Uterine fibroids, also called leiomyomas or myomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop from the muscular tissue of the uterus. They are common in women of reproductive age and can range from very small growths to large fibroids that significantly affect the size and shape of the uterus. Some women have a single fibroid, while others may develop multiple fibroids.
When symptoms occur, they may include heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, abdominal fullness, painful periods, frequent urination, constipation, lower-back pain, or discomfort during sexual intercourse. In some women, fibroids may also contribute to infertility, recurrent pregnancy problems, or difficulty carrying a pregnancy.
Diagnosis generally involves a detailed medical and gynecological assessment along with imaging such as pelvic ultrasound. Depending on the clinical situation, the doctor may recommend MRI or other investigations to understand the number, size, and precise location of the fibroids and to plan appropriate treatment.
Recovery depends on the type of treatment performed, the size and number of fibroids, the patient’s overall health, and whether the procedure was minimally invasive or open surgery.
Patients undergoing hysteroscopic or minimally invasive procedures may generally return to normal activities sooner than patients undergoing open abdominal surgery. Recovery following a myomectomy or hysterectomy can take several weeks, particularly when an abdominal approach is required.
During recovery, patients may be advised to:
Follow prescribed medications and post-operative instructions.
Attend scheduled follow-up appointments.
Avoid strenuous physical activity until medically cleared.
Maintain adequate hydration and nutrition.
Monitor for unusual bleeding, fever, increasing pain, or other concerning symptoms.
Follow the treating gynecologist’s recommendations regarding return to work and normal activities.
Follow specific guidance regarding sexual activity and pregnancy after treatment.
For women planning pregnancy after fibroid treatment, the treating gynecologist will advise on the appropriate recovery period and when it may be safe to begin trying to conceive.
NICE SkyMed can also help coordinate post-treatment follow-up and communication with the treating medical team, including support after the patient returns home.
Treatment for uterine fibroids is individualized. Not every fibroid requires treatment. If the fibroids are small and do not cause significant symptoms, the gynecologist may recommend regular monitoring.
When symptoms are significant, treatment may include medication, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery. The choice depends on factors such as the patient’s age, symptoms, fibroid characteristics, overall health, and whether she wishes to preserve fertility or the uterus.
A myomectomy is a surgical procedure in which fibroids are removed while preserving the uterus. It may be considered for women who wish to retain their uterus or may want to become pregnant in the future.
Depending on the location and size of the fibroids, myomectomy may be performed through:
Hysteroscopic myomectomy – removal of suitable fibroids through the vagina and cervix without an abdominal incision.
Laparoscopic or robotic myomectomy – minimally invasive removal through small abdominal incisions.
Open abdominal myomectomy – performed through a larger abdominal incision when fibroids are large, numerous, or difficult to remove through minimally invasive techniques.
Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces the blood supply to the fibroid, causing it to shrink over time. It may be an option for selected women who want to avoid major surgery, although its suitability depends on individual circumstances and fertility plans.
Choosing treatment abroad can involve complex decisions involving medical expertise, hospital selection, cost, travel, accommodation, and follow-up care. NICE SkyMed aims to simplify this journey by providing coordinated support throughout the medical treatment process.
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