Uterine Fibroids- Conclusion

Management

Observation-
Regardless of their size, asymptomatic leiomyomas usually can be managed expectantly by annual pelvic exam.

Drug Therapy-
Pain medication for dysmenorrhea (painful periods) include NSAIDS such as Ibuprofen

Hormonal Therapy-
There are a myriad of medications that your doctor can use with the goal of shrinking the leiomyomas by targeting the growth effects of estrogen and progesterone. These include using substances that act similar to or against hormones that are naturally released from your hypothalamus.

Uterine Artery Embolization-
This is an angiographic interventional procedure that delivers polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) microspheres or other particulate emboli into both uterine arteries. Uterine blood flow is therefore obstructed, producing tissue death. Because vessels serving the fibroids have a larger caliber, these microspheres are preferentially directed to the tumors, sparing the surrounding uterine muscle.
Why else does the uterus survive? Because unlike the fibroids, the uterus also gets some blood supply from other smaller blood vessels.

Myomectomy-
Removal of a fibroid from the uterus is an option for women who are having symptoms but who desire to still bear a child in the future. or for those who do not want a hysterectomy. This can be performed in different ways.

*** Note: If the actual cavity of the uterus had to be invaded in order to get the fibroid out, then the woman has to have a cesarean section with her future pregnancy due to the risk of the uterus tearing during the contractions of labor, along that scar.
There is also the risk that the fibroids will return in the future.

Hysterectomy-
Removal of the entire uterus is the definitive and most common surgical treatment for leiomyomas. Hysterectomy can be performed vaginally, through the opened abdomen, or using small ports in the abdominal wall through which the uterus will pass.


Uterine fibroids is a common occurrence among women, with larger numbers in the African American women's population. There are many different types of fibroids, based on their location within and/or on the uterus. They can cause symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pain or discomfort, or even hamper fertility. But what is important to know, is that there are many options for the management of these benign tumors. If you or a loved one have been experiencing symptoms that lead you to suspect uterine fibroids, consult your Gynecologist for further investigation and treatment. Remember, due to risks involved with any surgical procedure, even if you incidentally discover that you have uterine fibroids, as long as the fibroid is not bugging you, don't bug the fibroid!