, they can impact quality of life and, in some cases, reproductive health.
Some women live with fibroids without any noticeable symptoms, while others may experience:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Frequent urination due to pressure on the bladder
- Constipation or bloating
- Back or leg pain
- Difficulty conceiving or maintaining a pregnancy
Because symptoms vary widely, treatment also differs from person to person.
Do All Fibroids Need Treatment?
Not always. Many fibroids are small and do not cause discomfort. In such cases, doctors recommend watchful waiting, which means monitoring the fibroid’s size and symptoms over time. Treatment usually becomes necessary when fibroids cause heavy bleeding, severe pain, or fertility problems.
Modern Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids
1. Lifestyle and Medical Management
For women with mild symptoms, doctors may start with non-surgical treatments. These include:
- Medications for symptom relief: Pain relievers for cramps or discomfort.
- Hormonal therapy: Certain medicines can regulate menstrual cycles, reduce heavy bleeding, or shrink fibroids temporarily.
- Iron supplements: If heavy bleeding has caused anemia, iron helps restore healthy blood levels.
Medical management is often the first step, especially for women who are not planning immediate pregnancy.
2. Minimally Invasive Procedures
Advances in medicine have made fibroid treatment less invasive, which means faster recovery and fewer risks compared to traditional surgery.
- Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE): This procedure blocks the blood supply to the fibroid, causing it to shrink. It is highly effective for reducing symptoms like heavy bleeding and pelvic pain.
- Radiofrequency Ablation: Heat energy is used to shrink fibroids. This is usually performed laparoscopically, which means small cuts and faster healing.
- Endometrial Ablation: This technique destroys the lining of the uterus to control heavy bleeding caused by small fibroids inside the cavity.
These methods are often recommended for women who want relief but may not be planning future pregnancies.
3. Surgical Options
For women with larger fibroids or those who want to preserve fertility, surgery may be necessary.
Myomectomy: This is the surgical removal of fibroids while keeping the uterus intact. Myomectomy is often chosen by women who want to have children in the future. It can be performed through open surgery, laparoscopy, or hysteroscopy depending on the location and size of the fibroids.
Hysterectomy: In some cases, especially when fibroids are very large or cause severe symptoms, removing the uterus may be the best solution. A hysterectomy is considered a permanent cure for fibroids but is only recommended when childbearing is not a priority.
Modern surgical techniques allow for less invasive procedures, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery.
4. Advanced Care for Fertility and Pregnancy
Fibroids can sometimes interfere with conception or pregnancy. Treatments like hysteroscopic myomectomy, where fibroids inside the uterine cavity are removed, can improve fertility outcomes.
At Continental Hospitals, fibroid care is closely integrated with fertility specialists in the IVF and Fertility Center, ensuring women receive personalized treatment that supports their reproductive goals.
Choosing the Right Treatment
The best treatment depends on:
- The size and number of fibroids
- Symptoms and their impact on daily life
- Age and overall health
- Future plans for pregnancy
A gynecologist will carefully evaluate these factors before recommending a treatment plan.
Why Choose Continental Hospitals for Fibroid Treatment?
Fibroid care requires more than just medical treatment. It demands expert evaluation, advanced diagnostic tools, and access to both medical and surgical solutions. At Continental Hospitals, Hyderabad, patients benefit from:
Experienced Gynecologists and Surgeons: Specialists with extensive experience in managing fibroids using the latest medical and surgical approaches.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Modern diagnostic imaging and minimally invasive surgical technology for precise and safe treatments.
Integrated Fertility Support: With a dedicated IVF and Fertility Center, women who wish to conceive receive seamless care between gynecologists and fertility experts.
Patient-Centered Approach: Every woman’s treatment plan is personalized, taking into account her health, lifestyle, and reproductive goals.
Comprehensive Women’s Health Services: From routine gynecological checkups to advanced procedures, all aspects of women’s health are addressed under one roof.
Continental Hospitals is committed to offering world-class healthcare so women can manage fibroids with confidence and comfort.
Living Well With Fibroids
Fibroids can seem overwhelming, but the truth is that modern medicine offers multiple solutions to manage them effectively. With the right treatment, women can reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, and, if desired, protect their fertility.
Regular gynecological checkups play a key role in early detection and timely treatment. Lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and a balanced diet may also support better outcomes when managing fibroids.
Conclusion
Uterine fibroids are common, but they do not have to control your life. From medications and minimally invasive procedures to advanced surgeries and fertility-focused care, treatment options today are more effective and safer than ever before.
If you are experiencing heavy periods, pelvic pain, or fertility challenges, it is important to consult a specialist.
At Continental Hospitals, our expert gynecologists and fertility specialists provide advanced care for uterine fibroids and women’s health. Book an appointment today to discuss the best treatment options for you.
